Care for Your Surfaces Better in the New Year

Care for Your Surfaces Better in the New Year

As we enter a new year, make sure you know how to refresh and revitalize the natural surfaces in your home. Wood, soapstone, and slate add warmth, beauty, and character to any space, and with a little maintenance, they’ll always look their best. Regular care and attention not only extend the life of these natural materials but also enhance their beauty over time. Here’s how you can keep them in prime condition all year long.

Caring for Wood Surfaces

Natural wood surfaces—whether your kitchen counters, cutting boards, or dining table—make your home warm and inviting. However, you want to avoid drying out, scratching, and staining the wood due to improper maintenance. Here’s how to keep your wood surfaces looking beautiful and well-protected:

1. Apply Wood Oil Regularly: Using The Original Wood Oil™️ or The Original Wood Wax™ will help nourish and protect the wood, enhancing its natural grain and bringing out a rich luster. Wood oil or Wood wax prevents the surface from drying out and helps guard against minor spills and stains. Our food-safe blend of natural oils includes Grapeseed Oil, Safflower Oil, and Elderberry Fruit Extract with Carnauba Wax added for the Original Wax to ensure your food preparation surfaces are clean, safe, and 100% organic.
2. Buff for a Smooth Finish: After applying the wood oil or wood wax, use a clean, soft cloth to buff the surface in circular motions. This will help the oil or wax penetrate the wood fibers more effectively, leaving a smooth, polished finish.
3. Avoid Excess Moisture: Wood is naturally porous and can be damaged by excess moisture. Be sure to clean up spills immediately and avoid placing hot or wet items directly on the wood surface to prevent discoloration and warping.
4. Maintain Monthly: Oiling periodically is ideal, wiping with a damp cloth (not wet) will keep the surface looking fresh between oil applications.

If you want to learn more about caring for wood counters, check out this article.

Caring for Soapstone Surfaces

Soapstone is naturally non-porous and anti-bacterial, making it a popular choice for countertops. Its velvety, “soapy” feel and unique color variations give it an elegant and sophisticated appearance. To enhance and protect soapstone, follow these tips:

1. Use Soapstone Oil: Soapstone develops a natural patina over time, but applying The Original Soapstone Oil™️ or Original Soapstone Wax™ can enhance and increase the color/patina change, giving it a deep, rich tone. Our natural organic soapstone oil and soapstone wax is completely food-safe and environmentally friendly, so you can safely use it on kitchen countertops and other surfaces.
2. Apply and Buff the Oil: With a clean, soft cloth, apply The Original Soapstone Oil™ or Original Soapstone Wax™ in a circular motion to the entire countertop. With a second, clean, soft cloth, buff the entire countertop until it feels dry to the touch. This also blends in any small scratches you might see.
3. Routine Maintenance: Soapstone doesn’t require sealing, and regular oiling is optional, depending on the look you desire. We recommend often after the initial installation to speed up the aging process, and then as needed to keep the dark color consistent over the surface.

Learn about removing scratches and restoring soapstone for older countertops in this article.

Caring for Slate Surfaces

Slate is a durable, natural stone with a matte finish, popular for countertops, tabletops, and flooring. Though slate is non-porous throughout, its top layer can absorb some liquids and benefits from a protective treatment to prevent stains and scratches.

1. Use Slate Oil: The Original Slate Oil™️ is crafted to enhance the color and texture of the stone, giving it a refreshed appearance. The oil creates a protective layer that shields against liquids, minor scratches, and stains while bringing out the slate’s natural beauty.
2. Application Tips: Similar to the soapstone technique, apply The Original Slate Oil™ with a clean, soft cloth in a circular motion to the entire surface. With a second, clean, soft cloth, buff the entire countertop until it feels dry to the touch.
3. Regular Maintenance: For slate surfaces, oiling periodically will keep your counters looking pristine and protected for everything life throws at them.

Final Tips for Year-Round Care

1. Avoid Abrasive Sponges: Soapstone and Slate may scratch easily if you use an abrasive sponge on the surface. Always use a soft, clean cloth. Because these are non-porous and anti-bacterial, they can stand up to a harsh cleaner, but you do not need them. Wood should be cleaned often to prevent any bacteria from growing, but make sure the surface does not stay wet for long.
2. Consistency is Key: Regular maintenance, even if minimal, will keep your natural surfaces looking beautiful and prolong their lifespan.