Soapstone sinks are durable and less prone to scratching compared to other materials. However, like any other stone, they can develop minor surface scratches over time with heavy use. These scratches can be easily buffed out or left to blend in with the sink's natural patina.
Disadvantages: Architectural-grade, made-to-order soapstone sinks can cost much more than other sinks. This material's soft nature means it can accumulate nicks and scratches over time too, although those can add to the patina.
Soapstone counters can scratch easily, and they require routine oiling to maintain their appearance. They also come in limited color options and are more expensive than other countertop materials.
The nonporous, stain-resistant properties of soapstone make it ideal for kitchen surfaces. This dense material doesn't harbor bacteria, so you can easily wipe germs and contaminants from your countertop, sink, and backsplash.
It's Durable
Soapstone is one of the densest materials available, making it extremely durable because it's unlikely to chip or crack.
Soapstone does not crack easily
While it may appear soft, soapstone countertops do not crack easily. This is however a problem when it comes to scratches. The softness makes it easily susceptible to scratches but protects it from cracking.
Soapstone is used because it's heat resistant and needs little maintenance.
Soapstone sinks are durable and less prone to scratching compared to other materials. However, like any other stone, they can develop minor surface scratches over time with heavy use.
Usually just wiping the soapstone with soap and water works just fine. A soapstone sink will stand up to any mild cleaner. Sink corners can be easily kept clean with the use of a small vegetable brush when needed.
The most stain-resistant sink is a stainless steel sink. A stainless steel sink is the most durable and low-maintenance kitchen sink as they are resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.
Quartz Countertops are your most durable option for New Stone Countertops. Scratch-Resistant, Chip Resistant, and Stain Resistant without ever having to Seal your Countertops.
"It is a softer material, so it does scratch easier," Carbia says. Homes with children who drop things, or homeowners who prefer cutting straight on the countertop as opposed to using a cutting board, might damage soapstone.
Any cleaner is acceptable for soapstone but keep in mind that the more aggressive the cleaner, the more it will strip off the mineral oil. For daily cleaning we would recommend using a dishwashing liquid (Palmolive, Dove, Joy etc).
Undermount Sinks: They're mounted below the countertop. An undermount bathroom sink exposes the edge of the countertop surface around the sink. With no rim to contend with, undermount models are the easiest to clean.
Replace the broken portion of soapstone to its original position and clamp it in place until the epoxy dries. Mix the powdered scraps of soapstone into the remaining epoxy and use that to seal any visible cracks or chips. Allow the epoxy to dry for the amount of time specified on the label.
If you don't have a coating on your natural stone surfaces but are still worried about disinfecting, regular Clorox Wipes can be used to give your counters a wipe down in a pinch, but don't let them sit directly on the stone!
Therefore, practically any household cleaner can be used to clean soapstone. Unlike most natural stones, soapstone is not damaged by ammonia.
It is a surface phenomenon and is not related to absorption, but mineral oil adsorption! This explains why soapstone is non-porous and therefore does not absorb any liquid, but it is darkened by mineral oil as it adsorbs it on its surface.
Clean & Care Instructions:
1. Allow Soapstone Cooking Surface to cool before handling. 2. Wash with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, or place in dishwasher.
Soapstone is non-porous and, unlike marble and granite, does not need to be sealed. You can purchase our specially formulated Soapstone Care Mineral Oil from our online store. This is a lighter-grade mineral oil, which is easier to apply than standard drugstore mineral oil.
Soapstone is a gorgeous natural surface. When left as-is, it's a light gray slate-like shade. And while soapstone will gradually darken over time, some prefer to have the darker look straight out of the starting gate. By adding oil or wax, the result is a shiny onyx-hued black with a bit more richness.
In general, soapstone offers a good balance between cost, durability, and aesthetic appeal. For homeowners who don't want to pay the cost of quartz countertops but who are interested in the look of soapstone and the benefits of quartz, a soapstone-quartz hybrid may be an option worth considering.
Soapstone surfaces need not be sealed, but we recommend treatment with mineral oil if consistent surface darkening is desired. Without treatment, soapstone will darken in uneven regions around surface areas most frequently used. Leaving the soapstone untreated will develop a patina of age that many people enjoy.
Because it's a natural metamorphic stone, it almost always comes with random veining. The veins of color add a distinctive look. When first quarried, the stone is gray, but it gets darker with age as it begins to oxidize. My soapstone countertops, when wet or oiled, look a dark green.