Last Updated on March 8, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Whiskey stones can be your handy solution if you want a full flavor profile plus chill whiskey minus the dilution.
But how to clean whiskey stones and maintain them? Should you wash it, or does it even get dirty?
Read on to find out.
3 Easy Steps To Clean Whiskey Stones
1. Wash The Whiskey Stones
Whiskey stones are made from non-porous [1] natural soapstone, requiring little effort in general cleaning after use.
Washing the whiskey stones will prevent bacteria growth and residue buildup. In addition, the flavors absorbed by the stones from the freezer can be removed by baking or soaking.
Using your clean hands, roll the stones back and forth under warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Lather it up and rinse the soap with warm water.
If you use whiskey stones for a few hours, it has absorbed flavors and needs a deep clean. Soaking stones for several hours can help in removing absorbed flavors and residue buildup.
2. Dry Them Off
After cleaning your whiskey stones, dry them off to avoid excess moisture. You can use a soft cloth, clean dish towel, or dry paper towel to dry off the stones.
You can leave your whiskey stone for about an hour in a sunny and dry location to ensure that the stones are completely dry.
You can also air dry the whiskey stones for a few hours to prevent residue from accumulating inside the freezer.
3. Put Them Back In The Freezer
After you remove excess moisture, insert the whiskey stones into a sealable bag or airtight container before putting the stones in the freezer.
The bag or container will help you avoid the absorbed flavor from the freezer and accumulating frost.
Whether you use stainless steel whiskey stones or granite whiskey stones, the bag will keep the stones hygienic and clean for your next drink.
Should You Wash Whiskey Stones?
Yes, you should wash whiskey stones after every use. Washing the whiskey stones helps kill bacteria and remove absorbed flavors.
Most whiskey stones are made from soapstone, but you can wash them, as well as stainless steel whiskey stones and granite whiskey stones, using warm water or cold water and dish soap.
If needed, you can use a soft brush for your beautiful whiskey stones if there are stains to be removed.
Also, after washing the whiskey stones, we highly recommend that you dry them with a paper towel or cloth and then sun dry them for a few hours to remove the moisture.
How To Take Care & Maintain Whiskey Stones
Use Mineral Oil To Clean Them
Mineral oil can be your best friend if you want to maintain whiskey stones. Mineral oils can degrease, shine, clean soapstone, stainless steel, and granite whiskey stones.
If you use whiskey stones daily, we highly recommend using mineral oil every two weeks during the first year. If you use whiskey stones rarely, you can use mineral oil every month.
The mineral oil [2] can improve the oxidation of the stones, but after a year or so, you can do it every three months, depending on the quality of your whiskey stones.
Remove Scratches
Whiskey stones are not scratch-proof, regardless of the materials, so you should avoid scratching them.
Even luxurious stones will look average if there are scratches, and they are not easy to fix.
If you are using metallic whisky stones, it’s better to buy a new set, but if you use stones made from ceramic, granite, and non-porous soapstone, fine sandpaper can help.
Gently scratch the stone using fine sandpaper in a smooth, circular motion, then use a wet sponge to remove the dust. Rub mineral oil until it shines like brand new.
How Do You Store Them?
Whisky stones are designed to be stored inside the freezer and then added to a glass of whiskey, bourbon, and scotch to chill the alcohol without dilution.
The best whiskey stones are made from stainless steel, and you should store them inside an airtight bag or container before placing them inside the freezer.
Can You Reuse Whiskey Stones?
Yes, you can reuse whiskey stones. The whiskey rocks or stones are incredibly usable and can be a sophisticated alternative to ice cubes.
Unlike ice cubes that will keep your drinks chilled but diluted, a whiskey stone can be reused to keep your alcohol cold without altering the taste of the drink.
“Single malt Scotch is often perceived as a spirit drunk neat. That’s not entirely true, as in Scotland, they will often add water and, yes, even ice and whiskey stones.”
– Sean Josephs, Master Taster for Pinhook Bourbon
Can You Put Them In The Dishwasher?
Yes, you can put whiskey stones in the dishwasher. However, we don’t recommend it because whisky stones are easy to clean and do not require much washing time.
You can wash the stone in cold or warm water after every use, and you are good to go.
How Long Do Whisky Stones Last?
Whisky stones are highly reusable and last even for a lifetime. However, it needs proper maintenance and storage to last longer.
You can use whiskey stones to keep distilled spirits, and other alcoholic drinks cool without dilution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can you wash whiskey stones with soap?
Yes, you can wash whiskey stones with soap. Just make sure that you rinse it well and dry it afterward.
The soap will help remove residues and stop bacteria from building up on the stones.
Do whiskey stones expire?
No, whiskey stones do not expire, so you can keep them in the freezer for a long time. You can freeze it for two hours and keep your drinks cool instead of using ice.
Do you put whiskey stones in the freezer in the bag?
Yes, you should put whiskey stones inside the bag before you freeze it. It is to avoid contamination and accumulate frost.
Do whiskey stones need to be washed?
Yes, it is recommended to wash whiskey stones before their initial use and after each use to ensure they are free from any contaminants. Simply rinse them under running water and allow them to air dry before placing them in the freezer for the next round of chilling.
Do you freeze whiskey stones in the bag?
While it’s common to store whiskey stones in the freezer, it is advisable not to freeze them inside the bag they came in. The bag may absorb odors from the freezer, potentially affecting the taste of the stones and, consequently, the whiskey. Instead, place the clean and dry stones in a separate, sealed container or bag before freezing.
What do I do with whiskey stones?
To use whiskey stones, start by washing them and then placing them in the freezer for a few hours until they’re adequately chilled. Once chilled, add the desired number of stones to your glass of whiskey or other spirits.
The stones will cool the drink without diluting it, providing a more enjoyable sipping experience. After use, wash the stones, let them dry, and return them to the freezer for the next occasion.
How long do whisky stones last?
Whiskey stones can last indefinitely, as they are not consumed or altered during use. Their longevity depends on proper care and storage. Regularly washing and freezing the stones between uses ensures they remain clean and ready to chill your drinks effectively.
If properly maintained, whiskey stones can be a durable and reusable accessory for keeping your favorite spirits cool without dilution.
Do you wash whiskey stones before first use?
Yes, it is advisable to wash whiskey stones before their first use. Cleaning them removes any potential dust, debris, or residue accumulated during manufacturing and packaging.
A simple rinse under running water is sufficient, ensuring a clean and hygienic surface for the stones.
Do you put Whisky stones in the fridge?
Whiskey stones should be placed in the freezer, not the fridge, for optimal results. The lower temperature of the freezer allows the stones to absorb and retain coldness more effectively.
Leaving them in the freezer for a few hours ensures they are adequately chilled and ready to cool your drink without dilution.
How do you clean liquor stones?
To clean whiskey stones, rinse them under running water after each use to remove any residues from the beverage. Avoid using soap, as it can absorb into the stones and affect the taste of your drink.
Allow the stones to air dry before returning them to the freezer for the next use. Periodically, you can also sanitize them by soaking in a mixture of water and white vinegar.
Are Whisky stones safe?
Whiskey stones are generally considered safe for use. They are crafted from non-porous and food-grade materials, such as soapstone or stainless steel, which do not react with or alter the taste of the beverage.
However, it is crucial to follow proper care and cleaning instructions. Additionally, whiskey stones do not pose a choking hazard, as they are larger than ice cubes and meant to be placed in the drink, not ingested.
As with any food-grade accessory, it is recommended to use whiskey stones as intended and to replace them if any signs of wear or damage occur.
Do whiskey stones actually work?
Yes, whiskey stones effectively work to chill your drink without diluting it. When properly chilled in the freezer, these stones can lower the temperature of your whiskey or other spirits, providing a refreshing and cool drinking experience.
They maintain the desired serving temperature without compromising the flavor, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy their drinks without the melting effect of traditional ice cubes.
Are whiskey stones better than ice?
Whether whiskey stones are better than ice depends on personal preference. Whiskey stones cool the drink without diluting it, preserving the original flavor profile of the spirit. On the other hand, some argue that ice adds a subtle water element, opening up the flavors as it melts.
The choice between whiskey stones and ice ultimately comes down to individual taste preferences, with some preferring the crisp, undiluted nature of stones, while others enjoy the subtle dilution and evolving taste that ice can bring.
Can you reuse whiskey rocks?
Yes, whiskey stones are reusable. After using them, simply rinse them under running water to remove any residues, allow them to air dry, and then return them to the freezer for the next use.
Whiskey stones are designed for long-term use, providing a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional ice cubes that melt and need constant replenishing.
Can you use whiskey stones in soda?
While whiskey stones are primarily designed for use in alcoholic beverages like whiskey, bourbon, or scotch, there’s no strict rule against using them in soda. However, it’s important to consider that whiskey stones are crafted to complement the flavors of spirits.
Using them in soda may not have the same impact, as the stones are not intended to enhance non-alcoholic drinks in the same way.
If you enjoy your soda chilled without dilution, whiskey stones may still provide a cooling effect, but their unique benefits are typically more pronounced in the context of spirits.
Final Verdict: How To Clean Whiskey Stones
We hope you find this article helpful in keeping your whiskey stones clean and well-maintained.
Whiskey stones can cool your drink without diluting it. You can clean it with soap and water and dry it before putting it back in the freezer for your next drink.
References:
- https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/bca/bca-divisions/forensic-science/Pages/evidence-processing.aspx
- https://www.britannica.com/technology/mineral-oil
