Soapstone Wax and Soapstone Oil: How should you be using them?

Soapstone Wax and Soapstone Oil: How should you be using them?

Busy homeowners love soapstone for its beauty, heat resistance, and non-porous surface, making it ideal for cleaning and quick cooking.

But one of the top questions we hear is: should I use soapstone oil or wax on my countertops and tiles? Both treatments enhance the stone’s appearance and patina but differ in application, durability, and effect on the stone’s surface.

Soapstone Oil: Traditional Treatment for Enhancing Color

What is Soapstone Oil? Soapstone oil is a 100% organic natural oil that enhances the stone’s natural darkening process (or patina). Soapstone in its raw, untreated state is typically dark to light gray with veining, but applying oil brings out its rich, deep hues of charcoal, black, or green hews.

How to Apply Soapstone Oil

1. Clean the Surface – Wipe the soapstone with a cloth to remove dust or debris.
2. Apply a Small Amount of Oil – Using a lint-free cloth and a circular motion, apply a thin layer of oil to cover the entire surface of the stone.
3. Buff the Surface – Wipe away excess oil with a clean, dry cloth until the surface feels smooth and dry.
4. Repeat as Needed – Initially, you should reapply once consistently for one week daily to establish an even patina. Over time, a refresh every few months is sufficient.

Why you should be using soapstone oil:

·         Enhances natural color and deepens the patina

·         Easy to apply and buff

·         Great for countertops that get frequent use

Soapstone Wax: Longer-Lasting Protection with a Matte Finish

What is Soapstone Wax? Soapstone wax is a blend of 100% organic natural Carnauba wax and oils, formulated to provide a more durable, longer-lasting patina

How to Apply Soapstone Wax

1. Clean the Surface – Just like with oil, start with a dust-free, dry surface.
2. Apply the Wax – Using a soft cloth or sponge, spread a small amount of wax over the soapstone in a circular motion. This will take more effort than the oil because the wax is obviously thicker.
3. Buff to a Smooth Finish – Using a clean, dry cloth, buff the waxed surface to remove any excess and create a consistent finish.
4. Reapply as Needed – Most surfaces require waxing every 4-6 months, much less often than oiling.

Pros of Using Soapstone Wax

·         Initially, the wax will age or patina faster, then continue to treat with oil

·         Creates a natural matte finish

Do you need soapstone wax or oil?

Soapstone wax will most likely be applied by your soapstone installer (especially if you work with Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops), and then you can maintain the patina consistently and easily with Soapstone Oil.

If you haven’t kept up with soapstone oil and your countertops have started to lighten, you can refresh with the wax, then continue with oil.

Both are food-safe and keep your soapstone looking brand new!