Slate coasters are a beautiful and functional addition to any home. Their natural, rugged texture and dark, elegant appearance make them a favorite for protecting surfaces from water rings, heat, and scratches. But like any natural material, slate requires a little care to keep it looking its best over time.
Whether you’re using your coasters daily or just on special occasions, learning how to properly clean and maintain them will help extend their life and preserve their appearance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your slate coasters.
What is Slate?
Slate is a fine-grained, metamorphic rock formed from clay or volcanic ash. It’s known for being durable, resistant to moisture, and uniquely textured. These characteristics make it perfect for use as coasters, trays, or decorative pieces.
But as a natural stone, slate is also porous. That means it can absorb liquids and oils if not properly sealed or maintained. Slate also has a tendency to develop scratches or chips if handled roughly, so gentle care is essential.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Slate Coasters
Cleaning slate coasters is relatively easy and doesn’t require any harsh chemicals or expensive tools. Here’s a simple step-by-step routine:
1. Daily Cleaning
For regular use, cleaning your coasters is quick and easy:
Materials Needed:
Soft cloth or sponge
Warm water
Mild dish soap (optional)
Instructions:
Dampen a soft cloth or sponge with warm water.
Wipe down the surface of the coaster to remove any dust, residue, or rings.
For greasy spots or sticky spills, add a tiny drop of mild dish soap.
Wipe again with clean water to remove any soap residue.
Dry thoroughly with a clean towel or allow it to air dry.
2. Removing Stains
Over time, especially if your coasters aren’t sealed, they may develop stains from beverages like coffee, wine, or soda.
Materials Needed:
Baking soda
Water
Soft brush or cloth
Instructions:
Mix baking soda and a small amount of water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the stained area.
Gently scrub using a soft brush or cloth (avoid anything abrasive).
Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.
Repeat as needed until the stain fades. For more stubborn stains, a specialty slate cleaner may help.
Sealing Your Slate Coasters
One of the best ways to preserve your slate coasters is by sealing them. A slate sealant provides a protective layer that repels moisture, prevents stains, and enhances the stone’s natural color.
1. When to Seal
If your coasters were not pre-sealed when you bought them.
If they’ve started absorbing liquids or show signs of discoloration.
Every 6–12 months, depending on use.
2. Choosing a Sealer
There are two main types of slate sealers:
Penetrating sealers: Soak into the stone and protect it from within, keeping the natural matte look.
Enhancing sealers: Provide protection while deepening the stone’s color, often leaving a slight sheen.
Choose based on your aesthetic preferences and how much protection you need.
3. How to Apply
Clean the slate thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Use a clean, soft cloth or brush to apply a thin layer of sealer evenly.
Allow the sealer to soak in and dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually 24 hours).
Wipe off any excess and buff lightly for a natural finish.
Always test a small area first to ensure the finish meets your expectations.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Slate is strong but not invincible. Here are a few things to avoid when cleaning or maintaining your coasters:
1. Don’t Use Vinegar or Harsh Cleaners
Acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach can damage the slate surface and strip away any protective sealant.
2. Avoid Abrasive Scrubbing Tools
Steel wool, rough sponges, or scrub brushes can scratch the surface and leave your slate looking dull.
3. Don’t Soak Slate for Long Periods
Slate is water-resistant but not waterproof. Prolonged soaking can cause it to absorb water, leading to stains or cracks.
4. Be Careful With Dropping
Although slate is dense and sturdy, it can chip or crack if dropped on a hard surface.
Enhancing the Appearance
If your coasters start looking dull over time, here are a few tips to revive them:
1. Mineral Oil Polish
Rubbing a small amount of mineral oil or food-safe stone oil onto the surface can refresh the slate’s natural color and give it a rich, dark finish.
Apply with a soft cloth.
Let it sit for a few minutes.
Buff off the excess with a dry cloth.
Repeat every few months or as needed.
2. Buffing for Shine
Some people prefer their coasters to have a bit of sheen. After sealing or oiling, you can lightly buff the surface to bring out a soft glow.
Storage and Longevity Tips
Taking care of your slate coasters also means knowing how to store them:
Keep them dry: Store in a dry location to prevent moisture build-up.
Stack with care: Use felt pads or paper towels between each coaster to avoid scratching.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Keep them away from heat sources or freezing environments, as extreme temperature changes can cause cracks.
Storage and Longevity Tips
Slate coasters are built to last, but how you store and handle them can make a big difference in their appearance and durability over time. Since slate is a natural material, it benefits from a little extra attention to ensure it remains in great condition for years to come.
Here are some practical tips for storing your slate coasters and extending their lifespan:
1. Keep Them Dry
Moisture is one of slate’s biggest enemies. Even though slate is water-resistant, it’s still porous and can absorb liquid if left in a damp environment.
After Cleaning: Always dry your coasters thoroughly before putting them away.
Storage Area: Store in a cool, dry place—avoid areas like damp basements or cupboards near sinks or dishwashers.
2. Stack with Protection
If you’re stacking your coasters, especially if they’re square with sharp edges, consider adding a protective layer between each one:
Use felt pads, soft cloth, or paper towels between each coaster.
This prevents scratches and chipping from direct contact, especially if they get bumped or shifted
Conclusion
Slate coasters are a timeless and stylish way to protect your furniture and elevate your décor. With minimal effort—regular cleaning, occasional sealing, and mindful handling—you can keep your coasters looking pristine for years to come.
The natural charm of slate lies in its imperfect texture and earthy tones. By taking good care of it, you’re not only maintaining a household item—you’re preserving a little piece of nature’s artistry.
So the next time you rest a mug or a wine glass on your slate, you can enjoy not just the drink, but also the beauty of a well-kept, natural stone surface.
