If you enjoy sipping on a smooth glass of whiskey, you know that one of the keys to enjoying your drink is keeping your whiskey stones clean.
Whiskey stones are small cubes of soapstone used to keep your drink cold without watering it down the way ice would. They are a must-have for any whiskey lover, but if they aren’t cleaned properly, they can make your drink taste bad.
The good news is that it’s pretty easy to clean whiskey stones. All you need is some hot water and mild dish soap.
Place the stones in a bowl or glass and pour the hot water over them. Then, add a drop or two of dish soap and let the stones soak for a few minutes. After soaking, use a soft brush to scrub away any dirt or residue on the stone’s surface. Rinse the stones well and let them air dry before using them again.
It is essential to clean your whiskey stones regularly to ensure that they are effective and safe to use.
This article will show you how to clean your whiskey stones, store them properly, and how often you should clean them.
Different Types of Whiskey Stones
There are a few different types of whiskey stones on the market, each with its benefits. They include Soapstone, Granite, Quartz, Glass, and Stainless Steel.
Soapstone
Soapstone is a soft stone that is perfect for whiskey stones because it doesn’t absorb flavors or odors. This means that your drink will always taste smooth and delicious. Soapstone is also non-porous, so it won’t harbor bacteria as other stones can.
Granite
Granite whiskey stones are made from, you guessed it, granite. These stones are a bit harder than soapstone, and they will absorb some of the flavors and odors from your drink.
Quartz
Quartz whiskey stones are made from quartz and are harder than granite, and they will absorb some of the flavors and odors from your drink.
Glass
Glass whiskey stones are non-porous and won’t absorb any flavors or odors from your drink. However, they are not as effective at keeping your drink cold as other stones.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel whiskey stones are made from stainless steel and are harder than quartz though they will absorb some of the flavors and odors from your drink. They nevertheless successfully maintain the coldness of your drink without diluting it.
How To Clean Whiskey Stones
Although these whiskey stones are made from different materials, you can easily clean them using the same cleaning method.
To clean the above-mentioned types of whiskey stones, you need:
- a mild soap
- a soft cloth or brush
- hot water
To clean all types of whiskey stones, you can use the following steps:
- Start by placing the stones in a bowl or glass.
- Pour hot water over the stones until they are completely submerged.
- Add a drop or two of mild soap to the water and let the stones soak for a few minutes.
- Use a soft cloth or brush to scrub away any dirt or residue on the stone’s surface.
- Rinse the stones well and let them air dry before putting them back in the refrigerator.
How To Store Whiskey Stones After Cleaning
Once your whiskey stones are clean, it is essential to store them properly to prevent them from exposing to bacteria. The best way to store whiskey stones is in a clean, dry container. A mason jar or other airtight container will work well. Be sure to place the lid on the container loosely so that air can circulate and the stones can dry completely after cleaning.
When storing whiskey stones, keep them in a bag or container so they don’t come into contact with other food or drinks, especially in the refrigerator. This will help to prevent any cross-contamination of flavors.
It is also a good idea to label the container with the date so that you know when the stones were last cleaned. You can also keep them in the freezer so they are always cold and ready to use.
How Often Should You Clean Whiskey Stones?
For best results, your whiskey stones should be cleaned regularly. We recommend washing them every week or so, depending on your use. If you notice any build-up of dirt, oils, or flavors, clean them as soon as possible.
Cleaning your whiskey stones is easy and only takes a few minutes. However, by cleaning them regularly, you can ensure that your stones are always ready to use.
Additionally, cleaning your whiskey stones every month is a good idea, even if you are not using them regularly. This will help keep them in top condition and prevent any build-up of bacteria or contaminants.
Takeaway
Whiskey stones are a great way to keep your drink cold without watering it down. However, it is essential to clean them regularly to ensure that they are effective and safe to use. Store your whiskey stones in a clean, dry container, and label the container with the date of the last cleaning. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy your cool drinks thanks to the whiskey stones for many years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can dish wash whiskey stones. However, we recommend hand washing them as this will be gentler on the stone’s surface and help extend its life.
No, whiskey stones do not expire. However, we recommend cleaning them monthly, even if you are not using them regularly. This will help keep them in top condition and prevent any build-up of bacteria or contaminants.
Yes, you can use whiskey stones for other drinks. However, we recommend using them specifically for whiskey as they can absorb flavors from other drinks. If you use them for other drinks, clean them thoroughly before using them again for whiskey.
