Check cemetery rules and get permission if required
Wear gloves and use non-abrasive tools
Rinse the tombstone with clean water
Use a soft brush to remove loose dirt, moss, or debris
Mix a small amount of pH-neutral soap with water if needed
Gently scrub the surface with the soft brush
Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Repeat as needed for stubborn dirt
Avoid bleach, vinegar, ammonia, and harsh chemicals
Avoid wire brushes, metal tools, and pressure washers
Do not clean cracked, fragile, or unstable stones without professional help
Dry the area gently if desired
Remove weeds and debris around the base carefully
Clean only when the stone is cool and out of direct sun if possible