How to Clean a Headstone in a Cemetery

What You’ll Need

Soft-bristle brush (natural or nylon, not metal)
Plastic scraper or wooden popsicle sticks
Clean water (distilled if possible, or a large jug)
Mild, non-ionic soap (like Orvus WA or a pH-neutral dish soap)
Soft cloths or sponges
Spray bottle
Bucket
Gloves (optional, for your comfort)

Step-by-Step

Check cemetery rules: Before you touch anything, ask the cemetery office if they allow DIY cleaning. Some require you to use their approved services or have specific product bans. Note any restrictions.
Assess the headstone: Look at the material (granite, marble, limestone, sandstone, bronze). Check for cracks, chips, or loose pieces. If the stone is fragile or already damaged, stop and call a professional conservator.
Wet the stone thoroughly: Use clean water from a bucket or spray bottle. Start at the bottom and work up to avoid streaks. Keep the stone wet during cleaning—never let soap dry on it.
Apply a mild cleaner: Mix a few drops of non-ionic soap with water in your bucket or spray bottle. Test on a small, hidden area first. Avoid any cleaner with acid, bleach, or ammonia.
Scrub gently: Using your soft brush, work in small circles, starting at the bottom. Apply light pressure—let the water and soap do the work. For stubborn dirt, let the soap sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.
Rinse thoroughly: Use clean water to rinse off all soap and loosened dirt. Rinse from the top down, and use a soft cloth to wipe away any residue. Make sure no soap film remains.
Remove biological growth (moss, lichen): If you see green or black growth, gently scrape with a plastic scraper or popsicle stick. Do not use metal tools. After scraping, re-wet and scrub with a bit more soap. Rinse again.
Let it air dry and inspect: Leave the stone to dry naturally. Check for any remaining spots or stains. If something persists, note it and consider a professional. Do not apply sealants or wax.

Common Mistakes

Using bleach or ammonia: These can damage stone, dissolve the binder in marble, and leave white streaks.
Pressure washing: High pressure can erode the surface, especially on soft stone, and force water into cracks.
Wire brushes or metal scrapers: They scratch the surface and can leave rust stains.
Scrubbing dry: Always wet the stone first to avoid grinding dirt into the surface.
Using household glass cleaners: Many contain ammonia or acids that harm stone.
Applying sealants or wax: These trap moisture and cause more damage over time.

Tips

Clean early in the morning or on a cloudy day to avoid quick drying and soap residue.
Use distilled water if your tap water is hard; minerals can leave spots.
For bronze markers, use a specialized bronze cleaner and follow the label instructions—do not use the same method as for stone.
If the headstone is very dirty, repeat the process rather than scrubbing harder.
Keep a record of the date you cleaned; most experts suggest cleaning once a year.

Troubleshooting

White streaks remain: Likely soap residue. Rinse again with clean water and wipe with a damp cloth. If streaks persist, try a weaker soap solution.
Moss or lichen won’t come off: Let the soap sit longer (10–15 minutes), then gently scrape with a plastic tool. Do not force it—repeated gentle attempts work better than one aggressive scrub.
Stone feels rough or powdery: This indicates deterioration. Stop cleaning immediately and consult a professional conservator. You may be doing more harm.
Rust stains: These come from metal fixtures or nails. Do not try to remove them yourself; they require a specialized poultice. Contact a professional.
Water runs off and doesn’t wet: The stone may have a hydrophobic coating. Use a soft cloth to apply water and soap, and consider that the coating may need professional removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bleach to whiten a headstone?

No. Bleach is too harsh and can damage the stone, especially marble and limestone. It can also leave white residue that is hard to remove.

Is it okay to use a pressure washer?

No. Pressure washers can erode the surface and force water into cracks, causing further damage. Stick to soft brushes and water.

What cleaner is safe for all headstones?

A non-ionic soap (like Orvus WA) diluted in water is generally safe for most stone types. Always test on a small area first. Avoid any acid, alkaline, or bleach-based cleaners.

How often should I clean a headstone?

Most professionals recommend once a year, but it depends on the environment. If the stone is heavily soiled, you can clean more often, but always gently.

Can I clean a headstone if it’s cracked?

If the stone is cracked or chipped, do not clean it yourself. Water can seep into cracks and worsen the damage. Contact a professional conservator.

What about bronze headstones?

Bronze requires different care. Use a cleaner specifically made for bronze, apply with a soft cloth, and rinse thoroughly. Do not use the same brush or soap as for stone.

Sources: National Park Service. Menus and buttons can differ slightly by version. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.