A robust yet completely natural material, soapstone has an undeniable unique natural beauty. Unlike other natural stones, there is no need to seal durable soapstone, which can withstand just about anything. Indeed, soapstone is one of the most easy-care natural kitchen worktop options there is.
When the slab of soapstone is first cut, the stone’s oxidation process begins. As this happens, your soapstone countertop will start to darken in color slowly. However, many people choose to accelerate this process by treating their soapstone countertop with wax or mineral oil. So, how do you apply mineral oil? How do you keep soapstone clean without damaging it? In addition, how do you polish soapstone countertops? In this post, we will talk about cleaning soapstone countertops, how to polish soapstone, and much more. So, read on to find out how to better care for your soapstone kitchen countertop!
How Can I Clean Oil Off My Soapstone Countertop?
A durable material, you can pretty much throw whatever you want at your soapstone countertop without needing to worry about it cracking or staining. However, oily foods like fish or meat can pose a problem. If you let the oil sit on a soapstone countertop, it can leave a dark shadow on that part of the countertop.
To prevent this problem, we recommend treating your soapstone countertop with mineral oil. Doing this will darken the stone uniformly and protect the countertop against oil stains for years to come. The mineral oil will create a leathery, soap-like texture on your soapstone countertop. This is actually how the stone got its name! However, this texture is irreversible, so only treat your soapstone countertop with mineral oil if you are sure about your decision.
How Do I Treat My Soapstone Countertop?
Want to retain that natural shine? Well, soapstone needs regular treatment with mineral oil as well as cleaning. Every month or so, or whenever you feel your countertop looks dark and dull, rub some mineral oil into your soapstone countertop using some old rags. Soon, your countertop will be good as new.
If it is your first time oiling your soapstone countertop, you will need to make sure that the glues have been set properly so that your countertop is ready to be oiled. Fortunately, this only means waiting until the day after installation. Simply wipe away the dust residue from the installation with a damp sponge and get oiling.
First, pour a large pool of the mineral oil directly from the bottle onto the middle of your soapstone countertop. Then, coat your entire countertop in mineral oil using an old rag. You may like to use a paintbrush for the edges and corners.
When you are done, let the mineral oil sit for about an hour before placing any bowls, toasters, kettles, and such back down on your worktop. That is it.
Since soapstone is non-porous, it will not absorb the oil. Instead, the mineral oil serves as a layer of moisture that ensures even oxidation and darkening of the stone. Because it will not be absorbed, you need to re-apply mineral oil regularly.
However, how often? Some owners of soapstone countertops top up their mineral oil layer once a month, while others prefer to patch areas that have been lightened, like when water splashes around the sink. The choice is yours. However you choose to maintain your soapstone countertop, it will look radiant.
How to Polish Soapstone
Wondering how to polish soapstone countertops? Hold on to the cloth you used when you first oiled your soapstone countertop because this will come in handy for polishing. Do not rinse your cloth. Instead, store it in a plastic bag with traces of the mineral oil still on it. Then, any time your soapstone countertop starts to get dull, or becomes lighter in color, use that cloth to buff it.
What Can I Do About Scratches on My Soapstone Countertop?
Yes, soapstone is a hard-wearing, supple material. However, unfortunately, this softness makes the stone prone to scratches. Even a blunt teaspoon or your fingernails are a potential hazard to the smooth surface of your stunning soapstone countertop. You can check out Caesarstone to learn more about the disadvantages of soapstone so you know exactly what to expect.
What can you do about scratches? Well, sandpaper can lift these scratches off in an instant. Always keep some sandpaper handy for dealing with scratches. You can also touch up scratches with your mineral oilcloth.
Will Heat Damage My Soapstone Countertop?
No. Though it is a natural material, soapstone can deal with heat fine. So, go ahead and let your soapstone countertop’s beauty shine through.
How Can I Remove Wine Stains from My Soapstone Countertop?
Did you know that soapstone is a non-porous stone? Because of this, acidic liquids like vinegar, coffee, fruit juices, and wine cannot stain this stone. So, when the inevitable happens at a kitchen party or during breakfast, simply wipe the liquid up with a cloth or soft sponge, and that is it.
How Can I Keep My Soapstone Countertop Clean?
What about other stains and day-to-day maintenance? What kind of care is appropriate for a soapstone countertop?
As we mentioned earlier, soapstone is a non-porous material. Therefore, it is effortless to keep clean. When you notice dirt building up on it, you need to gently wipe the surface with water or mild soap and a soft sponge.
Should I Wax My Soapstone Countertop?
Some people prefer to wax their soapstone countertop rather than apply mineral oil to it. Is this a good idea?
Wax alternatives are a pretty recent addition to the market, only appearing in the last five years. Therefore, we cannot be confident that these products show results that last. Having said this, from what we have seen, waxed soapstone does seal well, with a longer-lasting finish than you get with mineral oil; and you do not need to top up the coating anywhere near as often. Therefore, although waxing soapstone is relatively new, we recommend it.
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