How to Care for Soapstone Countertops

Of all the countertop material choices on the market, soapstone tends to be overlooked despite being an excellent option.

Soapstone is a metamorphic rock that differs from granite and marble in the sense that its formation doesn’t involve melting at high temperatures. Instead, the tectonic process known as subduction compresses mineral talc rich in magnesium into layers of stone. The name of this rock alludes to its surface texture, which may feel soft and slightly soapy.

Ancient sculptors in Egypt preferred soapstone because it’s easy to carve, but large blocks and slabs were also used extensively for the construction of churches in the Middle Ages. Soapstone was quite popular among wood stove manufacturers in New England, and it has seen a slight resurgence in the kitchen as a countertop material.Here's what you need to know about caring for soapstone countertops.

Be Careful of Scratches

The durability of soapstone is mostly structural, but at the surface level, it’s not as hard as other types of natural stone. Keep this in mind when cutting meats or chopping vegetables in the kitchen. Always use a cutting board and never use steel wool or other harsh scrubbing pads to clean the surface.

Apply Mineral Oil

Soapstone is the only stone that needs to be subject to mineral oil treatments. You’d never apply oily substances to metamorphic rock such as limestone, granite, or marble. The soapstone extracted from quarries in Vermont is usually beige or grey, but it naturally turns darker and more elegant over time. To ensure the darkening process is even all around the slab, you’ll need to apply a coat of mineral oil or a mixture of beeswax and linseed oil. The latter is preferred because it brings out the tones and hues of the stone, and you only need to do it once a year. Use the Right Cleaning Product

The highly porous and soft surface of soapstone requires a gentle soapstone and granite cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner®, which doesn’t contain phosphates or harsh chemicals. You can use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to wipedownthe countertop when cleaning.

Seal and Polish the Countertops

You can ask contractors to apply oil and the first coat of sealant as the final step of the installation process.From this point on, you can apply coats of Granite Gold Sealer®whenever necessary to protect the porous surface of your countertops. You can also keep your soapstone shiny with Granite Gold Polish®, which should be applied 24 hours after sealant has been applied.

For more information on caring for soapstone countertops, reach out to Granite Gold®. All of our products are also safe to use on all other types of natural stone, including granite, marble, and travertine. Call us today at 1-800-475-STONE (7866), and use our Store Locator to find a store near you that carries Granite Gold® brand products.