Originally published on greenmountainsoapstone.com

Taking care of soapstone is simple.

Treated

We recommend applying a light coat of Soapstone Enhancer or Mineral Oil to all sinks and countertops upon installation. GMS Soapstone Enhancer and GMS Mineral Oil both enhance the inherent natural veining characteristics and crystallization detail of the stone.

Versatility of finish is one of the great pluses of soapstone. Not everyone chooses to color enhance their soapstone. Some homeowners love the natural, untreated soft-gray look. Others choose to bring out the color with GMS Soapstone Enhancer or Mineral Oil. Some treat it weekly, others monthly and some treat only when company is coming. However, when treating with mineral oil, the more often you treat after installation, the sooner you will not have to do it as often.

If your soapstone becomes scratched, follow the easy restoration instructions below:

STEP 1 – Sanding Scratches
Light scratches will disappear with a direct dab
of GMS Mineral Oil or GMS Soapstone Enhancer.
To permanently remove a deeper scratch, apply medium pressure to the scratched area with
an 80 grit sanding sponge. The deeper the scratch, the more sanding will be needed.

Untreated

STEP 2 – Oiling or Enhancing
After the scratch has been sanded out, apply a light coat of GMS Mineral Oil or GMS Soapstone Enhancer to the sanded area. The mineral oil application should be repeated 2-3 times over a 2-3 day period until the sanded area matches the coloration of the rest of the stone. GMS Soapstone Enhancer should be applied twice. The second application should be about 24 hours after the first.

Returned to its former beauty… To maintain your soapstone use a damp cloth or sponge with cleanser for cleanings when needed. Oiling will enhance the luster and color of the stone, and restore that brand new look. Subsequent coats should be re-applied as you see fit.