How to Protect Soapstone

Soapstone is a non-porous, soft stone that is often used for countertops. It is gray in color with hints of dark green and lighter-colored veins shooting through it. Soapstone is resilient and is not affected by chemicals or burns, but since it is such a soft stone it may be prone to scratches. With knowledge on how to care for this type of stone, you can protect it from permanent damage.

Things You'll Need

• Mineral oil or beeswax
• Paper towels or rags
• Cutting board
• Pot holder
• Fine-grit sandpaper

Instructions

1. Apply mineral oil to the countertop when you see the color lighten. Pour a thin line of mineral oil onto the counter and rub it in as far as it will stretch with a rag or paper towel. Take off any excess oil at the end with a new rag. You may apply beeswax instead, leaving it on the counter after application for 10 minutes and then buffing the surface. This will ensure that the countertop darkens evenly and more quickly.

2. Clean the counter immediately after spills. Although the counter is non-porous and food will not stain the counter, acids may take off the mineral oil, creating more work for you. Use water and a mild soap that is not harmful to foods to clean the surface. You may use harsher chemicals, if necessary, but, again, it may strip the surface of the oil.

3. Cut with a cutting board at all times to avoid scratches. Also place a pot holder underneath any pans you set on the counter. Although soapstone is burn proof, if you drag a pot across the top it will scratch the surface.

4. Buff out any deep cuts with a fine-grit sandpaper. Apply mineral oil to the surface afterward to once again even out the finish. Lighter scratches will disappear with a single application of mineral oil.

References

• Soapstone Care and Maintenance
• Soapstone Countertop Care