To prepare the spray when you are ready to clean, simply mix equal parts of lemon juice and water. Pour the solution into a spray bottle.

Halo does contain non-ionic surfactants which are electrically neutral cleaning agents that do not contribute to the formation of soluble salts. They provide better wetting of the stone surface and therefore speed up the removal of general soiling. Dish soap: Dish soap is a gentle cleaner that can be used to remove dirt and grime from headstones. It’s also a great way to add some suds to your cleaning solution.

Use the right tools

Your funeral director may be able to advise you of your chosen cemetery’s regulations and the cemetery itself should be able to supply the information. How to clean a Gravestone

Give the plaques a thorough rinsing as you need to ensure that all the cleaning solution has been removed from the marker. The leftover residue will attract dirt and cause the marker to become dirty much faster than it would otherwise. Once you’ve rinsed the gravestone, dry it with a clean cloth. 7. Optional: Wax the Gravestone One of the downfalls of this product is that you won’t see instant results and will need to put some faith in the product. Perhaps you could plan to apply for the treatment a week before and visiting. First, the claim to give free estimates, which is always a benefit and promotes the adage, “it doesn’t hurt to ask.” Granite, sandstone and slate headstones require a cleaning solution of 1 oz of non-ionic solution in 5 gallons of water. You must use a non-ionic solution to clean as it is an electrically neutral cleaning agent. This means that it doesn’t contain soluble salts nor will it cause soluble salts to be created. Soluble salts will damage the headstone, so they should be avoided. 5. Apply Cleaning Solution to the StoneThat being said, we still need to avoid pressure washes and metal brushes. Some artists use wire brushes to add texture to marble works of art. If you are not looking to add a hair texture to your headstone, keep the metal brushes away.

After initial treatment of substrate, a once-a-year light spraying will help maintain a clean, stain-free surface. You can buy specific headstone cleaners which promise to remove moss and other forms of ‘stubborn soiling’ with ease, such as HG Headstone Cleaning Spray. Another option is a photographic solution called Kodak Photo-Flo which, if you can get hold of it, has been recommended by the US Association for Gravestone Studies. Often, simply cleaning the area around the gravestone improves the appearance tremendously. 3. Soak the Headstone with Water Using a soft-bristled brush and water, scrub at the bronze gravestone using plain water. Use a toothbrush to get into any small crevices that are hard to reach with the bigger brush. 4. Mix Cleaning Solution

Care must be taken when cleaning a memorial stone. The wrong product or cleaning tool could damage the surface of the stone, eroding away the inscriptions over time. Your cleaning kit should ideally include: White vinegar: White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can be used to remove mold and mildew from headstones. And second, plant growth or darkening can obscure names, dates, and other data. Correct and careful cleaning procedures, as used by professional conservationists, can keep the stone readable and prevent future deterioration. When Should You NOT Clean a Gravestone? When you’re cleaning gravestones, you need to be careful about the tools and cleaning solutions that you use on the memorials. The stones are easily damaged when treated incorrectly. Do Not Use Bleach They also state that they will never use a power washer, or harsh chemicals echoing the importance of what we have mentioned above already. Final Words

For example, you wouldn’t clean a marble headstone the same way you would clean a granite headstone. It does claim that a dry surface is ideal and to avoid rainy or extremely warm days. Rainy days will rinse the mixture off before it can get is job down and hot days will cause it to prematurely evaporate. To prepare the cleaning solution, simply mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water. Stir until the baking soda has dissolved. These products are most likely designed for cleaning artwork or indoor furniture and counter spaces. The Greenhouse Method

Grave maintenance services

There are several reasons you will want to consider gravestone cleaning. Cleaning can be so important to prevent decay to the stone. Damage is caused to gravestones by . . . 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. The family which owns the Deed of Grant is responsible for the grave maintenance, subject to the rules of the authority which owns the cemetery and looks after the grounds. Some cemeteries can have quite strict regulations about things people are permitted to do and what is expected of them. These may vary according to the type of burial plot chosen, or be subject to additional cemetery fees and charges. Some burial grounds are very strict. They may forbid grave decorations such as lights, wooden crosses, plant pots and plastic ornaments and can even remove them.