The Complete Guide to Safe and Effective Headstone Cleaning

Why Proper Headstone Cleaning Matters

Headstones face constant exposure to sun, rain, wind, pollution, and airborne biological agents. These factors contribute to discoloration, the growth of algae, moss, or lichen, and the accumulation of grime. While this process is natural, it can make inscriptions illegible and eventually erode the stone if not addressed.

Improper cleaning is one of the most common causes of accelerated deterioration. Power washing, wire brushes, and household cleaners may seem like effective solutions, but they can cause permanent surface damage. The wrong cleaning method can crack, etch, or strip a stone’s protective layer, reducing its lifespan and historical value.

Respectful, informed care is essential—especially for older headstones made of porous or delicate materials like limestone, marble, and sandstone. Even modern granite stones benefit from thoughtful maintenance.

Understanding What You're Cleaning

Before you begin any headstone cleaning, it’s important to understand what you’re working with. Headstones are typically made from one of the following materials:

Granite: Dense, hard, and resistant to weathering. Granite headstones are common in modern cemeteries and hold up well to time, but still require care to avoid scratching the polished surface.

Marble: A softer, more porous material often used in older cemeteries. Marble develops a weathered, sugar-like surface over time and is highly susceptible to acid and abrasion damage.

Limestone and Sandstone: Common in older or historic cemeteries. These stones are very soft and porous. They absorb water easily, making them vulnerable to cracking and biological growth.

Bronze: Sometimes used in plaques or combined with stone. Bronze can tarnish over time and requires a different approach than stone.

Knowing the stone type helps determine which tools, cleaners, and methods are appropriate.

Assessing the Headstone's Condition

Never assume a headstone is safe to clean just because it looks dirty. Always begin by carefully inspecting the stone’s condition. Look for cracks, flaking, loose pieces, or signs of erosion. Gently press around the edges and carved areas to check for movement or softness. If the stone is fragile or historically significant, it may be better to consult a professional.

Avoid cleaning stones that:

• Are cracked or unstable

• Have surface flaking or sugaring

• Appear to be sinking or leaning

• Are memorials older than 100 years unless cleaned with preservation in mind

A thorough visual inspection can prevent irreversible damage. If you’re unsure, don’t proceed until you’ve had an expert assess the situation.

Supplies You Will Need

To clean a headstone effectively and safely, you need the right tools. At Gravesite Cleanup, we use industry-approved supplies, including:

• A soft-bristle brush (nylon or natural fibers, never metal)

• A smaller handheld brush or toothbrush for detailed work

• A plastic or wooden scraper to remove moss and lichen

• A pump sprayer or spray bottle for cleaner application

• A bucket of clean water

• A pH-neutral biological cleaner designed for stone (we recommend D/2 Biological Solution)

• Optional: garden hose with low-pressure nozzle for rinsing

Using the right tools is critical. Avoid metal tools, abrasive pads, bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or acidic cleaners. These can scar the stone or react chemically with the material.

Preparation Before Cleaning

Choose a cool, overcast day for cleaning if possible. Avoid direct sunlight, which can dry your cleaner too quickly and create uneven results. If the stone is hot to the touch, it’s best to wait until conditions are more favorable.

Wet the entire stone with clean water before applying any cleaner. This pre-saturates the surface and helps distribute the cleaner evenly. It also reduces the risk of the stone absorbing chemicals too rapidly.

Wear gloves and protective eyewear when using chemical cleaners, even if they’re labeled as non-toxic. While products like D/2 are biodegradable and safe for most uses, they still need to be handled responsibly.

Step-by-Step Headstone Cleaning Process

Step 1: Apply Your Cleaner

Spray or pour your pH-neutral biological cleaner onto the headstone. For vertical markers, start at the bottom and work your way up to prevent streaking. Make sure the entire surface is thoroughly coated, including carved lettering and recessed areas.

Let the cleaner dwell on the surface for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This dwell time allows the formula to penetrate biological growth and loosen dirt. On heavily soiled stones, allow 30 minutes or longer before brushing.

Step 2: Gently Scrub the Surface

Using your soft-bristle brush, gently scrub the surface of the headstone. Use circular motions, and avoid applying excessive pressure. Focus on problem areas where algae, lichen, or dirt have built up. Use your smaller brush to reach around engravings and delicate corners.

If moss or thick lichen is present, use a plastic scraper to gently lift it off the surface. Never use knives or metal blades. Reapply cleaner as needed throughout the scrubbing process.

Take your time. Rushing this step can lead to gouging or erosion.

Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly

Once you've finished scrubbing, rinse the stone thoroughly with clean water. You can use a garden sprayer or a bucket to pour water over the surface. Ensure that all residues, soap, and debris are completely washed away.

Repeat the process for any remaining spots. It's better to clean twice gently than once aggressively.

Step 4: Allow Time for Natural Brightening

D/2 and similar biological cleaners continue working after the initial cleaning. Over the following days and weeks, you’ll notice the stone continue to brighten as organic matter breaks down. Rain and sunlight aid this process.

You may not see instant perfection—but a few days later, the results often speak for themselves. This is especially true for older headstones that have not been cleaned in decades.

Maintenance Schedule

A cleaned headstone will eventually accumulate new biological growth over time. However, with regular care, it’s easy to prevent heavy buildup.

We recommend cleaning:

• Granite headstones once every 12 to 18 months

• Marble or limestone headstones once every 2 to 3 years

• Bronze plaques once a year with a separate bronze-safe cleaner

The frequency may vary depending on local climate, shade conditions, and tree coverage.

Avoid cleaning too frequently, as even soft brushes can cause wear over time. Consistency and gentle handling are the keys to preserving inscriptions and surface finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cleaning a headstone isn’t difficult—but it does require mindfulness. Avoid these common errors:

• Using bleach or household cleaners: These products may seem effective but cause long-term staining and chemical damage.

• Scrubbing with hard bristles or metal tools: These can scratch and etch the stone surface, permanently damaging its finish.

• Skipping the rinse step: Leaving residue behind can attract new growth faster and leave streaks.

• Using power washers: Even on low settings, pressure washers can chip stone, dislodge inscriptions, and strip surface layers.

• Neglecting to inspect the stone: Cleaning a structurally unsound headstone can lead to collapse or further deterioration.

When in doubt, contact a professional service like Gravesite Cleanup for advice or assistance.

A Note on Historical Preservation

Cleaning old or historic headstones requires an additional level of care. Many cemetery markers are protected by local or state historical societies. If you’re working in a historic cemetery or with a marker over 100 years old, always seek guidance first.

In these cases, using only distilled water and a soft brush may be more appropriate than any chemical cleaner. Preservation efforts prioritize stabilization over appearance.

At Gravesite Cleanup, we adhere to guidelines set by the National Center for Preservation Technology and Training (NCPTT) and other leading conservation bodies. Our goal is to preserve history, not rewrite it.

Additional Tips from the Field

• Always photograph the headstone before and after cleaning to track progress and document care.

• Bring extra water if you’re cleaning in a cemetery without access to a spigot or hose.

• Avoid placing buckets or tools on adjacent graves out of respect.

• Check cemetery regulations before performing maintenance, especially in private or religious cemeteries.

Professional Headstone Cleaning in Nashville

If you're unsure about tackling a headstone cleaning project yourself—or if you’re dealing with multiple gravesites—our team is here to help. Gravesite Cleanup provides expert headstone cleaning services throughout Nashville and the surrounding areas.

We handle one-time restorations as well as scheduled maintenance plans for families who want to preserve the beauty and dignity of their loved ones' memorials without the stress.

Every headstone we clean is treated with professionalism, patience, and respect. We don’t rush. We don’t cut corners. We use proven tools and methods to safely restore headstones to their proper appearance while preserving their structure.

Final Thoughts

Headstone cleaning is more than an act of care—it’s an act of reverence. By taking the time to clean properly, you honor the life and memory of those who came before us.

Whether you decide to clean a headstone yourself or hire a service like Gravesite Cleanup, the most important thing is doing it the right way. With the right tools, safe practices, and a bit of patience, you can restore beauty and clarity to any grave marker without causing harm.

If you have questions, need a quote, or want to schedule a cleaning in Nashville, we’re just a phone call or message away.