Houston Jewish headstones are memorials to those we’ve lost. Therefore, it makes sense that we want to keep them in good condition for years to come. Part of this involves cleaning headstones on a regular basis to remove dirt, grime, water stains, and other things that may build up on the stone. It’s important to use the correct cleaning solutions on headstones, however, or you could accidentally damage them. In this blog, we’ll give you a run down on some safe methods of cleaning Houston Jewish headstones.
If you need a headstone for your loved one, call us at (281) 888-5522.
What Kinds of Cleaning Solutions Can I Use on Houston Jewish Headstones?
So, what exactly can you use to clean Houston Jewish monuments? First, it’s important to understand that most headstones today are made of granite, which is a durable type of stone that comes in many colors. Granite is really tough and not very porous, making it perfect for long-lasting memorials. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s invincible. There are actually many cleaning products that can damage the stone over time.
Here are some things not to use on Houston Jewish headstones:
- Bleach
- Ammonia
- Vinegar
- Citrus-based cleaners
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Disinfectants
- Abrasive cleaners
These products are harsh and may damage the headstone. They may cause early deterioration, discoloration, or may even dull polished surfaces.
Instead, when cleaning headstones, you should generally start with plain water. Make sure the water is clean. You can use distilled water if you’re concerned about water spots. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the monument to remove general dirt and debris.
For really stubborn grime, you may need to use a detergent or soap of some kind to deep clean the stone. If this is the case, then opt for non-ionic detergents. These include things like most dishwashing liquids and laundry detergents. Make sure you thoroughly dilute them. Usually, all you need is a few drops to a gallon or so of water. If you’re dealing with lichen or algae on the stone, then you’ll need a biocidal agent that is safe for granite to kill it.
Whenever you use soaps or detergents to clean granite headstones, make sure you always thoroughly rinse them. Otherwise, the soap can leave a film behind that looks bad and might even cause damage to the stone when left for long periods of time.
Other Cleaning Tips for Houston Monuments
In addition to using the right cleaning solutions to clean Houston Jewish headstones, there are other important things to keep in mind to avoid damaging the headstones during cleaning. The first is that you need to use soft tools and materials. Generally this means soft cloths and soft bristle brushes. Scouring pads, metal brushes, and other scratchy materials are off limits.
You also don’t want to overclean headstones. Too much cleaning can also damage the stone. You should stick to deep cleaning (where you use soap) to just once a year. If you notice a lot of grime between annual cleanings, you typically can clean with just water and a soft cloth. Just make sure you dry thoroughly afterwards.
Keep in mind you should never clean headstones with visible damage, as it can make the damage worse. Instead, if you go to clean a Houston Jewish monument and notice any damage, contact our team for a repair assessment first.
Memorialize Your Loved Ones with Gaitz Memorials
Our team at Gaitz Memorials is here to help you create lasting monuments for your loved ones. We specialize in Jewish headstones and assist with everything from Hebrew translation to getting rabbi approval. We offer a variety of headstone styles to choose from, including grave markers, upright headstones, and ledger cemetery markers. Our team is always here to help you and answer any questions you have, including questions about Houston headstone cost, design, and repair. Call us at (281) 888-5522 for help with your loved ones’ memorials.