Things You'll Need:
- Scrub brushes with natural bristles
- Sponge
- Nonionic cleaner such as Woolite or Dawn dish detergent
- Water
- Plastic or wooden scrapers
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Step 1
Thoroughly inspect the gravestone for damage. If the stone is crumbling or damaged you should not clean it as you could cause further damage.
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Step 2
Using a plastic or wooden scraper, carefully remove as much lichen and other biological material as possible.
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Step 3
Mix a few drops of Dawn dish soap or a cap full of Woolite in a gallon of water.
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Step 4
With a soft natural bristle brush begin to scrub the stone starting from the bottom of the stone and working your way up. A circular and random motion is recommended to avoid markings on the stone. Scrub as gently as possible to get the job done. Frequently rinse off the brush in the water and soap solution.
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Step 5
Rinse the stone off with clean water frequently during the cleaning to make sure you are not causing damage to the stone. Do not let the dirty water dry on the stone.
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Step 6
Once the stone is thoroughly rinsed, pat it dry with a clean cloth.
Comments
StoneRevival said
on 10/5/2008 I clean headstones professionally. Do not use household cleaners like Dawn or Woolite. They will cause staining over time. Plain water is the best solution.
wikedwestwitch said
on 12/3/2007 We photograph headstones/markers for the website: Find A Grave - and NEVER use any liquids on markers for cleaning. Your suggestion to use plastic/wood products for scraping works well for us . . . it is disturbing to see the results of others' use of liquids on stones - permanent discolorations and etchings (probably from bleach) which over time, can totally obliterate markings and carvings. Thanx for sharing what you have experienced in the field!