What not to use on soapstone?

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. Bleach and chlorine cleaners dull the natural luster after a few months. Vinegar, lemon, and citric acid cleaners (including most ‘natural’ sprays) are less harsh than they’d be on marble, but they still strip the patina over time. Powders like Comet or Ajax leave fine scratches you’ll see when light hits the surface at an angle. Steel wool will scratch in one pass. Acetone and paint thinner pull the oils out of the stone, leaving it patchy and dry. Stick with mild dish soap and warm water for daily cleaning.