Soapstone Countertop Care
- Enhance your counter’s natural darkening progression by applying mineral oil to the surface every week or two and rubbing it in thoroughly. ...
- Once the patina is fully developed, apply mineral oil if the countertop begins to look dry to restore luster and sheen. Once or twice a year is usually sufficient.
- Clean soapstone countertops with an all-purpose kitchen cleaner or mild soap and a dishrag.
- While the heat from cookware straight off the stove won’t damage the countertop, if the pan is rough on the bottom, such as a cast iron skillet, it could scratch ...
- Chop and dice food on a cutting board, not on your countertop.
- Minimize chips and dings that do occur by coloring them in with a matching permanent marker and then rubbing mineral oil over the surface.
- Oil and grease can discolor new soapstone, so wipe up spills promptly and, if necessary, rub a bit of acetone (nail polish remover will suffice) on an oil stain to ...
- If your soapstone countertop develops an uneven patina, you can remove it by sanding the entire surface with fine-grit sandpaper, and then applying the mineral oil process described above to ...
- While there are products on the market that claim to seal soapstone against darkening, they cannot penetrate the countertop’s dense surface, so they must be applied once or twice a ...
What are the dangers of mineral oil?
- Do not take mineral oils for more than a week unless your doctor recommends it. ...
- People who are pregnant should avoid mineral oil. ...
- You should not take mineral oil and the drug docusate (Colace, Correctol, Peri-Colac e, Surfakor) or any other stool softener at the same time.
- Inhaling mineral oil is particularly dangerous and can cause pneumonia.
Do I oil my soapstone or not?
You do not need to oil or wax your soapstone countertops. Its inevitable that oils will darken (oxidize) the stone, so you can either remove the oil mark with comet, or just oil the whole counter-top. The choice is yours.
Is mineral oil really harmful?
While most people can use mineral oil without any harmful effects, some people do have allergic reactions to it, including hives, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, and tightness of the chest. Anyone with these symptoms should seek medical care promptly, since they can be dangerous.
Can I use olive oil on soapstone?
Soapstone Oil: Food-Safe Oil. Most oils made for soapstone is mineral oil, a petroleum-based substance. This is not sustainable. But not all food-grade oils work. Additionally, do not use the common household olive oils: they will go rancid and start to smell.
How long does it take for mineral oil to dry on soapstone?
24 hoursTo care for soapstone, we recommend applying dry-wax, mineral or baby oil to the surface of your soapstone 24 hours after it is installed.
Is mineral oil good for soapstone?
If you want to make your soapstone countertop or sink darker, you can simply apply some mineral oil. Periodic application of mineral oil will help it develop a dark patina and enhance the natural aging process of your soapstone. Many customers choose to leave the stone untreated.
How often should you oil soapstone?
When you've got a brand new soapstone countertop, it's worth rubbing it down a day after installation. Before doing so, allow your counter to settle for a day so the silicon can set and dry. After that, you should plan to oil your stone once every month or when your counters start to get too light.
What happens if you don't oil soapstone?
Without oiling, the wear on the stone will be uneven, and the stone will darken more quickly in the areas that get the most wear. This stone is ever evolving, so if you want your countertops to always be a uniform color, soapstone is not the material for you.
What kind of mineral oil do you use for soapstone?
The type of mineral oil you can buy in your local grocery store is just fine. The thin or light weight mineral oil goes on more easily than the heavier or full bodies oils, but they both do the same thing which is coat and enhance the natural color of the stone underneath.
How do you recondition soapstone?
How to Restore a Soapstone SinkClean the soapstone sink with a dishcloth and mild dishwashing liquid. ... Apply mineral oil to the soapstone with a clean, dry cloth. ... Wipe away any excess mineral oil to keep the sink from being slick. ... Rub sandpaper in a circular motion over any deeper scratches, using a medium pressure.More items...
Does soapstone have to be oiled?
While many homeowners choose to oil soapstone to enhance its natural color and movement, this is not necessary.
Does soapstone need to be sealed?
Thanks to its mineral composition and nonporosity, there is no need for soapstone to be sealed to keep moisture, bacteria and food particles from penetrating its surface, as is often required for porous stones such as granite and marble.
Can I use olive oil on soapstone?
Walnut oil is one of these. Despite increased popularity, it does not optimize the look and feel of soapstone, and it's allergenic. Additionally, do not use the common household olive oils: they will go rancid and start to smell.
Can you use vinegar on soapstone?
Avoid using vinegar, citrus, or harsh chemical cleaners on soapstone. Cleaning products containing strong acids are a particularly big no-no. These can actually eat away at the soft stone over time, robbing it of its luster and leaving it vulnerable to serious damage like etching, pitting, or breaking.
Can I use linseed oil on soapstone?
Linseed oil and beeswax will also enhance the deep rich colour of the soapstone countertop. Just allow it to set for a few hours and then wipe it dry. Most of the time you only need to do one application, but if you notice any areas begin to lighten again, there's no harm in applying it a second time.
Can you put hot pans on soapstone?
Soapstone is both chemical resistant and heat resistant, so you can set hot pots and pans directly on soapstone without risk of cracking or scorching. Soapstone is much softer and more prone to scratching than granite or quartz however, so preparing food directly on your soapstone counters could easily scratch it.
What is the best oil to use on soapstone countertops?
Mineral OilMineral Oil and Soapstone To help expedite oxidation of the stone, we recommend that you treat it with mineral oil from time to time. This treatment will keep oxidation uniform across the entire surface.
What do you seal soapstone with?
mineral oilFortunately, it's easy to disguise any small scratches which appear on the surface, and to preserve the luster of soapstone. Simply applying a thin coating of food-grade mineral oil to the stone on a regular basis will maintain its sheen and cover up any imperfections.
Can I use olive oil on soapstone?
Walnut oil is one of these. Despite increased popularity, it does not optimize the look and feel of soapstone, and it's allergenic. Additionally, do not use the common household olive oils: they will go rancid and start to smell.
What can I use on soapstone countertops?
In fact, many people prefer the look of untreated soapstone. Many soapstone suppliers sell oil specially designed for the stone, but common mineral oil purchased at grocery stores and pharmacies can also be used.
How to oil soapstone?
The first oiling of your soapstone will take a bit more elbow grease than follow-up oilings. With a few clean, dry rags at the ready, simply pour the mineral oil directly from the bottle onto the surface of the soapstone, rubbing it on to the entire surface with one of the rags (a small paint brush can be handy for corners). Once you’ve covered the stone with oil, let it sit for a half hour or so. Then just wipe off the excess oil with another clean, dry rag. Remember, mineral oil is just a thin moisture layer that is used to speed up oxidation of the stone. Since the stone doesn’t absorb the oil, over time it will evaporate and need replenishment. Now that you have brought out the character of your soapstone, it’s ready to use.
How to clean soapstone after mineral oil treatment?
You can clean your soapstone after the mineral oil treatment using any household cleanser such as Ajax or Comet. Usually just wiping the soapstone with soap and water works just fine. A soapstone sink will stand up to any mild cleaner. Sink corners can be easily kept clean with the use of a small vegetable brush when needed.
What is mineral oil used for?
Remember, mineral oil is just a thin moisture layer that is used to speed up oxidation of the stone. Since the stone doesn’t absorb the oil, over time it will evaporate and need replenishment. Now that you have brought out the character of your soapstone, it’s ready to use.
How to get rid of scratches on stone?
If you see scratches early on, they are usually just a displacement of mineral oil. Gently rubbing the area with your thumb, or just reapplying a small amount of oil, will eliminate the mark.
What color is soapstone?
Soapstone fresh from the quarry is light gray in color. That rich charcoal color soapstone is known for comes when the stone is exposed to water, grease and oils. These liquids cause the stone to oxidize, which darkens the stone’s color and really brings out its natural beauty. To help expedite oxidation of the stone, ...
Can mineral oil be used on soapstone?
We’ve used and promoted the application of mineral oil for the past 50-60 years, and we’re comfortable with its performance on soapstone surfaces. In the last 5 years, a few manufacturers have brought wax alternatives for mineral oil to the market. We have tested a few of these and have asked our customers to try them also, and we have gotten positive feedback. We have decided to make available Soapstone Sealer from The Real Milk Paint Company. We are mineral oil advocates based on our long experience, but we offer the wax as an alternative for customers who prefer it. We’ll be more inclined to recommend it strongly after a few years of field testing. We’d love to hear your opinion after trying it yourself.
Is soapstone a good surface material?
It’s durable like granite and marble, but it’s more forgiving under stress, soapstone has a tendency to dent rather than chip or crack. Soapstone is recognized by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a suitable surface material for contact with food.
How to darken soapstone?
Sure, you can keep the light gray with creamy, white veins found in nature, or enhance the stone, bringing out its rich darkness. There are two popular methods, both as easy as opening up a container of either mineral oil or wax. When it comes to darkening your soapstone, it’s just a matter of preference. Both create a new, natural look with amazing results. If you choose to wax, a little more elbow grease is necessary, akin to waxing your car. Whichever you choose, be sure the oil is organic and food-safe, and the wax is specifically manufactured for use on natural stone.
What is the magic stone?
It’s been called the magical or super stone. It’s soapstone, the stone with natural distinctive properties. Soapstone countertops will not burn, melt, or because it is non-porous, this stone will not stain. It is one of the heartiest of natural stones, yet run your hand over a soapstone slab, and you’ll experience the velvety touch for which it is named. Soapstone is easy to clean with soap and water and will last for years to come.
Can soapstone be cut?
With slabs as tough and as durable as granite and marble, soapstone is also invulnerable to acids and chemicals. Acidic foods and cleaning products will not harm your soapstone. Nonetheless, soapstone does have its kryptonite. A very soft stone, soapstone will scratch, so cutting on this kitchen countertop surface is taboo. It’s still a stone you want in your inventory so you have more options to show in your slab yard.
Is soapstone a natural stone?
Soapstone is not the most popular natural stone but it is a good one to add to your container when looking for stones to add to your inventory. Customers still enjoy looking at a variety of stones when visiting your slab yard.
Can soapstone be used as a vanity top?
Apply soapstone to your shower walls and incorporate as tub surrounds. Soapstone is perfect as a bathroom vanity top since it is resistant to chemically-based bath products. Even if cut from the same slab as your kitchen countertops, soapstone’s makeup allows you to alter the degree of darkness after installation. It’s more of that soapstone magic coming into play.
Is soapstone a slip resistant tile?
As a floor tile, slip-resistant soapstone is popping up in mud rooms across the country.
Is soapstone safe for kitchen countertops?
Enjoy both the beauty and safety of a soapstone kitchen countertop. Its non-poro us quality allows the Food and Drug Administration to recognize soapstone as a food-safe surface. Discover its splendor as a backsplash. But, because it scratches easily, we only recommend you install this in low traffic areas of the kitchen.
How to clean soapstone?
For regular cleaning, the best method is: Put a few drops of dish soap into a bucket of warm water.
What to use to clean soapstone countertops?
One of the most common recommendations for cleaning soapstone countertops is to use mineral oil on them. While a lot of people use this method, it will almost immediately cause your soapstone countertops to darken.
What is soapstone used for?
Properties of Soapstone. The properties of soapstone make it a popular choice for countertops. Soapstone primarily consists of the mineral talc, which has a unique texture. It is nonporous and heat resistant, which makes it ideal for kitchen countertops where heat is often present. It’s also low maintenance, making it a great choice ...
Why is soapstone used for countertops?
They’re increasingly becoming a popular choice for home countertops because of their low maintenance, beautiful appearance, heat resistance and unique texture. Use these cleaning tips to keep your soapstone countertops looking good for years to come.
What minerals are in soapstone?
Other minerals in soapstone include amphiboles, carbonites, chlorites, micas, and pyroxenes. It occurs naturally in a variety of colors, including gray, brown, and greenish and bluish tinges, although all soapstone tends to darken with use. Its silky smooth appearance and soap-like texture earns soapstone its name.
How to clean soap off of countertop?
Rinse the sponge or use a clean cloth to wipe any excess soap from the countertop.
Can you use simplecoat on soapstone?
It won’t cause your soapstone countertops to become dark and discolored the way mineral oil will, and it won’t leave a greasy residue on your countertops. Best of all, SimpleCoat can be used on a variety of other surfaces in your home , including stone, tile, and stainless steel.
What is soapstone used for?
Soapstone is a fabulous counter surface (especially in kitchens) thanks to its: 1 Ability to retain/withstand heat. That’s why it’s so often used for wood burning stoves, pizza ovens, and hearth surrounds. You can put a hot skillet directly on a soapstone counter. 2 Imperviousness, i.e. non-porousness and therefore natural stain resistance and anti-bacterial qualities. No need for a sealer! And unlike marble, no worries about etching with acidic liquids or cleaners here. 3 Durability. Soapstone can last centuries, but because it is softer stone, it has the tendency to scratch and chip more easily on the edges. You have to be ok with a little patina, but scratches can be buffed out with fine sand paper.
Where is soapstone found?
While soapstone was historically quarried in the Appalachian Mountains, particularly in Vermont, very little is left. Most soapstone now sold in the United States is imported, largely from Brazil. Soapstone is a fabulous counter surface (especially in kitchens) thanks to its: Ability to retain/withstand heat.
Why does soapstone turn wet?
Over years, the oils in your hands and the natural oxidization process will cause soapstone to darken to that “wet” color. And it will do so unevenly, based upon wear and use. But again, that takes YEARS.
What color is soapstone?
Soapstone comes in various shades of grey, blue grey, and green grey. In its natural state, all of those “greys” will be fairly light in color — i.e. hard to tell which way they will veer when darkened by age and oil.
Do soapstones need to be waxed?
Therefore, lots of soapstone companies (including where I got mine) recommend oiling or waxing your counters in order to speed up (AND *EVEN UP*) the oxidization process, like in the below image.
Does soapstone chip easily?
Durability. Soapstone can last centuries, but because it is softer stone, it has the tendency to scratch and chip more easily on the edges. You have to be ok with a little patina, but scratches can be buffed out with fine sand paper. Joan at fortheloveofahouse has one of the best soapstone blog posts out there.
Can you put a hot skillet on soapstone?
You can put a hot skillet directly on a soapstone counter. Imperviousness, i.e. non-porousness and therefore natural stain resistance and anti-bacterial qualities. No need for a sealer! And unlike marble, no worries about etching with acidic liquids or cleaners here. Durability.
Physical characteristics
Use
- Once your soapstone is installed and enough time has passed for glues to set up properly (overnight), its time to bring out the natural beauty of the stone with mineral oil. Newly installed stone will have some dust residue, which easily wipes away with a sponge and clean water. When all the dust is gone, your soapstone is ready for its first coat of mineral oil.
Preparation
- The first oiling of your soapstone will take a bit more elbow grease than follow-up oilings. With a few clean, dry rags at the ready, simply pour the mineral oil directly from the bottle onto the surface of the soapstone, rubbing it on to the entire surface with one of the rags (a small paint brush can be handy for corners). Once youve covered the ...
Prognosis
- This treatment and its frequency of application depends on the individual homeowner. Most people find an average of once a month for a year works for them. Some are finished with treatment within a couple of months. Some people treat the surface for a couple of years. A general guide to reapplying the mineral oil is, when water is leaving a noticeable dark spot, oil it …
Prevention
- You can clean your soapstone after the mineral oil treatment using any household cleanser such as Ajax or Comet. Usually just wiping the soapstone with soap and water works just fine. A soapstone sink will stand up to any mild cleaner. Sink corners can be easily kept clean with the use of a small vegetable brush when needed.
Availability
- Soapstone Sealer is available in 4 oz. ($20.74) and 8 oz. ($33.49) sizes, with coverage at 50 sq. ft./4 oz. Shipping is free.
Quotes
- As we have been since 1856, well be here to assist you or your grandchildren with any soapstone care questions they may have.