Kuksa and how do I take care of my wooden kuksa?

The value of the untreated kuksa and proper care

First of all, an untreated kuksa is not a cost-saving measure by the manufacturer because they wanted to avoid using special chemicals to impregnate the wood. An untreated kuksa cup shows, first of all, the high quality of the craftsmanship, as well as the carefully selected wood (preferably birch wood) that has been stored for years. And secondly, it allows you as the user to decide what is important to you, what you need and what you want.

Thoughts on caring for your kuksa

And now some thoughts on why and how you can care for your kuksa.

Treatment before first use

All objects made of high-quality dry wood that come into contact with liquids are treated before first use to prevent moisture from penetrating. Otherwise, it would soon become unusable and crack. It does not matter whether it is a wooden boat or a kuksa.
Since wood is a living material, its full beauty should be shown. Wood sealed with varnish, regardless of the type, chemical or ecological varnish, causes the naturalness of the wood to disappear.

kuksa care – Recommended oil treatment

To use a kuksa as a drinking vessel or food bowl, it is sufficient to treat it with ordinary commercially available refined vegetable cooking oil before the first use and to do this until all the wood fibers are saturated with oil. This takes some time.
Paraffin oil can also be used, but in our opinion this should not be used as it is a mineral oil-based oil. There are controversial opinions about the use of paraffins, including the opinion that these substances are harmless to health. Other professional opinions, however, believe that there may be significant health risks. The magazine Öko test Ratgeber (No. 1, 2001, p. 121) states: “Paraffins are a collective term for countless artificial substances derived from petroleum… impair natural regulatory mechanisms… can accumulate in the liver, kidneys and lymph nodes.”

Quality and feel

So always remember when you buy a kuksa, you can feel the quality when you touch the wood. This is not to be confused with touching a varnished rubber tree kuksa.

Applies to all wooden objects

And what applies to a kuksa also applies to all other wooden objects, such as wooden bowls, wooden spoons and anything else that comes into contact with liquids.

A kuksa with character and soul

An untreated kuksa is more than just a utility item – it is a piece of nature and craftsmanship that, with the right care, can accompany you for many years. By treating and caring for the wood in a conscious way, you preserve not only its function but also its natural beauty and unique character.
Over time, your kuksa will develop its own patina and become even more beautiful – shaped by use, experiences and memories.
So choose consciously.