How to Care for Your Personalised Timber & Engraved Gifts

One of the questions we get asked most often isn't "what should I buy" — it's "how do I look after it once it arrives".

Which makes sense. You've chosen something personal, something with a name or a date engraved into it forever, and you want it to look just as good in ten years as it does the day it turns up on your doorstep. Here's exactly how to do that.

Caring for Timber Boards & Paddles

Our acacia and bamboo boards are built to last a lifetime, but timber is a natural material and it does need a little looking after.

Always hand wash with warm soapy water and a soft cloth — never put timber in the dishwasher. The heat and moisture will cause warping and cracking over time, and it's the single most common way a beautiful board gets ruined.

Dry it immediately after washing with a clean tea towel, then stand it upright to air dry fully before putting it away. Letting a board sit wet on the bench is one of the quickest ways to encourage warping.

Every month or so, condition your board with a food-safe mineral oil or beeswax. This keeps the timber's natural oils topped up, protects the engraving, and keeps that beautiful tiger grain looking rich rather than dry and grey.

Caring for Engraved Glassware

Whiskey glasses, tumblers and decanters should always be hand washed. Dishwasher detergent and high heat can dull the glass and soften the edges of the engraving over time, so a quick hand wash with warm soapy water keeps the detail sharp.

Dry with a soft cloth rather than air drying, which can leave water spots sitting right across the engraved area.

Caring for Keepsake Boxes

Wooden keepsake boxes should be wiped with a dry or barely damp cloth — never soaked or submerged. Keep them out of direct sunlight where possible, as prolonged sun exposure can fade timber over time, and give the exterior an occasional wipe with a food-safe wood conditioner to keep the finish looking fresh.

A Few Things to Avoid

Never soak any engraved or timber piece in water, and never put one through the dishwasher — even on a gentle cycle. Avoid leaving timber pieces in direct sun or near a heat source like an oven or heater, and steer clear of abrasive sponges or harsh chemical cleaners, which can scratch the engraving or strip the timber's finish.

Why It's Worth the Extra Few Minutes

A personalised gift is meant to last — that's the whole point of choosing something engraved over something disposable. A few minutes of care every month is a small price for a piece that's still being used, and still looking beautiful, for years after the occasion that inspired it has passed.

If you're ever unsure how to care for a specific piece, just reach out — we're always happy to help keep your gift looking its best.

Steph x
JS Gift Boutique
Thoughtfully engraved on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria 🌿