Your loved one’s gravesite is going to be a very special place to you after they pass. It is a place that you can physically visit to feel close and connected to them. It’s a place where you can leave flowers and other tokens of your affection and a place where family members can visit for years to come. Keeping this special place clean and in good shape is important. To learn how to best maintain your loved one’s gravesite directors of Allentown, PA funeral homes share these tips. 

General Grounds Maintenance and Cleaning 

While many cemeteries have ground, maintaining the induvial gravesites oftentimes falls onto the family. To keep the gravesite looking nice, there are a few things to pay special attention to. These include: 

• Clearing away debris- Make sure the site is clean and free of any debris such as sticks, rocks, or trash 
  
• Clean up leaves- Rake any leaves off the site and discard 
  
• Healthy grass- Make sure the grass is healthy and watered. Add grass seed to any bare spaces. 

Headstone Maintenance 

Once the ground of the gravesite is clear of debris and trash, turn your attention to the headstone. First, it is important to clean this monument. Depending on what type of material you have chosen, you may use a different cleaning solution. Always check with your headstone provider to ensure you are using a solution that is appropriate for the material and will not damage it over time. In general, here are a few times of headstone materials as well as the best way to clean them: 

Granite, Slate, Sandstone Headstones 

• Soak the entire headstone with clean water. You can do this by using a hose, spray bottle, or pouring water over the headstone with a bucket. 
  
• Use a non-ionic detergent and mix one ounce to 5 gallons of water 
  
• Use a soft bristled brush and gently scrub the headstone 
  
• Make sure to rinse completely with clean water 

Marble Headstones 

• Start by soaking the stone with water. This can be done by using a spray bottle, hose, or bucket. 
  
• Create a mixture of ammonium hydroxide and water at a 1:4 ratio. Then, using a soft bristled brush apply the mixture and gently scrub the headstone. 
• Rinse the headstone thoroughly with water 

While you are cleaning the headstone, it is important to inspect it for any damage. Are there any cracks or chips? Maybe the engraving is becoming cloudy. Make note of any damage and make the necessary arrangements to have it addressed by professionals. 

Gravesite Décor 

Once the gravesite grounds and headstone have been cleaned, make sure any décor such as flowers, flags, or other mementos, are in good shape. If not, discard or replace. Also, it is important to note here that you want to make sure you are leaving décor that is in line with the cemetery guidelines. This will ensure your décor stays up at the site. 

Following these tips will help your loved one’s gravesite be a place that is peaceful and calm and gives them the respect they deserve after their services from Allentown, PA funeral homes. 

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