Headstone Cleaning Services Pricing
How Much Do Headstone Cleaning Services Cost?
Most of our headstone cleaning services pricing ranges between $100 – $300 depending on the size of the headstone. Headstones typically vary in size depending on the type as well cemetery regulations. The larger the headstone the more cleaning solution and gentle scrubbing, inlay cleaning & rinsing is needed and this can add additional hours to the overall job of properly cleaning your loved one’s headstone & grave plot.


Flat Marker (or Grave Marker)
$100 – $125
Width: 24–36 inches
Length: 12–18 inches
Thickness: 4–6 inches

Standard Upright Headstone (Flat or Slanting)
$125 – $175
Width: 24–36 inches (2–3 feet)
Height: 48–60 inches (4–5 feet) for an upright
Thickness: 4–6 inches

Large Upright Headstone (or Monument)
$175 – $300
Width: 48–72 inches (3 – 6 feet)
Height: 24–60 inches
Depth: 14–18 inches
Headstone Cleaning DIY (do it yourself)
If you would rather handle your own headstone or grave marker cleaning these are the products we recommend. Please note that D2 Biological Solution is only sold through select suppliers and is not available through most retailers nor is Memorial Stone Care an affiliate for D2. A good replacement for this is Wet & Forget or Prosoco ReVive if you don’t want to go through the hassle of tracking down a D2 supplier. Overall this is cheaper than our headstone cleaning services pricing.
- Wet & Forget Concentrate Outdoor Cleaner removes green and black stains caused by moss, mold, mildew, and algae, no scru…
- Surfaces including driveway, patio, roof, siding, deck, vinyl, wood, concrete, canvas, aluminum, and upholstery
- Mix 1 part Wet & Forget with 5 parts water in a garden sprayer, spray dry surface on a cool day to avoid rapid evaporati…

- ReVive works over time to clean headstones, gravestones, monuments and other masonry surfaces. It may take two or more w…
- Many types of biological stains change color when exposed to ReVive. Most surface discoloration will disappear soon afte…
- Simple Process: Dilute with clean water, apply to dry surface, wait 3 minutes, scrub gently, rinse with water. Allow two…
Discounts & Reduced Service Costs
If your family member or loved one was a US Serviceman or Servicewoman we provide a 10% discount on any headstone cleaning service. For elderly or those not financially able to afford our pricing we offer a once per month 75% reduced pricing (just enough to cover gas & cleaning solution) for headstone cleaning based off of a randomized raffle system. If you would like to take us up on this please email info@memorialstonecare.com and put “Headstone Raffle” in the regarding line of the email. We hope to expand on this in the future but for now this is all we can afford to do.
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Headstone Cleaning Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best thing to clean a gravestone?
The safest approach is clean water and soft natural brushes first—no harsh chemicals or abrasive tools. Use only solutions approved by the National Cemetery Administration for stubborn biological stains like lichen or algae, gently scrub, and rinse thoroughly. This method preserves stone integrity and ensures long-lasting gravestone maintenance.
Can you use Dawn to clean a headstone?
A very mild dish soap like Dawn mixed with water may remove light dirt—but only in small amounts and rinsed thoroughly with clean water. It’s far gentler than bleach or acidic cleaners, but still not as ideal as approved biodegradable cleaning solutions we use professionally.
How much does it cost to have a headstone cleaned?
Our headstone cleaning services pricing vary based on the size, condition, and location of the headstone or grave marker. Basic headstone cleaning services typically start around $75–125, with routine gravestone cleaning packages available. For exact pricing, contact us with details or photos for a free estimate.
Is it illegal to clean gravestones without permission?
Yes, many cemeteries prohibit cleaning memorials without prior written permission from cemetery management or the grave owner. Always check with the cemetery before attempting any cleaning. If done improperly, unauthorized cleaning may be seen as vandalism.
Is it disrespectful to clean gravestones?
Not when done correctly. Our approach is professional and respectful, using only approved cleaners, soft brushes, and gentle rinsing. We clean only stable headstones, never disturb inscriptions or delicate surfaces, and always honor the dignity of the memorial.
Who is responsible for cleaning gravestones?
Typically, responsibility lies with the family members or plot owners. In some cemeteries, the grounds staff maintain common areas but not individual tombstones. That’s where a professional headstone cleaning service like ours steps in.
Can you go clean headstones at the cemetery?
Only with express permission from cemetery management. Unauthorized cleaning, especially using power tools or harmful chemicals, is usually forbidden and may result in penalties.
Is it illegal to take pictures of gravestones?
Generally, no—most cemeteries allow photography of headstones in public burial areas. However, always follow cemetery rules and respect the privacy of other visitors and graves.
How to respectfully clean a grave?
Use:
-Only approved cleaning solutions, no bleach or acid
–Soft brushes or plastic scrapers
-Plenty of rinse water
-Gentle circular motions—starting from the bottom up
-Careful cleaning of both the headstone and the immediate gravesite area
Do you need a license to clean gravestones?
In California, no professional license is required for cleaning headstones—unless you’re performing structural repairs or foundation work. Our services focus solely on cleaning and maintenance, so no license is needed.
How long does headstone cleaning last?
A professional headstone cleaning typically lasts 12 to 24 months, depending on the local climate, tree coverage, and type of stone. In areas with frequent rain, pollen, or shade, moss and algae may return sooner. Many families choose annual gravestone maintenance to keep the memorial looking respectful and clean year-round.
Can headstone cleaning damage the stone?
Yes — improper cleaning methods like pressure washing, acidic cleaners, or wire brushes can permanently damage the stone’s surface. We use only manual techniques, biodegradable solutions approved by the National Cemetery Administration, and non-invasive tools to safely preserve the integrity of each grave marker.
What products should not be used on gravestones?
Avoid bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or household cleaners not designed for historic stone. These can cause etching, staining, or erosion, especially on older marble or limestone monuments. Stick to pH-neutral solutions or professional-grade cleaners specifically designed for memorial stone care.
Do I need to wet the stone before cleaning?
Yes — always saturate the headstone with clean water before applying any cleaner. This helps prevent staining and allows grime to loosen more effectively. We follow this best practice on every job to ensure safe, thorough tombstone cleaning without harming the stone.