Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone has been used in kitchens for perhaps longer than any other natural stone. It was used in colonial times.

As you may be hoping by now, yes, that does mean it is lower maintenance than other natural stone countertops. Who had time to deal with all the stains that other stones would get if they were used in the kitchen without sealing? Soapstone can be cleaned just by rubbing, and mineral oil can give it a lovely, darker color. However, the fact that mineral oil is absorbed so nicely should also be taken as a warning - oily stains may not be easily cleaned, depending on your slab.

You may have even seen soapstone countertops without realizing it while you were in school. It's a good choice for science classrooms.

Soapstone does still do best with a sealant on it, but it requires application less often. It is also quite heat resistant. In general, you won't damage a soapstone countertop too quickly.

In terms of cost, soapstone is typically not much less than marble.