How to Clean a Headstone: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining a headstone is essential to preserving the memory of a loved one. Over time, exposure to the elements can leave headstones dull, stained, or covered in debris. This guide will walk you through the process of cleaning different types of headstones, ensuring they remain in top condition for years to come.

Why Clean a Headstone?

Headstones are a lasting tribute to those who have passed away, yet they endure harsh weather, biological growth, and pollution. Cleaning a headstone not only preserves its aesthetic appeal but also ensures that the engravings remain legible. Regular cleaning helps prevent deterioration and honours the memory of the deceased by keeping their resting place clean and well-maintained.

Before You Start: Important Considerations 

1. Permission

• Always check if you need permission to clean a headstone, especially if it belongs to someone outside your immediate family.

2. Inspection

• Inspect the headstone for any cracks, chips, or signs of wear. Fragile stones may require professional cleaning to avoid further damage.

3. Identify the Material

• Knowing the type of stone is crucial since cleaning methods differ for granite, marble, limestone, sandstone, and slate. Using the wrong method can lead to irreversible damage.

4. Weather Conditions

• Avoid cleaning on extremely hot or cold days, as weather conditions can affect the drying process and lead to streaking or cracking.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need 

Gather the following items before you start:

• Bucket with clean water
• Soft, non-abrasive brushes (natural or synthetic)
• Lint-free cloths
• A plastic or wooden scraper
• Cotton buds for fine details
• Gloves (to protect your hands)
• Mild stone cleaner (avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners)

Avoid metal tools, hard-bristled brushes, or any cleaning products that contain bleach, vinegar, or ammonia, as these can damage the stone.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide by Material 

Different types of headstone materials require different approaches. Follow these tailored instructions to ensure safe and effective cleaning.

How to Clean Granite Headstones

Granite is a durable, low-porosity stone commonly used in headstones. Although robust, granite still benefits from gentle cleaning techniques.

1. Soak the Stone: Start by soaking the granite with clean water to loosen any dirt or debris. Avoid using high-pressure hoses as they can damage engravings.
2. Remove Loose Debris: Use a soft brush to gently scrub the surface in circular motions, focusing on stubborn spots.
3. Apply Cleaner: Apply a granite-safe cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, keeping the stone wet.
4. Scrub and Rinse: Gently scrub the headstone using a soft brush, paying special attention to any engravings. Rinse thoroughly with water to ensure no cleaner residue remains.
5. Dry and Buff: Use a lint-free cloth to dry and buff the surface. Avoid leaving water on the stone, as this can cause streaks.

How to Clean Marble Headstones

Marble is softer and more porous than granite, making it more susceptible to scratches and stains. Use extra care when cleaning marble.

1. Soak with Water: Spray or pour water over the marble to thoroughly wet it. Keeping the stone wet reduces the risk of abrasion.
2. Gently Remove Dirt: Using a wooden scraper or soft brush, gently scrape off any visible dirt, moss, or lichen. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent scratches.
3. Apply Mild Cleaner: Use a marble-safe cleaner. Leave it on for about 10 minutes, making sure the surface remains wet.
4. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat the marble dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid leaving any moisture on the stone, as marble can absorb it, leading to stains.

How to Clean Limestone and Sandstone Headstones

Both limestone and sandstone are soft and highly porous stones. Their texture can retain dirt and moisture, making them prone to weathering.

1. Pre-Wet the Surface: Spray water over the stone, allowing it to soak for several minutes. This reduces absorption of cleaning agents into the stone.
2. Brush Gently: Use a soft, non-metallic brush to gently scrub the stone’s surface. Limestone and sandstone can flake under too much pressure, so use a delicate hand.
3. Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Use only water or a specially-formulated stone cleaner. Avoid soaps, as they can penetrate and discolour these porous stones.
4. Rinse and Air Dry: Rinse thoroughly and let the stone air dry. Do not attempt to buff sandstone or limestone, as it may wear down the material.

How to Clean Slate Headstones 

Slate is slightly more durable than limestone but can still chip or flake under improper cleaning.

1. Soak the Stone: Begin by spraying water on the slate to loosen debris. Slate may require less water than other stones, as it tends to absorb moisture quickly.
2. Lightly Scrub: Use a soft brush or sponge to scrub the surface in a circular motion. Avoid direct scraping.
3. Rinse and Dry: Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let the slate air dry. Avoid wiping, as this can lead to streaks or scratches on the surface.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

• Using Metal Tools: Metal scrapers and wire brushes can scratch or chip headstone surfaces.
• Applying Bleach or Vinegar: Acidic or bleach-based cleaners damage stone and are especially harmful to softer stones.
• Pressure Washing: High-pressure water can erode the stone surface and damage engravings.
• Not Testing in a Small Area First: Always test cleaning agents on a small, inconspicuous area first.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Maintaining headstones goes beyond occasional cleaning. Regular upkeep preserves their appearance and durability. Here’s how:

Remove Organic Material Promptly

Leaves, petals, and moss can stain the stone, especially in porous materials. Regularly brushing off plant material reduces staining.

Clean Twice a Year

For best results, clean headstones every six months. This prevents dirt build-up and minimises moss and algae growth.

Inspect and Repair

Inspect headstones yearly for cracks, leaning, or loose sections. Engaging a professional for repair helps avoid worsening damage.

For comprehensive memorial restoration, Sandalwood Memorials provides exceptional cleaning and repair services, particularly in London and surrounding areas. Their expert team offers everything from detailed headstone cleaning to full restoration services. Using specialised techniques, Sandalwood Memorials can remove dirt, moss, and weather stains, restoring headstones to their original condition. Additionally, they re-gild, re-paint, or re-lead inscriptions that may have faded over time, ensuring the lettering remains clear and elegant. For headstones that have become unstable due to ground movement or age, their stonemasons are skilled in re-fixing and securing these memorials.

Apply a Sealant for Granite

Applying a stone-specific sealant to granite headstones (if permitted by the cemetery) provides extra protection against the elements. Avoid sealing softer stones like marble, as they need to remain breathable.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning a headstone is a respectful way to maintain the legacy of a loved one. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can preserve the appearance and durability of various headstone materials. Remember, each type of stone requires a unique approach, so always check the stone material and avoid harsh chemicals to prevent damage. Regular care and attention will help keep headstones in pristine condition, honouring the memory of those laid to rest.