CLARK'S Soapstone and Concrete Wax, 32 oz, Orange Lemon: what it does

CLARK'S Natural Soapstone and Concrete Wax is a wax-based finish for stone and wood countertops. It is made for soapstone, slate, concrete and butcher block, where a thin layer of wax is used to protect the surface and bring out an even, deeper tone. The 32 oz tub has an orange and lemon scent.

What it is made from

CLARK'S describes the formula as a blend of beeswax, carnauba wax, mineral oil, lemon oil and orange oil. Beeswax is a soft wax that spreads easily, and carnauba is a much harder plant wax that is common in polishes because it forms a tougher layer. CLARK'S says this version has more carnauba and beeswax than before, and that it forms a non-greasy barrier. The mineral oil keeps the paste workable, and the citrus oils give the scent. The brand describes the ingredients as food grade, saying it is made for food preparation surfaces. Follow the label's directions for use.

Which surfaces it suits

The listing names soapstone, slate, concrete countertops and butcher block countertops. These are porous or semi-porous materials that can pick up water rings, oil and stains. A wax layer sits on and just into the surface and resists liquid. CLARK'S says it gives surfaces a uniform patina, the soft, even look that builds up with regular care.

For any finish, it is sensible to test on a small, hidden patch first, since stone and sealed concrete differ.

How it is applied

The method is simple, according to the brand:

1. Rub the wax onto a clean, dry countertop.
2. Let it absorb.
3. Buff off any excess.

CLARK'S also sells an applicator and buffing pads designed for the job, which can make working over a big area easier. A clean cloth works in the same way for small areas. Wax generally needs reapplying from time to time as the surface wears, so how often depends on use.

Size

The tub holds 32 oz (about 0.9 kg of product by volume-weight labelling, so check the label) and weighs 1.6 lb with its packaging, measuring about 5 × 5 × 4 inches. CLARK'S positions it for larger countertops and surfaces. A kitchen island or long counter may take a good part of a tub, depending on how thinly you apply it.

Support

The brand says its customer care team responds to every email.

What to check before you buy

• Your surface: confirm that wax is the right finish for your material and its current sealer. Some stone and concrete are already sealed with a product that wax may not bond to.
• Scent: this is an orange lemon scent, so consider it if you or others in the home are scent-sensitive.
• Food contact: CLARK'S calls it food grade, but read the label and follow its directions.
• Area: estimate how much counter you need to cover.
• Tools: decide whether you want the separate applicator and buffing pads.
• Test first: try a hidden corner to check the colour and finish.

The short version

• A beeswax, carnauba and mineral oil wax with lemon and orange oils.
• For soapstone, slate, concrete and butcher block countertops.
• Rub on, let absorb, buff off the excess.
• 32 oz tub with an orange lemon scent.

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