If you see ivy, ferns, or moss growing over the headstone, it is a good idea to clean it. These plants also trap moisture and the roots can break up the stone. Wait to clean the gravestone until the weather is mild. If you decide to clean the headstone when it’s very cold or excessively hot, the stone could crack when you clean it. [2] X Research source
Do not clean a gravestone that’s already broken or looks unstable. Gravestones can fall over and injure people, so be cautious when you’re cleaning in a cemetery. If you’re not a relative of the deceased, ask the family for permission or ask the cemetery for permission if you can’t locate a family member.
Never use an electric pressure washer on a gravestone since it will blast off the surface of the stone.
If you don’t have a plastic scraper, use a wooden scraper. While it might be tempting to reach for a metal tool, metal is too abrasive and it could scratch the surface of the headstone. If there are vines or plants growing over the headstone, don’t pull them out or you could damage the gravestone. Instead, cut the plants down to the ground and wait a few weeks until they die. Then, gently pull the dried plant out of the soil.
It might seem counterintuitive to clean from bottom to top, but working this way prevents limescale from forming. To remove graffiti, work fast and clean the stone as soon as possible. Dip a soft bristle brush in water and scrub the gravestone. If the graffiti doesn’t come off, spray D/2, a non-ionic cleanser, on the stone and scrub with a brush.
Because non-ionic cleansers continue to work after you’ve applied them, you can spray the stone and simply let it air dry. When you come back weeks or months later, you’ll be surprised at the improvement!
Bleach or chlorine Vinegar or acidic cleansers Metal tools, wire scrub brushes, or abrasive pads Household cleansers like dish soap or detergents Pressure washers or sandblasters
Write down the date you clean the gravestone so you can refer back to when you last cleaned it. If the cemetery provides regular maintenance, ask them about how often they clean the gravestone.
Although lilacs, roses, or hardwood trees make lovely additions to a cemetery, if they’re too close to to the headstone, their roots can damage the stone. Ask the cemetery for permission before you remove plants. They might have a groundskeeper that can clear the area of growth for you.
Many people leave special tokens of remembrance on holidays, anniversaries, or birthdays.
