How to Treat Antique Soapstone
Soapstone is a durable stone often used for heavy household objects, like sinks, because of its strength, heat-resistance and lasting qualities. Less porous than marble, it was chosen for frequent use because it required little maintenance. Use simple methods, as suggested below, to maintain antique soapstone objects.
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Instructions
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Clean antique soapstone items in stages, from gentle to harsher methods. You can often remove surface dirt with soap and hot water. It is durable enough to use cleanser and 00 grade steel wool or ordinary kitchen steel wool pads.
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Scrape soapstone gently to remove paint splashes or other surface damage. Sand any remaining residue lightly. Some collectors report that soapstone is subject to scratching. You can remove scratches with sanding.
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Rub mineral oil over the surface of soapstone objects frequently, to restore the smooth surface and shine. Soapstone contains talc, which contributes to its soapy-smooth texture but can also result in surface dustiness. Mineral oil addresses this doesn't-feel-quite-clean issue.
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Recognize that most stains evident in a piece of soapstone are part of its natural composition. Soapstone is stain-resistant enough to make it suitable for sinks in chemical laboratories, so visible stains are most likely formed by the rock itself.
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Prepare for darkening with age. This is characteristic of soapstone and best left to occur naturally.
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Handle carved pieces gently, to prevent chipping or fracture. Although soapstone is durable, cuts into the stone weaken it, as would be the case with other carved stone or wood objects.
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