What is the Best Way to Clean Soapstone 2?
Soapstone counters add a touch of elegance to any kitchen and can stand up to years of heavy use. They are nonporous and do not need to be sealed, unlike marble and granite counters. However, the material is still soft and can be nicked or scratched by abrasive cleaners or tools. Because soapstone is prone to scratches, the use of harsh abrasive products and scouring pads should be avoided. Scratches will naturally oxidize and lighten the surface over time, and minor ones can be buffed out with a fine-grit sandpaper or steel wool. In the case of a deep scratch, you may need to apply mineral oil several times until the natural dark color of the stone is restored.
During the first year of a new installation, it is recommended that you treat your soapstone with a layer of mineral oil. This will increase the oxidation process and help your counters to darken evenly. After that, you can choose to continue treating the soapstone, or leave it untreated and let the stone aging naturally.
Clean your countertops daily with a gentle, mild cleanser and a sponge or rag. Be sure to wash off all areas of your counters, including the edges and corners, so that any dirt or crumbs are removed. Rinse the soapstone and dry it with a towel.
After washing, some countertop stains can remain and will need to be scrubbed with a bit of baking soda or lemon juice mixed with water. Be careful to avoid using abrasive scouring pads or steel wool, which can create small scratches in the counters. Also, never use any abrasive cleaning materials in your sink or dishwasher, as they can damage the surface of your soapstone.
Once the counters have been cleaned and dried, you can begin to oil your soapstone. First, rinse your rag or sponge out with clean water to remove any dust residue left on the surface of the stone. Then, pour a small amount of mineral oil onto the cloth and rub it into the soapstone surface. Be careful not to over-apply the oil, as it will quickly evaporate and require more frequent reapplication.
The regular application of mineral oil helps your counters to oxidize evenly and brings out the beautiful colors of the soapstone. It also helps to mask smudges caused by natural oils that will appear on the counters over time. Although some people prefer to leave their counters untreated and let the natural aging of the soapstone take place, most homeowners choose to continue to oil their surfaces in order to maintain their beauty and cleanliness. Oiling your soapstone is easy and fast, and can be done as often as every two weeks or even less frequently if you like. Be sure to rinse your rag or sponge out well before applying each new coat of oil. If you have any questions about the care or maintenance of your soapstone, please contact us.
