That's interesting because I actually gave up on SOS pads way back in the 80s. I'm wondering if they didn't significantly improve the product over time or if some other company bought them out and improved them somehow. Because years ago when I used them for a variety of jobs I always thought that they fell apart too easily and made a mess a lot of times too. But it is possible that they might have just really re-invented and improved them which is cool if they did.
Bar Keeper's Friend has also launched several new products in the past 3 to 4 years. Some of their new liquid cleaners and polishes really do a great job. It's refreshing to see a company here in the USA really take pride in the quality of their product. Because there are so many cleaning products in the grocery stores, hardware stores and big box stores like Rip-Mart that are just a total waste of your money. So when I see BKF come out with a new product to their growing line I always try it out.
Also there is a professional/commercial line of products made by a company called "ZEP" and I must say I've had great luck with many of their great products. But I've yet to use anything of theirs that surpasses the performance of the BKF products for cleaning sharpening stones ( and especially ceramic stones). But keep the suggestions coming because I'm always on the look out for great cleaning products.