I've noticed that the Shapton Glasstones have a significantly higher tendency to load up
with steel than naturals such as Belgian Blues, Coticules, and Japanese finishing stones.

Since they also cut so fast, I can notice small amounts of steel (in an x-pattern mostly)
after only a few razors. I'm hesitant to break out the lapping plate after only several
razors since these are fairly hard ceramic stones. I've had some success with cleaning
the stones using the following method (as directed by Spyderco for their hones):

- On a wet stone, deposit a fairly generous amount of abrasive powder such as Comet
- Using a plastic scouring pad, rub the stone in a circular fashion until visibly clean
- Repeat if necessary

Keeping the stones surface free of deposits in this manner should prolong periods
between lapping, but then again, many have said that these stones wear much slower
than Nortons so more frequent lapping may be feasible.

Does anyone else perform anything similar on their stones (Shapton or not)?

Regards,

- Scott