It’s important to know the type of headstone you’re dealing with before you start cleaning it. Different materials require different cleaning methods, and using the wrong method could damage the headstone. Sometimes you need some extra oomph. If the organic growth on the headstone is stubborn, try D2 Biological Cleaning Solution. There may be similar cleaners available, but D2 is well-tested, researched, and recommended by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training. Step 7: Rinse and gather The results should be a cleaner and brighter stone. And the best part? Baking soda is completely safe and won’t damage the stone. Steps for Cleaning A Gravestone with White Vinegar First of all, homemade tombstone cleaners are often cheaper than commercial cleaners. You probably already have most of the ingredients (like soapy water) in your home, and if you don’t, they’re easy to find at your local store. You’ll want to use bristled brushes when cleaning headstones. It may have natural or synthetic bristles. You probably have a few brushes for cleaning around your house. Nothing strange here.

Marble. Marble is highly fragile, so use the proper cleaning tools. You shouldn’t use wire brushes to clean any headstone, especially not marble. Use gentle, circular scrubbing motions at all times. To clean the stone, gently brush the surface with the dish soap solution, being careful not to scrub too hard. Let the solution sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water. Baking soda is a gentle and effective cleaner that can be used on most types of headstones. Here’s what you’ll need: Gravestones Bite the Dust.” National Center for Preservation Technology and Training , National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior, 4 April 2018, www.ncptt.nps.gov/blog/gravestones-bite-the-dust/Granite headstones are safe to clean every 18 months, while bronze markers can be washed more frequently, around every three months. Homemade Headstone Cleaner Now that we understand the basics of grave markers and the factors that affect their cleaning, let’s talk about the ingredients you can use to make your own headstone cleaner. Rinse the headstone thoroughly, dry it off with your towels, gather up your stuff, and examine your work. Don’t forget to take your “after” photo! Did You Know? In hopes that I can help at least someone not have to deal with those same feelings while going through the worst time of their life. Recent Posts

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Cleaning gravestones sounds like a tedious and difficult task. But that’s where this article comes in. We’ll be discussing the best DIY headstone cleaners that you can make using everyday household items. Hose . These are optional, but you may be able to attach it to a faucet nearby and spray the stone from it directly. I recently lost my Mother and going through the process of deciding on cremation or burial, casket or urn, and the many other decisions was just completely overwhelming. The best way to clean a headstone is to gently use soft-bristle brushes and natural sponges to scrub away dirt and grime with a non-ionic cleanser. Avoid corrosive cleaners such as vinegar and bleach and implements such as wires brushes or power cleaners which will accelerate deterioration.Do you want to clean moss off headstones or other dirt of marble or granite headstones safely? HG headstone cleaner is made specifically for all types of natural-stone gravestones. With our cleaner it is particularly easy to clean old gravestones. HG headstone cleaner removes deposits and dirt without any problems. If you have a glass headstone to clean, use HG glass and mirror cleaner. A monument made of stainless steel can be cleaned with HG stainless-steel cleaner. Be careful if the headstone consists of different materials. It is often not possible to use two different products at the same time. Never use scrapers or steel wool on damaged areas of tombstones, or they may chip and flake even further, leaving the stone susceptible to more future damage. Leave the bleach and household cleaners at home. They can stain the stone, eat away at its protective coating, or otherwise damage the monument. Don’t use natural, organic or biodegradable products, either And who knows, someday you or your descendants might be visiting that gravestone to pay your respects. Another important factor is to determine the type of soiling on the surface of the headstone so that the most effective cleaning solution can be used.

Apply D/2 evenly on the surface using a brush, roller, or sprayer and let it stay for 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure that you do not let the cleaner dry on the headstone. Use a sponge to apply the soapy water to the grave marker and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Dip a soft bristled brush into the remaining soapy water and gently scrub the stone until it is free from stains and grime. DIY Headstone Cleaner White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can be used to remove mold and mildew from headstones.Cleaning Gravestones, Monuments & Stone Sculptures.” Gravestone Preservation, 27 November 2010, www.funeralhelpcenter.com/how-to-clean-a-cemetery-tombstone-or-marker/ Although gravestones stand up to a lot of weathering, these monuments aren’t indestructible, and dozens of cleaners are unsafe to use. This will minimize some potential effects of the cleaner such as crystallization of salt in the stone. It also makes it easier to rinse the cleaner from the surface of the headstone.

Lemon juice is a natural bleach that’s great for removing stains from gravestones. Here’s what you’ll need: Baking soda: Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that can be used to clean dirt and grime from headstones. It’s also an excellent natural deodorizer.To clean the stone, simply spray the solution onto the surface and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, rinse the headstone with water. But, that’s not to say that commercial cleaners aren’t a good option to remove dirt and stains. In fact, commercial cleaners can be a great choice for those who don’t have the time or the desire to make their own cleaner spray. Anything of a nature that for hygiene or associated health and safety - this includes the Outdoor Spas, Mattresses and Divan Sets As stated, this product is highly recommended in cleaning headstones and monuments. Many professionals also use this solution because it is proven to effectively clean tombstones made from various materials.