0% APR Up To 24 Months* | Talk With A Specialist Today

100,000+ Customers Served

Reviews

Get a Free Quote
Desktop BannerDesktop Banner

How to Clean and Maintain a Headstone: The Right Way

MAY 20, 2024

Visiting a loved one's grave and finding the headstone dirty, stained, or overgrown can be genuinely upsetting. The good news is that most headstones can be cleaned safely and effectively — and the process is simpler than many people think.

The key word is safely. Well-meaning but uninformed cleaning efforts can actually damage headstones, particularly older or softer stone types. This guide walks you through the right way to clean and maintain a memorial.

01. Before You Start: Know Your Stone: Different materials require different approaches. Rushing in with the wrong product can cause real harm. Identify what your headstone is made of:

Granite — the most common modern material; very durable and tolerates most gentle cleaning approaches. Marble — softer and more porous; requires extra caution. Limestone or sandstone — very soft; easily damaged by acidic cleaners. Bronze plaques — require specific bronze cleaners; never use abrasives.

03. What NOT to Use: This list matters as much as what you should use. The following can cause serious damage:

Bleach — can permanently damage stone surfaces and discolor engravings. Vinegar or other acidic solutions — etches softer stones like marble and limestone. Wire brushes or metal tools — scratch and scar stone surfaces. Pressure washers — the force can chip away at the surface and erode carved details. Household cleaners not designed for stone — many contain chemicals that stain or etch.

05. What You'll Need: For safe headstone cleaning, gather: a soft-bristle brush (natural fiber, not synthetic or metal); a bucket of clean water; a non-ionic soap or a cleaner specifically designed for stone memorials (D/2 Biological Solution is widely recommended by preservation experts); soft cloths or sponges.
06. Step-by-Step Cleaning for Granite Headstones:
07. Step 1: Wet the Surface: Before applying any cleaner, thoroughly wet the stone with clean water. This prevents the stone from absorbing the cleaner too quickly and helps loosen surface dirt.
08. Step 2: Apply Cleaner: Apply a small amount of non-ionic soap or stone cleaner to the wet surface. Work it in gently with your soft brush using circular motions.
09. Step 3: Gently Scrub: Work the brush over the entire surface, paying attention to engraved areas where dirt and biological growth accumulate. Use light to moderate pressure — not hard scrubbing.
010. Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the stone with plenty of clean water, making sure no soap residue remains. Residue can attract dirt and promote biological growth.
011. Step 5: Allow to Dry: Let the headstone air dry. Avoid wiping dry with a cloth, which can leave lint or fine scratches.
012. Dealing with Biological Growthr: Moss, lichen, algae, and mold are common on outdoor headstones. They look unsightly and, over time, can chemically damage the stone surface.

D/2 Biological Solution is especially effective for this. Apply it to the affected areas and allow it to sit for several minutes before scrubbing gently and rinsing. For heavy growth, a second application may be needed.

Avoid physically scraping off lichen — the stone often comes with it.

015. Cleaning Bronze Markers: Bronze plaques require a different approach. Use a cleaner specifically formulated for bronze — not acidic cleaners, abrasives, or general metal polishes. Rinse thoroughly after cleaning. Many families also apply a bronze wax to protect the surface after cleaning.
016. How Often Should You Clean a Headstone?: For most granite headstones, a gentle cleaning once or twice a year keeps them in excellent condition. More frequent cleaning is needed if biological growth is heavy or if the cemetery is in a humid, heavily wooded environment.
017. When to Call a Professional: If a headstone is significantly damaged — deep staining, broken sections, severe biological growth, leaning or unstable foundation — consider contacting a professional monument restoration service rather than attempting complex repairs yourself.
018. A Final Note on Respect: When cleaning a headstone that isn't a family member's, always ask the cemetery for permission first. Many cemeteries have preservation volunteers who welcome help; others have specific policies. Approaching with permission ensures your efforts are welcome and appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

At Eternity Headstones, we offer a diverse range of headstones, including classic upright monuments, flat markers, slant markers, and custom-designed memorials. Each type is crafted with care to ensure a lasting and respectful tribute to your loved one.

Choosing the right headstone involves considering the size, style, and material that best honor your loved one’s memory. Factors to consider include cemetery regulations, desired inscriptions, and personal design preferences. Our team is here to help guide you through the selection process to ensure a fitting and meaningful tribute. For personalized assistance, reach out to us at sales@eternityheadstones.com.

Our headstones are crafted from premium granite, marble, and bronze materials. Each material is selected for its durability, beauty, and ability to withstand the elements, ensuring a lasting memorial that stands the test of time.

To maintain your headstone, regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. Avoid abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that could damage the surface. For stone headstones, keep them free of debris and periodically inspect them for signs of wear. Follow any specific care instructions provided to keep your headstone in excellent condition.

Yes, we specialize in custom headstones tailored to your unique specifications. Whether you have a specific design in mind or need assistance creating a personalized tribute, our team can craft a headstone that reflects the individuality of your loved one. From custom engravings to unique shapes and sizes, we are dedicated to providing a meaningful and distinctive memorial.

Eternity Headstones stands out for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. We combine traditional artistry with modern techniques to create headstones that meet the highest durability and aesthetic appeal standards. Our focus on environmental responsibility means we use sustainable materials and ethical production practices. Additionally, our dedication to customer satisfaction ensures a seamless purchasing experience and reliable support.

Ordering from Eternity Headstones is simple through our easy-to-navigate website. Select the type and size of the headstone you need, then proceed to checkout. We offer various shipping options to suit your needs, and our customer support team is available to assist with any questions. For help with your order, contact us at sales@eternityheadstones.com.

If you experience any issues with your headstone, such as damage or an improper fit, please contact our customer support team at sales@eternityheadstones.com as soon as possible. We are committed to resolving any problems promptly, including offering repairs, replacements, or adjustments to ensure your headstone meets your expectations. For more details, visit our Returns/Refund Policy Page.

Footer logo image

Eternity Headstones specializes in creating crafting magnificent headstones that are intended to be eternal memorials to loved ones.

Contact us

Toll Free - 888-245-4518

Local - 361-332-4649

sales@eternityheadstones.com

4000 Greenbriar Dr. Ste 200 Stafford, TX 77477

Subscribe

© 2026 ETERNITY HEADSTONES All rights reserved.