How to Remove Moss and Lichen From a Headstone Safely

Moss, lichen and algae grow on headstones in shade and damp. They can be removed safely with patience.

What you need

• Plenty of clean water
• Soft natural-bristle brushes
• Plastic or wooden scrapers
• A biological cleaner made for stone (many conservators and cemeteries use these)

Steps

1. Soak the stone thoroughly with water — growths lift more easily when wet.
2. Gently lift loose moss with a plastic or wooden scraper.
3. Apply a stone-safe biological cleaner following the label.
4. Brush gently in small circles, top to bottom.
5. Rinse well. Many biological cleaners keep working over the following weeks as residue fades.

Never use

• Bleach — it can stain and leaves salts in the stone
• Wire brushes or metal scrapers
• Pressure washers
• Household cleaners and acids

Lichen on old marble

Old marble and sandstone are fragile. Soak and wait rather than scrape — see cleaning a marble headstone.

Prevention

More sun and airflow reduce growth. Ask the cemetery about overhanging branches.

Key Takeaways

• Soak first, then lift gently with plastic tools.
• Use a biological cleaner made for stone.
• Never use bleach, wire brushes or pressure washers.

Next Step

See our main cleaning guide.