How to Clean a Headstone

 

Gravestones are a beautiful way to commemorate the memory of a loved one and can last for generations upon generations. Over time, however, headstones can accumulate a build-up of grime and dirt that can seriously ruin the overall look of the stone. To keep headstones looking their best, plan to do periodic, gentle cleanings of the stone to remove any of that outdoor build-up.

Cleaning a gravestone requires careful motions and specific tools and materials to keep the stone safe during cleaning. These materials include: 

• Five gallons of water. The cemetery likely won't have a water source for you to connect to, so make sure you bring plenty of water to use!
• Soft brushes and sponges. Make sure you're using natural materials free of dyes, not to transfer any color to the headstone. You'll also want a soft brush with natural bristles and a sponge without the rough side to prevent scratches.
• Scrapers. For areas needing more help, use a wooden or plastic scraper to remove any dirt and debris stuck on or in a small crevice. Avoid using any metal to prevent scratches.
• Towels. Use soft, large towels to dry off the headstone when finished. 

Once you've gathered your materials, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and safe process: 

1. Pick a day with mild weather to clean the headstone. If it is too hot, water can evaporate too quickly.
2. Start to remove any build-up from the headstone. Start with larger pieces of dirt, using your scrapers and pickers to help remove it. Do your best to go slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the stone.
3. Start gently cleaning your stone using your water supply, sponge, and brushes. Keep the stone wet throughout the process, as dry cleaning can damage the stone. Start at the bottom and work your way up to prevent dirty water from dripping. Repeat as needed until the headstone is clean. Make sure you're using your clean water supply throughout and that you're NOT using any soap or chemical material.
4. Once cleaned to your satisfaction, dump the rest of your clean water over the stone to rinse the gravestone.
5. Dry the stone with towels.

Adolf Funeral Home and Cremation Services prides itself on providing exemplary customer service. We take every measure to ensure you are satisfied with all your funeral planning and burial needs during this sensitive time of grief and mourning. Our staff will do whatever it takes to make our workplace environment positive, which translates to your experience with us. 

Adolf Funeral Home and Cremation Services has served the Berwyn and Willowbrook areas for many years. We pride ourselves on being large enough to provide professionalism and reliability yet small enough to provide personalized service. To discover more about how we can serve your needs, please visit our website, or call one of our locations today.

 

Sources:

https://www.funeralhelpcenter.com/how-to-clean-a-cemetery-tombstone-or-marker/

https://ohsospotless.com/how-to-clean-a-gravestone/

https://www.headstonehub.com/blog/how-to-clean-a-headstone