5 Easy Steps on How to Clean Soapstone Countertops

Table Of Contents

1. Understanding Soapstone: Properties and Characteristics
2. Essential Cleaning Supplies for Soapstone Countertops
3. 5 Easy Steps to Clean Soapstone Countertops
4. Dos and Don’ts for Soapstone Maintenance
5. Troubleshooting Common Soapstone Issues
6. When to Seek Professional Cleaning Help

Cleaning soapstone countertops properly is essential to maintaining their distinct appearance and extending their lifespan. Soapstone, with its natural beauty and unique properties, requires specific cleaning methods that differ from other countertop materials. Many homeowners choose soapstone for its heat resistance, non-porous nature, and elegant appearance, but are unsure about the best way to clean and maintain it. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the 5 easy steps on how to clean soapstone countertops effectively, preserving their natural charm while ensuring they remain in pristine condition for years to come.

Whether you’ve recently installed soapstone countertops or have had them for years, understanding the proper cleaning techniques can make a significant difference in their appearance and longevity. At SuperClean SG, we’ve helped countless homeowners maintain their beautiful stone surfaces, and we’re sharing our professional expertise to help you care for your soapstone investment properly.

Understanding Soapstone: Properties and Characteristics

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s important to understand what makes soapstone unique. Soapstone countertops have distinctive properties that influence how they should be cleaned and maintained:

Soapstone is primarily composed of mineral talc, which gives it a soft, soap-like feel (hence the name). This natural stone typically appears in shades of gray with a matte finish and often contains veining patterns that add character. Unlike many other natural stones, soapstone is non-porous, which means it doesn’t absorb liquids and is resistant to staining. This non-porous quality makes it more hygienic and easier to clean than many alternative countertop materials.

Another notable characteristic of soapstone is its natural darkening over time. Fresh soapstone has a lighter appearance, but with use and exposure to oils, it develops a deeper, richer patina. This natural aging process is considered desirable by many homeowners, though it can be controlled through proper maintenance.

Soapstone is also remarkably heat-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for kitchen countertops. You can place hot pots directly on the surface without causing damage – something you can’t do with many other countertop materials. However, despite its durability in some ways, soapstone is relatively soft compared to granite or quartz, making it susceptible to scratches and nicks.

Essential Cleaning Supplies for Soapstone Countertops

Gathering the right cleaning supplies is the first step to properly maintaining your soapstone countertops. Fortunately, you don’t need expensive specialty products – most of what you need is likely already in your home:

Mild dish soap: A gentle, pH-neutral dish soap works perfectly for routine cleaning of soapstone. Harsh chemicals are unnecessary and potentially harmful to the stone’s surface.

Soft cloths: Microfiber cloths or soft cotton rags are ideal for cleaning and drying soapstone without scratching the surface. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or rough materials that might damage the stone.

Mineral oil: Food-grade mineral oil is used to condition the stone and enhance its natural color. This is not a cleaning agent but rather a maintenance product that helps develop and maintain the desirable dark patina of soapstone.

Fine sandpaper: For addressing minor scratches, very fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) can be useful. This should be used sparingly and carefully.

Spray bottle: A clean spray bottle filled with water is convenient for routine cleaning and rinsing.

Soft sponge: A non-abrasive sponge can be helpful for gentle scrubbing when needed.

5 Easy Steps to Clean Soapstone Countertops

Step 1: Clear and Prepare the Surface

Begin the cleaning process by completely clearing your soapstone countertops. Remove all items, appliances, and decorative elements. Use a dry, soft cloth to gently sweep away any loose debris, crumbs, or dust from the surface. This preliminary step ensures that you won’t be rubbing particles into the stone during the cleaning process, which could potentially cause scratches.

Take this opportunity to inspect your countertops for any new scratches, nicks, or areas that might need special attention. Soapstone’s soft nature means it can develop small imperfections with regular use, and identifying these early allows you to address them properly during your maintenance routine.

Step 2: Apply a Gentle Cleaning Solution

For everyday cleaning of soapstone countertops, simplicity is key. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap—just a few drops will suffice. Gently shake the bottle to create a mild soapy solution. Spray this mixture lightly across your countertop surface, focusing on any areas with visible spots or residue.

If you encounter stubborn food residue or dried spills, don’t resort to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Instead, allow the soapy solution to sit on these areas for a minute or two to soften the residue before proceeding to the next step. The non-porous nature of soapstone means that stains remain on the surface rather than penetrating the stone, making them relatively easy to remove with gentle methods.

Step 3: Wipe Clean with a Soft Cloth

Using a soft microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge, gently wipe the soapstone surface in a circular motion. The goal is to clean without applying excessive pressure that could scratch the stone. Pay special attention to areas with visible residue or spots, applying slightly more focused wiping action as needed.

Once you’ve cleaned the entire surface, rinse your cloth thoroughly with clean water. Wipe the countertop again to remove any soap residue. This rinsing step is important as soap film can dull the appearance of your soapstone over time. Follow with a dry, soft cloth to remove any remaining moisture. Soapstone doesn’t harbor bacteria the way porous stones do, but keeping the surface dry helps maintain its appearance.

Step 4: Address Scratches and Imperfections

One of the unique qualities of soapstone countertops is that minor scratches and marks can be remedied at home. For small scratches, very fine sandpaper (220-grit or higher) can be used with extreme care. Gently sand the affected area in the direction of the scratch, using light pressure. Always sand with the grain of the stone rather than against it, and limit sanding to just the affected area.

After addressing scratches, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth to remove any dust particles. Be aware that freshly sanded areas may appear lighter than the surrounding stone, but this difference will diminish after applying mineral oil in the next step and as the stone naturally darkens with age.

Step 5: Apply Mineral Oil for Conditioning and Protection

The final step in how to clean soapstone countertops is applying mineral oil, which isn’t technically cleaning but is an essential maintenance step. Pour a small amount of food-grade mineral oil onto a soft cloth—never apply oil directly to the countertop. Working in sections, apply the oil in a thin, even layer across the entire soapstone surface, using circular motions.

Allow the mineral oil to absorb for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, the oil will darken the stone and enhance its natural color variations. After the waiting period, use a clean, dry cloth to buff the surface, removing any excess oil. The countertop should feel smooth and slightly satiny, not greasy or slick.

This mineral oil application should be done monthly for new soapstone countertops, then can be reduced to once every 2-3 months as the stone ages and develops its natural patina. Regular oiling helps maintain a consistent appearance and offers some protection against everyday wear.

Dos and Don’ts for Soapstone Maintenance

Proper maintenance goes beyond knowing how to clean soapstone countertops. These dos and don’ts will help you preserve the beauty and integrity of your soapstone surfaces for years to come:

Do:

Clean spills promptly, especially acidic substances like lemon juice or tomato sauce. While soapstone is resistant to chemical damage, immediate cleaning maintains its appearance.

Use cutting boards despite soapstone’s durability. Even though the stone is forgiving and scratches can be addressed, prevention is always better than repair.

Apply mineral oil regularly to maintain a consistent appearance, especially in the first year after installation when the patina is developing.

Embrace the natural aging process of soapstone. The darkening and character that develops over time is part of its unique charm and appeal.

Don’t:

Use harsh chemical cleaners, bleach, or abrasive cleaning products. These are unnecessary for soapstone and may damage the surface.

Apply sealants meant for granite or marble. Unlike those stones, soapstone is non-porous and doesn’t require sealing.

Use abrasive scouring pads or steel wool which can create scratches beyond the natural wear pattern.

Worry excessively about minor scratches or variations in appearance—these often add to the character of soapstone and can usually be easily addressed.

Troubleshooting Common Soapstone Issues

Even with proper care, you may occasionally encounter issues with your soapstone countertops. Here are solutions for common problems:

Uneven Color or Patina: If your soapstone is developing an uneven coloration, this is typically due to inconsistent mineral oil application. The solution is to clean the entire surface thoroughly, then apply a fresh coat of mineral oil evenly across all areas. Consistent application over time will help the stone develop a more uniform appearance.

Deeper Scratches: For more pronounced scratches that fine sandpaper won’t address, you may need to use multiple grits of sandpaper, starting with a medium grit (around 150) and working up to a finer grit (220 or higher). Always sand in the direction of the scratch, and follow with mineral oil application to blend the repaired area with the surrounding stone.

Water Spots: Temporary water spots sometimes appear on soapstone, especially on newly installed countertops that haven’t developed a complete patina. These typically disappear on their own as the stone dries. Persistent spots can be addressed with a light application of mineral oil.

Dull Appearance: If your soapstone looks dull or lighter in certain areas, this usually indicates that it’s time for a mineral oil application. Clean the surface thoroughly and apply a fresh coat of oil to restore the stone’s rich appearance.

When to Seek Professional Cleaning Help

While knowing how to clean soapstone countertops at home is essential for routine maintenance, there are situations where professional assistance may be beneficial:

Consider calling in professionals like our team at SuperClean SG’s deep cleaning service when:

Major Damage Occurs: Deep gouges, chips, or cracks in soapstone may require professional restoration techniques beyond DIY methods.

Preparing for Special Events: Before hosting important gatherings or holidays, a professional home cleaning service can ensure your kitchen surfaces, including soapstone countertops, look their absolute best.

Moving Into a New Home: If you’ve purchased a property with existing soapstone countertops that haven’t been properly maintained, our move-in move-out cleaning services can help restore them to their original beauty.

After Renovations: Construction dust and debris can settle on soapstone surfaces and may require thorough professional cleaning. Our post-renovation cleaning service addresses these specific needs.

Time Constraints: If your busy schedule doesn’t allow for regular maintenance, consider our weekly home cleaning services or housekeeping solutions to keep your soapstone and other surfaces in top condition.

Professional cleaners have specialized knowledge about different stone surfaces, including soapstone, and can recommend maintenance schedules and products that will help extend the life and beauty of your countertops.

Conclusion: Maintaining Beautiful Soapstone Countertops

Knowing how to clean soapstone countertops properly is key to preserving their natural beauty and extending their lifespan. The 5 easy steps we’ve outlined—preparing the surface, applying a gentle cleaning solution, wiping clean with a soft cloth, addressing scratches, and conditioning with mineral oil—create a simple but effective maintenance routine that any homeowner can follow.

Remember that soapstone’s unique characteristics, including its non-porous nature and natural darkening process, make it both practical and visually distinctive. By embracing these qualities and following proper cleaning procedures, you’ll enjoy countertops that not only stand up to the demands of a busy kitchen but also develop a rich patina and character over time that can’t be replicated with other materials.

Regular maintenance, as outlined in this guide, will keep your soapstone countertops looking beautiful for decades to come. And when needed, don’t hesitate to call in professional cleaning experts to address more challenging issues or to provide periodic deep cleaning that complements your routine care.