We've had our Mariana for about eight months now. In the beginning I was oiling like you are at 2-3 times per month, but for about the last couple months I've decided to go "natural", and have not oiled since. I'm actually liking the more natural state of the stone and like the way it looks as it has dried out. We'll see as time goes on which I really prefer, granted it does look more elegant when oiled, so maybe I will oil when expecting company, and let it go the rest of the time...

My santa rita soapstone has been installed for about 5 years now. When I do oil it, I use the oil/wax combo which lasts a lot longer for me. Last time I oiled was maybe a year ago. I was just looking at it this morning and thinking that it could use it again. The need to oil really slowed down after the first year or so, I think because it became oxidized.

I oiled once when I installed it, and then never again. In 9 months time it had darkened on its own, and I just clean it. Maybe because of the cleanser, or maybe because of the type of SS, but oil spatters from cooking are not in my reality, but I have seen them in pictures.
Casey

Once a year, before the annual holiday gathering. The area by the sink could probably use it twice a year, but it's really not that big of a difference. It's all dark now (5 years), but the oil/wax just makes it look richer.

My Green Mt has been in 7 years. I oiled it one time right after it was installed and never again. My use of it as a baking counter has caused it to all darken naturally. I have never had a problem with spots of oil or water marks. I clean it with the dishcloth and dish soap or just plain water. c

I tend to oil or wax more frequently, because it seems that even a little dishsoap takes the oil off immediately. Three messy kids so I am cleaning counters constantly. The just oiled look lasts for about 5 minutes until I have to clean the counter!

I so enjoy the look of my SS in various states that I typically wax maybe once every three months or so. Usually before a LARGE party.

I have Minas SS and am still struggling with oit or not oil, I find water takes the oil off around the sink, and stays everywhere else. I am trying to take the oil off everywhere using dawn dish liqud and water. Now it is extremely blotchy, I will prob oil it all over again. My goal would be not to oil it at all. I like the slate gray color under the oil splotches. Anyone have a suggestion? Will the oil and wax come off eventually if I keep cleaning it? Susan