It is more work to maintain soapstone than granite, so your friends are right about that. But that doesn't mean it is a lot of work. We LOVE our soapstone for many reasons, and we do not find the maintenance the least bit onerous. But we do wax it (a 10 minute job, totally optional) approx. every three months in order to maintain a dark, even finish. And in the first year we waxed it more often than that. Otherwise we find it to be maintenance free. And you don't have to reseal it the way many granites require.

What product do you use to wax your soapstone. We have only used oil, but have areas that need some sprucing up after 2 years.

We use Dorado Soapstone Wax, which was recommended by the stone fabricators who installed our counters. It has the same effect as oil, but seems to last a bit longer. You can google it and order it on line.

Thank you. We'll try it. We also love our soapstone in the kitchen. I think the maintenance is minimal. I have granite in 2 bathrooms and have a harder time keeping it looking glossy. For both granite and soapstone, water around sinks needs to be kept wiped up as it can leave white deposit marks. I am not sure how to get rid of these around my kitchen sink. I haven't tried limestone removal products as they may not be safe to use on soapstone. Anyone else have a solution?

I've always found that the white marks around our soapstone sink area disappear with the waxing. The water simply wears off the oil/wax finish faster around the sink than in other areas, making the lighter color of the natural soapstone emerge. Sometimes I spot wax just around the back of the sink near the faucets (a 30 second job) where the most spashing occurs. But I don't know whether the white marks I am talking about are the same as yours. But since soapstone is non-porous and impervious to chemicals (thus its traditional use in chemistry labs), my guess is that the limestone removal product would be safe on it. But best to check first, I suppose.

Thanks.

Thank you so much everyone!!

We installed a soapstone farm sink, "Green Mountain" two years ago. I LOVE it. Soft, smooth, cool feel. Oil with baby oil once in awhile. Looks lovely, aging gracefully.