After the arrangements have been made, and the funeral has taken place, your loved one’s gravesite will mark a special and meaningful place for you and other family members. It is the place where your loved one is laid to rest and is the place you will visit when you want to feel close to them again. Directors of funeral homes in Lugoff, SC. understand what a special place this is and want you to be able to maintain it’s beauty for years to come. Keep reading for tips on how to care for and maintain your loved one’s gravesite.  

Caring for and Maintaining the Headstone  

Your loved one’s headstone is an important feature of the gravesite. This tribute serves as a monument to them as well as holds important information such as their name and dates of birth and passing. You want to keep the headstone clean and in good condition. Depending on the material of the headstone, you may need different supplies or a different cleaning technique. Some popular materials and the best method of cleaning are: 

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 

Granite, Sandstone, Slate Headstones 

• Soak the entire headstone with clean water  
• 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  

Maintenance for the Site Overall  

Many cemeteries will have grounds keepers that perform general tasks such as keeping the trees trimmed back, the grass mowed, general clean up, etc. However, if you want to keep your loved one’s gravesite looking good, you may need to do things such as: 

• Raking leaves 
• Trimming grass edges 
• Pulling weeds 
• Picking up sticks or other debris 
• Add grass seeds to any bare patches  
• Water the site 

Adding Gravesite Decorations  

Many families may wish to add decorations to their loved one’s gravesite. While this can add a nice touch and show that the family cares, there may be very specific things that are allowed (and not allowed) to be left. That is why families should always check with the cemetery before leaving any additional items.  

Final Thoughts  

While the cemetery will do its best to keep your loved one’s gravesite clean and maintained, you may wish to perform additional tasks to ensure it is maintained and as clean as you would like. Things such as raking away dead leaves to making sure the headstone is in good condition can keep your loved one’s gravesite looking its best for years to come.  

If you would like more information about keeping your loved one’s gravesite clean or other services from funeral homes in Lugoff, SC., give us a call and talk with one of our compassionate funeral directors.