Cleaning your diamond sharpening stone is essential to maintain its effectiveness. Over time, metal particles and debris can clog the diamond surface, reducing its ability to sharpen. While routine cleaning might involve simple methods, sometimes a deeper clean is necessary.
Deep Cleaning with Hot Soapy Water
According to the provided reference, when your diamond stones require a more thorough clean than usual, using hot soapy water is a great way to go grab for achieving a deeper clean. This method helps to break down and wash away stubborn buildup that can accumulate on the stone's surface.
Steps for a Deeper Clean
While the reference specifically highlights what to use for a deeper clean (hot soapy water), the general process typically involves applying the cleaning solution and agitating the surface to loosen debris.
Here's how you might perform a deeper clean using hot soapy water based on the reference:
- Prepare the Solution: Get a container or sink and fill it with hot water. Add a small amount of dish soap to create soapy water.
- Apply to the Stone: Submerge the diamond stone in the hot soapy water or apply the solution generously to the stone's surface.
- Clean the Surface: Use a brush (like a stiff nylon brush or an old toothbrush) to gently scrub the surface of the diamond stone. The hot, soapy water combined with scrubbing helps lift the embedded particles.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the stone completely under clean running water to remove all soap residue and loosened debris.
- Dry the Stone: Wipe the stone dry with a cloth or allow it to air dry completely before storing it.
After following these steps for a deeper clean with hot soapy water, your diamond stone should be much cleaner and ready for use again.
