Mineral oil is not comparable to vegetable oils. It is derived from petroleum and does not dry once applied to wood. It offers very little protection that will not last long, hence the need to apply it every week. It is better to use wood oils such as linseed oil, tung oil, or hemp oil, which are also drying oils and harden upon contact with air, just like varnishes.

Unlike these vegetable oils, mineral oil lodges in the wood fiber and remains oily for a while before gradually disappearing with the maintenance of the treated surface. As it disappears quickly, it does not provide effective protection against liquids.