Soapstone is generally more expensive than granite.
Regular sealing is essential for enhanced durability. But they are still more durable than many other natural stone countertops. Soapstone are considered less durable than granite counters because of their soft nature. A granite countertop hardly chipped or cracks, making it a more durable option.
Soapstone is a beautiful, heat-resistant natural stone, but it has notable drawbacks. The primary cons include its softness, which leads to scratching and denting, the need for regular oiling to maintain an even color, limited design options, and a premium price tag.
We have compiled a list of our top-selling and most popular kitchen countertops over the past year.
Yes, you can absolutely put hot pans on soapstone. It is highly heat-resistant and won't scorch, crack, or suffer thermal shock from high temperatures. In fact, it is often used for this exact reason.
Avoid bleach, vinegar, abrasive powders, and steel wool on soapstone. None of these damage the stone instantly, but daily use wears the finish or scratches the soft surface.
Countertops in 2026 are shifting away from sterile, cool grays toward warm, organic, and dramatic looks. The biggest trends prioritize inviting neutrals (creams, beiges, and taupes), sweeping natural veins, and bold, earth-toned statement stones.
In 2026, kitchen color trends are moving away from stark white and cold gray, shifting toward warm, nature-inspired, and earthy tones. The aesthetic of "warm minimalism" dominates, favoring softer hues like creamy white, taupe, mushroom, terracotta, muted olive green, and deep teal-blues.
Vinegar slowly eats away at the protective sealant on granite countertops. Over time, repeated exposure strips this barrier, exposing the stone's porous surface. This leads to a dull, cloudy finish, increased susceptibility to stains, and potential surface pitting.
The Pros of Soapstone
Durability: Soapstone is incredibly durable and resistant to heat, stains, and scratches, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens. Timeless Beauty: With its natural charm and subtle veining, soapstone adds a touch of elegance to any space, enhancing the overall aesthetic.
Sandstone, soapstone, and granite are highly toxic by inhalation because they contain large amounts of free silica. Limestone, containing small amounts of free silica, is less hazardous.
This makes quartz a perfect soapstone alternativeopens in a new tab for your space. Busy families and home cooks will love the durability of quartz countertops that are able to withstand daily use while resisting scratches, chips, and stains. Quartz is also nonabsorbent, so it doesn't harbor bacteria.
Yes, Dawn is safe on soapstone. It's a pH-neutral dish soap, which is exactly what's recommended for daily cleaning. Use a few drops in warm water with a soft cloth, then dry with a towel to prevent water spots.
The healthiest countertops prioritize non-toxic, non-porous, and zero-VOC materials. Top choices include natural stone (like granite and quartzite), stainless steel, and solid wood (butcher block). These do not off-gas harmful chemicals and naturally resist bacterial growth when properly maintained.
Average Granite Counter Cost
The cost of a granite countertop will, of course, depend on the size of your surface area. However, the average granite countertop will cost approximately $50 to $200 per square foot. In addition to the size, the cost will also depend on how thick you want the slab to be.
Yes, you can use Dawn dish soap on granite. Because it is a mild, pH-balanced detergent, it is an excellent and safe choice for everyday cleaning.
You shouldn't use harsh or abrasive cleaners and sponges.
Acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon, lime, and Windex should be avoided, as well as anything with ammonia or bleach. Frequent use of these chemicals will dull and weaken the sealant over time.
Though commonly used as a wound disinfectant, hydrogen peroxide also works wonders on your granite tops. A solution of hydrogen peroxide removes stains without bleaching or discoloring your countertops. Carefully spread this thick paste over your countertops.
In 2026, kitchen color trends are moving away from stark white and cold gray, shifting toward warm, nature-inspired, and earthy tones. The aesthetic of "warm minimalism" dominates, favoring softer hues like creamy white, taupe, mushroom, terracotta, muted olive green, and deep teal-blues.
Dark floors pair particularly well with lighter countertops in large kitchens, where there is enough natural light to prevent the space from feeling heavy. Charcoal tiles, dark-stained engineered wood, or concrete-effect porcelain are often used to create a strong architectural base.
Beige, taupe, and "mushroom" neutrals are officially replacing the cool, sterile grays of the last decade. Designers are leaning into warm khakis, sandy beiges, creamy whites, and earthy tones that add a cozy, comforting energy to spaces.
Cool gray is being replaced by "mushroom" neutrals (warm taupes and greys with subtle green or violet undertones), warm earthy khakis, and soft, natural sages.
The traditional, monolithic built-in kitchen island is being replaced by design solutions that prioritize flexibility, openness, and vintage charm. Top trends include antique worktables, integrated dining tables, and kitchen peninsulas.
White remains the most popular kitchen cabinet color, but design trends are favoring warmer, earthier variations. Top choices include: