Headstones exist to mark the life of your loved one and for relatives to remember them as time goes by, but the last thing you want is to attend the grave and see that the headstone has been discoloured or is not clean in comparison to the others. Use these steps to clean a headstone.
How To Clean A Headstone
Cleaning a headstone properly depends on the type of stone used for the memorial. There are different methods for granite and marble headstones, and the correct cloth and cleaning material needs to be used to get the best results and prevent damaging the stone’s surface.
Start cleaning the headstone using water - without any cleaning agent - and a lint-free cloth. Simple water is the best way to wash dirt and grime from the surface initially, and a lint-free cloth prevents any bits of lint from becoming caught in the lettering or on other details of the stone.
How Not To Clean A Headstone
When cleaning the headstone of a loved one, be very careful not to use any cleaning agents that could leave a stain or a mark. Most headstones are made from a porous material that absorbs any bleach, washing up liquid or an agent, staining it and leading to replacement.
If you want to use a cleaning agent, you can use some washing-up liquid; however, you need to make sure the solution is very thin and only use it lightly. Headstone staining is unsightly and disrespectful, and replacing a headstone is also expensive, so clean the area very carefully.
Cleaning Granite Headstones
Granite headstones are very common; they are also very easy to clean, especially when they have a polished finish. In this case, you should be able to clean the headstone quickly using a lint-free cloth and some water. Again, avoid cleaning agents if possible, or use them very lightly.
Once you have taken the worst of the dirt and grime from the headstone, it’s time to focus on the lettering. Use some small cotton buds to clean the letters and details of the headstone so they can be read easily once more. Finish the job off with a soft cloth and some fresh, clean water.
Cleaning Marble Headstones
Granite headstones might be more durable and less expensive than marble, but marble looks nicer overall. However, the extra niceness comes at a cost, marble is the most expensive, and it’s harder to maintain. Marble is a porous stone, so it stains more easily and needs attention.
If you’re loved one has a marble headstone, there’s a high chance of it staining in the weather and when you attempt to clean it in the wrong way. When you attempt to clean the marble headstone, only use clean water and a lint-free cloth to prevent any chemical absorption.
Preserving Headstones
Cleaning a headstone is one thing, but preventing it from staining is quite another. The reality is that headstones stain very easily, so you need to look out for staining sources on the surface, such as leaves, grass, petals, and flower pollen. Clean them regularly to prevent any staining.
Looking for funeral memorial and headstone restoration services across Lanarkshire? At Stewarton Memorials Ltd, we’re proud to offer a full memorial cleaning and renovation service for our clients, including headstone repair and restoration. Get in touch today.
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