Of course, not every job needs a giant carving board. For example, slicing a lime, mincing garlic, or cutting cheese for a snack is faster on a compact board that is easy to grab, wash, and store. That is why small cutting boards for kitchen prep have become a must-have in many U.S. homes, especially in apartments and kitchens with limited counter space.
In this guide, we compared 8 small cutting boards across plastic, wood, bamboo, and wood-fiber composite. As a result, you will find small wooden cutting board options, dishwasher-safe picks, and tiny bar boards for citrus and garnishes. Each review also covers size, material, care needs, and who it suits best.
This is a specification-based editorial review rather than a lab test. However, we also drew on published hands-on testing where available. Since product details and prices change, check the current Amazon listing before you buy.
A small board is ideal for quick prep. Photo: Karola G. via Pexels.
Key Takeaways
- Small cutting boards range from about 5 x 7 inches for bar prep to around 10 x 15 inches for everyday tasks.
- Overall, the OXO Good Grips Utility board is our top pick because it is grippy, light, and dishwasher-safe.
- For a small wooden cutting board, the John Boos 10 x 10 maple and Virginia Boys Kitchens 8 x 12 walnut boards stand out.
- Meanwhile, bamboo sets from Lipper and Berkvee are budget-friendly for fruit, cheese, and garnishes.
- Above all, use a small board as a second surface so raw meat and ready-to-eat foods stay separate.
Quick Picks: Best Small Cutting Boards for Kitchen Use
When you are short on time, this table matches each board to the job it suits best.
| Product | Size | Material | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Utility | About 14.7 x 10.3 in | Plastic | Best overall |
| Epicurean Kitchen Series | 11.5 x 9 in | Wood-fiber composite | Thin, dishwasher-safe board |
| John Boos Chop-N-Slice | 10 x 10 in | Hard maple | Small maple board |
| Virginia Boys Kitchens | 8 x 12 in | Black walnut | Small walnut board |
| Lipper International 849 | Two 6 x 8 in | Bamboo | Budget set |
| Berkvee Small Bamboo Set | 2 small boards | FSC-certified bamboo | Snacks and serving |
| Architec Gripper Barboard | 5 x 7 in | Plastic | Mini prep jobs |
| Barfly Bar Prep Board | 9 x 6 in | Composite | Bar and citrus prep |
What Counts as a Small Cutting Board?
Although there is no official size standard, most small cutting boards for kitchen use still fall into three groups:
| Size Group | Typical Dimensions | Best Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Mini or bar board | 5 x 7 to 6 x 9 in | Citrus, garlic, herbs, garnishes |
| Small | 8 x 10 to 9 x 12 in | Fruit, cheese, a single onion or tomato |
| Small-medium | 10 x 14 to 11 x 15 in | Everyday prep in tight kitchens |
If a board will be your only one, choose the small-medium size. On the other hand, if you already own a large board, a mini or small board makes a handy second surface.
How We Chose These Boards
To begin with, we looked for boards that are widely available on Amazon and suit American home kitchens. Then each board was compared on five points: usable size, material and food safety, stability on the counter, ease of cleaning, and value.
In addition, we referenced hands-on results from America’s Test Kitchen’s small cutting board testing, which named the OXO Good Grips Utility board its top plastic pick. Finally, boards already reviewed in our other cutting board guides were left out, so every pick here is new.
The 8 Best Small Cutting Boards Reviewed
1. OXO Good Grips Plastic Utility Cutting Board
Image: Amazon
Best for: Everyday prep in small kitchens
The OXO Good Grips Utility board is our top pick among small cutting boards. In fact, America’s Test Kitchen named it the best small plastic board after testing. Testers especially liked its light weight, grippy rubber sides, and resistance to warping, cracking, and staining. It also has a juice trench on one side.
At about 14.7 x 10.3 inches, it is roomy enough for a full onion or a few chicken thighs, too. Because it is dishwasher-safe, it also makes a great dedicated board for raw meat.
- Pros: Non-slip edges, dishwasher-safe, light, juice groove
- Cons: Scratches over time, like all plastic boards
Our take: Overall, this is the best all-around small board, especially as a raw-meat board.
2. Epicurean Kitchen Series Cutting Board, 11.5 x 9 Inches
Image: Amazon
Best for: A thin board that goes in the dishwasher
Epicurean boards are made from a wood-fiber composite rather than solid wood. As a result, the material is non-porous, very thin, and resistant to warping. At 11.5 x 9 inches, this board also slides easily into a drawer or dish rack.
However, the composite surface is harder than plastic, so it wears knife edges a bit faster. Its thin profile also makes it lighter and less stable than a thick wood board. Even so, it is a great everyday option if you want wood-like looks with easy cleanup.
- Pros: Thin and light, non-porous, warp-resistant, dishwasher-safe
- Cons: Harder on knives; noisier than wood
Our take: In short, a low-maintenance small board for busy cooks.
3. John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board, 10 x 10 Inches
Image: Amazon
Best for: A small wooden cutting board that lasts
John Boos has made butcher blocks in Effingham, Illinois, since 1887. Today, this 10 x 10-inch Chop-N-Slice board brings that hard maple quality to a compact size. Because maple is dense, close-grained, and knife-friendly, it remains a classic choice for wooden boards.
Moreover, the square shape gives you a surprising amount of usable space for its footprint. Like all wood boards, though, it needs handwashing and regular oiling.
- Pros: Durable hard maple, trusted brand, knife-friendly
- Cons: Handwash only; needs oiling
Our take: Overall, the best small maple board for cooks who want wood.
4. Virginia Boys Kitchens Walnut Cutting Board, 8 x 12 Inches
Image: Amazon
Best for: A premium small wood board made in the USA
According to the listing, Virginia Boys Kitchens makes its walnut boards in the USA from sustainable hardwood. Its 8 x 12-inch size is especially good for slicing fruit, cheese, or bread. It also doubles as an attractive serving board.
Walnut is softer than maple, so it is gentle on knife edges. In addition, its dark color hides stains well. As with all small wood cutting boards, though, handwash it and oil it regularly.
- Pros: Made in USA, knife-friendly walnut, attractive
- Cons: Pricier than bamboo; handwash only
Our take: All in all, a beautiful, practical, gift-worthy board.
5. Lipper International 849 Bamboo Thin Cutting Board Set
Image: Amazon
Best for: Budget-friendly mini boards
This set includes two thin 6 x 8-inch bamboo boards. Because they are light and inexpensive, they also tuck easily into a drawer. For instance, use them for limes, garlic, a few herbs, or a quick snack.
Because they are thin, however, they will not feel as sturdy as a thick wood board. Bamboo is also hard on knife edges, so hone your knives more often. To prevent warping, therefore, handwash and dry them quickly. For more tips, read our guide on whether bamboo cutting boards are safe.
- Pros: Very affordable, two boards, compact
- Cons: Thin; can warp if left wet
Our take: In other words, a cheap, handy pair for small jobs.
6. Berkvee Small FSC-Certified Bamboo Cutting Board Set
Image: Amazon
Best for: Snacks, cheese, and small serving boards
The Berkvee set includes two small, lightweight bamboo boards. According to the listing, the bamboo is FSC-certified, which signals responsible sourcing. These boards work well for fruit, cheese, or bar snacks, and they are also light enough for kids to help with simple prep.
Like other bamboo boards, however, they need handwashing and drying. Before you order, check the current listing for exact dimensions.
- Pros: FSC-certified bamboo, light, two-pack
- Cons: Small surface; bamboo dulls knives faster
Our take: Overall, a responsible-sourcing pick for light tasks.
7. Architec Original Gripper Barboard, 5 x 7 Inches
Image: Amazon
Best for: The smallest prep jobs
At just 5 x 7 inches, this is the tiniest board in our roundup. Specifically, Architec’s patented gripper base uses rubbery feet to keep the board from sliding. In addition, the board is dishwasher-safe. America’s Test Kitchen also recommended the larger Architec Gripper for its durability and grip.
Admittedly, it is too small for most meal prep. Still, it is perfect for cutting a lemon, a jalapeño, or a single clove of garlic without dirtying a big board.
- Pros: Non-slip feet, dishwasher-safe, ultra-compact
- Cons: Very limited surface; one usable side
Our take: In short, a smart add-on board for quick tasks.
8. Barfly Bar Prep Cutting Board, 9 x 6 Inches
Image: Amazon
Best for: Home bars and citrus garnishes
Barfly is a bar equipment brand, and this 9 x 6-inch board is built for slicing citrus wheels, twists, and garnishes. Moreover, it is made from a paper-based composite, which is non-porous and easy to wipe clean.
Naturally, it fits a home bar cart, but it also works in the kitchen for small fruit and herb jobs.
- Pros: Compact, non-porous, made for bar prep
- Cons: Too small for main meal prep
Our take: Above all, ideal if you make cocktails at home.
Small boards are perfect for citrus and garnishes. Photo: Viktoria Slowikowska via Pexels.
Small Cutting Board Comparison Table
| Board | Material | Dishwasher-Safe | Knife-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Utility | Plastic | Yes | High |
| Epicurean Kitchen Series | Composite | Yes | Moderate |
| John Boos Chop-N-Slice | Maple | No | High |
| Virginia Boys Kitchens | Walnut | No | Very high |
| Lipper 849 | Bamboo | No | Moderate |
| Berkvee Set | Bamboo | No | Moderate |
| Architec Gripper Barboard | Plastic | Yes | High |
| Barfly Bar Prep | Composite | Check listing | Moderate |
Small vs. Large Cutting Boards: Which Do You Need?
Many cooks wonder whether small cutting boards for kitchen use can replace a full-size board. In most cases, however, the answer is no. Instead, the two work best as a team.
| Factor | Small Board | Large Board |
|---|---|---|
| Typical size | 5 x 7 to 11 x 15 in | 15 x 20 in and up |
| Storage | Fits in drawers and dish racks | Needs a cabinet or counter spot |
| Cleanup | Quick, often fits the dishwasher | Slower, may not fit the sink |
| Best tasks | Garnishes, snacks, single items | Roasts, batch prep, big meals |
| Stability | Can slide more easily | Stays put thanks to its weight |
For this reason, many households own one large board for big prep days and one or two small boards for daily jobs. Similarly, a small board makes it easy to keep raw meat off your main produce board.
How to Choose the Best Small Cutting Board
Material
Plastic is the easiest material to sanitize, so it is the best choice for raw meat. By contrast, hardwoods like maple and walnut are gentle on knives and look great. Bamboo is affordable, but it is harder on edges. Meanwhile, composite boards are thin and low-maintenance. To learn how wood species compare, see our guide to the best wood for cutting boards.
Size and Thickness
To begin with, pick a size that matches your most common tasks. Then think about thickness: thin boards save space, while thicker boards feel sturdier and resist warping.
Stability
Because they weigh less, small boards slide more easily than big ones. Therefore, look for grip edges or feet. Otherwise, set the board on a damp towel while you cut.
Food Safety
FoodSafety.gov recommends separate boards for raw meat and for foods that will not be cooked. As a result, a small board is an easy way to add that second surface. For more detail, read our guide to preventing cross contamination on cutting boards.
Best Uses for a Small Cutting Board
Unlike a large board, a small board is not just for occasional use. In fact, it shines whenever a large board would be overkill:
- Quick snacks: Slice an apple, cheese, or a sandwich without hauling out a heavy board.
- Garnishes and aromatics: Mince garlic, ginger, or herbs so strong flavors stay off your main board.
- Raw-meat backup: Keep a small plastic board just for trimming chicken or steak.
- Home bar: Cut lemon and lime wedges for drinks right at the bar cart.
- Serving: A small wooden cutting board also doubles as a cheese or charcuterie tray.
- Tiny kitchens and RVs: Compact boards fit in drawers, dish racks, and tight counters.
For example, many cooks keep two or three small cutting boards for kitchen tasks like these, plus one larger board for big prep days. That mix saves time and, at the same time, keeps raw and ready-to-eat foods apart.
How to Care for Small Cutting Boards
Good care keeps any board safe and also helps it last longer, so follow these simple habits:
- Plastic and composite: Wash in hot, soapy water, or use the dishwasher if the maker allows it.
- Wood and bamboo: Handwash, towel-dry, and then stand upright to air-dry. Never soak them.
- Oiling: Treat wood boards about once a month with food-grade mineral oil. For a full routine, see our guide on how to take care of a wooden cutting board.
- Replacement: Swap out any board with deep grooves or cracks that are hard to clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size is a small cutting board?
Most small cutting boards for kitchen use measure between about 5 x 7 inches and 10 x 15 inches. Mini bar boards sit at the low end, while small everyday boards are usually around 8 x 12 inches.
What is the best small cutting board for raw meat?
A dishwasher-safe plastic board, such as the OXO Good Grips Utility, is the most practical choice. That is because it is non-porous and easy to sanitize.
Is a small wooden cutting board worth it?
Yes, especially if you want a knife-friendly surface for fruit, cheese, bread, and herbs. In addition, a small maple or walnut board doubles as a serving board.
Can small bamboo cutting boards go in the dishwasher?
No, because dishwasher heat and moisture can warp bamboo and weaken its glue. Instead, handwash it and dry it right away.
Are small cutting boards safe for raw meat?
Yes, as long as you wash them right after use. However, choose a plastic or composite small board for raw meat, since those materials are easiest to sanitize.
How many small cutting boards should I own?
Generally, most kitchens benefit from one or two. For example, a small plastic board for raw meat and a small wood or bamboo board for produce cover most needs.
Final Thoughts on Small Cutting Boards for Kitchen Prep
In the end, the right small board makes quick jobs faster and cleanup easier. For most people, the OXO Good Grips Utility board is the best all-around choice among small cutting boards for kitchen use. On the other hand, if you prefer wood, the John Boos 10 x 10 maple and Virginia Boys Kitchens 8 x 12 walnut boards are excellent small wooden cutting board picks.
If you are on a budget, the Lipper and Berkvee bamboo sets cover snacks and garnishes. Meanwhile, the Architec and Barfly boards are perfect for the tiniest tasks. Finally, for a bigger picture of board materials and safety, see our guide to the safest and healthiest cutting boards.
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