If you’ve been thinking about remodeling your kitchen, you might have come across soapstone as an alternative to granite or marble for your countertops. Soapstone countertops come in a more limited range of colors than granite, and are softer than other natural stone materials, but they have one major benefit: soapstone countertops are virtually maintenance-free.

Soapstone counters

Soapstone Countertop Cleaning

Soapstone countertops are nonporous, which makes them easy to keep clean. Spills do not soak into the countertops, and do not leave stains. The soapstone may darken when liquid collects, but it will return to its natural color as soon as the liquid evaporates or is wiped up.

Soapstone’s nonporous structure makes it naturally resistant to bacteria. This makes cleaning simple – all you need is mild soap and water. No harsh chemicals or antibacterial cleaners necessary.

Soapstone Countertop Maintenance

Soapstone countertops naturally darken over time. Some homeowners prefer to speed up this process by wiping their countertops with food-grade mineral oil. After 6-10 coats of mineral oil, the soapstone will be permanently darkened and no further treatment is necessary.

Soapstone countertop

Occasionally, soapstone countertops acquire small nicks and grooves that are easily sanded out. Sand nicks using coarse sandpaper in a circular motion until they are almost gone, then switch to finishing sandpaper. Once the nick is gone, treat the area with mineral oil until it matches the surrounding area.

Soapstone Countertop Cost

Soapstone countertops range from $60-$105 per square foot installed, depending on the quality and thickness of soapstone, and the region you live in. If you plan to install soapstone countertops as part of a larger kitchen remodel, ask potential contractors to include them in their quotes. If you plan to replace the countertop alone, look for a company that specializes in architectural soapstone.

Soapstone counter tops

Unlike granite and marble, soapstone is quarried in relatively small (under 7-foot) slabs. If your countertops span more than seven feet, you’ll need a contractor that is skilled in minimizing seams and matching veining.

Once your new soapstone countertops are installed, they will last as long as your house.

About Vince Sandri

Vince Sandri is a content writer and blogger with more than 12 years of experience. His expertise is in creating content related to disaster restoration, including information about preventing and reacting to natural disasters like flooding, water damage, fire and smoke damage, mold growth, storm damage and more.
Vince has been the main contributor to RestorationMasterFinder.com since 2014. Over that time, he has written numerous service pages and blogs for disaster restoration providers featured on RestorationMasterFinder.com. Vince has done extensive research and covered a wide range of topics relating to disaster restoration to help homeowners, business owners, and property managers better protect their property. He understands the problems that disasters like flooding, fire, smoke, and mold can cause as well as the best ways to respond to these issues to limit the damage.
Vince completed his Bachelor of Arts degree at Aurora University and his master’s degree at DePaul University. He has been writing SEO website pages, blogs, and press releases since 2012. Vince is also a musician and can be seen playing in the Chicago, IL area.