A piece, cared for.

Daily

Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Soapstone doesn't attract dust the way wood or ceramic can, but a quick wipe keeps it looking fresh.

Weekly (or as needed)

1. Wipe the surface with a soft cloth lightly dampened with warm water.
2. If something has stained or dried on, use a drop of mild dish soap. Wipe again with a clean damp cloth to rinse.
3. Dry immediately with a soft cloth.

What to avoid

• No abrasive sponges or scouring pads. Soapstone is soft enough to scratch.
• No bleach, ammonia, or all-purpose sprays. Mild dish soap and water is all you need.
• No dishwasher. Heat and pressure stress the natural seal.
• Avoid prolonged direct sunlight. The cream finish can subtly lighten over years of intense exposure.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes. Don't pour boiling water into a piece that's been chilled (or vice versa).

Using vases with fresh stems

The cream and grey-finished pieces are sealed and water-safe for fresh-cut stems. For long-term peace of mind, especially with stems that drink heavily (eucalyptus, tulips), drop a small glass insert inside. Empty and dry between arrangements.

If water is left standing for weeks, you may notice a faint mineral ring inside. This is harmless and comes off with a wipe of mild soap and a soft cloth. The matte black finish behaves identically.

Using trays

The Sahara Tray and Giza Pedestal are designed for daily use — keys, jewelry, small plants, candles, served fruit, cheese boards. Wipe down between uses, especially if anything oily has been on the surface.

For food service: a quick wipe with mild soap and dry immediately. Soapstone is naturally non-reactive and food-safe, but it absorbs slightly more than glass or porcelain, so don't leave wine or vinegar pooled on it for extended periods.

Using The Khartoum Candle vessel

Once your candle has burned through, the vessel becomes its own object. To clean wax residue:

1. Pour boiling water into the vessel and let cool.
2. The wax floats and hardens on top. Lift it out.
3. Wash with mild soap and dry.
4. The vessel can now be used as a small planter, catch-all, or single-stem holder.

Storing

If you're packing a piece away (during a move, or seasonal storage), wrap it in a soft cloth or the original packing paper, and place it where it won't be knocked or stacked under heavy weight. Avoid extreme temperature shifts during storage.

The patina question

Over years of use, soapstone develops a soft, lived-in patina. Subtle darkening at touch points, a slightly warmer tone where it sits in light. This is the stone telling its story.

If you ever want to "reset" a piece — even out an uneven patina, lift a stain — wipe it down with a soft cloth and a tiny amount of mineral oil or food-grade beeswax. Apply, let sit 5 minutes, buff off. Once or twice in a lifetime is enough.

If something happens

Soapstone is tougher than it looks, but it can chip if dropped or struck against a hard surface. Small chips can be lightly sanded by hand with very fine sandpaper (400 grit or higher). For larger damage, email Hello@nilesavannah.com — we may be able to repair, replace, or guide you to a stone restorer.

A piece carved by hand should be cared for by hand. With this much attention, your Nile Savannah piece will outlast trends, moves, and most of your other furniture. That is the point.