How To Clean A Gravestone

Wondering how to clean a gravestone properly without causing damage? Protect your loved one's lasting memorial with our simple guide.

Over time, a headstone's surface can unfortunately fall victim to the elements and accumulates environmental buildup — dirt, lichen, moss, algae, bird droppings, tree sap, soil splashing, mildew, and pollution. Regularly maintaining and cleaning a love one's headstone makes it a beautiful place to visit. Whether you wish to beautify a resting place, or if you read cemeteries for historical documentation, be sure to tackle this project with a bit of know-how and proceed with harmless methods to prevent further damage. Here are some helpful suggestions.

Before cleaning a gravestone be sure that the monument is structurally sound and is not in danger of falling. Lightly tap on the stone. If you hear a hollow sound, the stone could be delaminating (the layers of the stone may be separating). If you notice any cracks, loose sections, or severe damage, do not attempt to clean. (This is a job for a professional stone conservator or preservationist.)

Next, remove any unwanted plant growth. Gently pull off any plant life without causing damage to your headstone. Plants such as ivy may need to be cut at the base and every 6 inches. (We do not advise tugging on the vines as this may cause harm to the gravestone.) For thicker growth, allow it to die after it is cut back before removing and proceeding with cleaning. Regularly weed and maintain your gravesite to prevent future overgrowth.

Cleaning helps to preserve the stone and is not intended to make the marker look like new. Improperly or unnecessarily cleaning a grave can accelerate its deterioration. Always choose the least invasive method and materials. Some basic cleaning supplies and a little elbow grease are often all you need to safely make a drastic difference to a gravestone. Before attempting to freshen up a loved one's resting place, consider these steps and methods.

Note: Gravestone cleaning is best done in moderate temperatures. We do not advise cleaning gravestones before your area's last frost dates. (Average Frost Dates here.) Adding water to a gravestone before a frost will cause water to expand and may cause cracks. Alternatively, if it's hot outside, please allow your water to warm in the sun before using. Cool water on the hot stone may cause cracking.

Water is your best friend when cleaning a gravestone. You will need many gallons of water to get the job done, so come prepared. Most cemeteries have a water supply. (If not, old plastic milk jugs work great for transporting water.) A 1–2-gallon garden pump and spray bottle also works well, but do not use a power washer.

Many cleaning solutions can gradually deteriorate the stone. Avoid corrosive cleaners such as bleach (or products containing bleach), and acidic solutions, such as vinegar and lemon juice. There are a number of safe biological stone cleaners on the market or consider making your own safe and effective DIY headstone cleaner. Here are some examples.

After cleaning, be sure to always rinse away any cleaning solution with clean water, leaving no residue behind. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel to prevent any streaking.

Do not clean with solutions too often. Cleaning solutions and the agitation from scrubbing can deteriorate the stone over time. With each cleaning, tiny particles are removed from the stone, so frequent, over-cleaning, or improper cleaning practices can be harmful.

Stones made from slate, sandstone, or marble, deteriorate more quickly, and should only be cleaned once every 7 to 10 years. Bronze markers can be cleaned every 3 months. However bronze will develop a blue-green patina over time and cleaning will not remove this despite your efforts.

Note: If you wish to clean a headstone that does not belong to your family, first get permission from a descendant, the sexton, cemetery superintendent, or the town.

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Peter Geiger is the Editor of the Farmers' Almanac. Read his full biography.