How to Clean Memorial Headstones

A memorial should be a lasting tribute to a loved one. Responsibility for its upkeep is down to the registered owner. However, keeping memorials clean can be a challenge.

At McGarry Memorials (Manchester) Ltd, this month’s blog offers tips to clean and maintain memorial headstones. For information, call us in Manchester on 0161 812 158.

Cleaning A Headstone

Headstones with a small amount of surface dirt on should be washed down with water and a lint free cloth. Once washed, use a soft, dry cloth to polish away any water streaks.

Letters on the headstone should be lightly cleaned with a soft cloth and water. Any difficult detailing can be cleaned with a cotton bud.

Use the Right Products

Never use household cleaning products on memorials. Avoid the likes of bleach, vinegar baby oil etc.  as some headstones can absorb moisture easily. This makes them more prone to staining.

If you need to, you can use a very weak mixture of washing up liquid and water. Make sure you thoroughly rinse the soapy water afterwards.

Remove Moss & Mould

Moss and mould can leave marks if left on a headstone for too long. This is the result of a reaction between the natural acids and the stone. Wetting the moss and removing it with a plastic scraper it best.

In addition to this, other organic materials such as leaves, petals and grass cuttings should be removed as soon as possible. Otherwise, the stone will absorb the colour.

About Us

Here at McGarry Memorials (Manchester) Ltd, we are professional memorial restorers. Based in Manchester, our team takes great pride in delivering to the highest standard. As a family-owned business, we are completely devoted to our customers.

All our work is carried out to the National Association of Memorial Masons (NAMM) code of practice. Furthermore, it can be carried out onsite or in our workshop. Depending on the condition of the existing gravestone, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.