Grave care leaves behind leaves, branches, wilted flowers, packaging and burnt-out candles. There is especially much waste in autumn: even a small plot can produce several heavy bags of leaves.
Cleaning a grave is only complete once the collected waste has been taken to the designated disposal area. A tidy grave and clean surroundings are both part of caring for the cemetery.
Separate Waste as You Work
It is easier to collect plant waste separately from plastic and other rubbish from the start. This saves you from having to sort through bags of wet leaves at the bins.
Cleaning a grave plot usually produces two main types of waste:
- Plant waste: fallen leaves, grass cuttings, weeds, wilted fresh flowers and small branches.
- Other waste: candle containers, lids, plastic pots, packaging, ribbons and artificial flowers.
Before disposing of a bouquet or wreath, separate the natural plant material from plastic wrapping, wire and decorative elements wherever possible. Plastic bags should not be left with plant waste either: empty the contents into the designated area, then take the bag home for reuse or put it in the appropriate bin.
Follow the signs at the waste collection area. Sorting arrangements may vary between cemeteries. Not every plastic item belongs in a bin intended for packaging.
Find the Waste Collection Area Before You Start
If you are visiting an unfamiliar cemetery, try to find out in advance where the bins and plant waste collection area are located. This will save you from searching while carrying heavy bags after cleaning.
Check the information at the entrance, look for signs along the paths or ask the cemetery caretaker. It is also useful to find out where the water point is.
Do not fill bags to the brim. Wet leaves weigh considerably more than dry ones, so several smaller loads are easier to carry than one overfilled bag.
If the Bin Is Full or You Cannot Find It
Leaving bags beside a fence, behind trees or on an unused plot is a poor choice, even if someone else has already left rubbish there. Such piles can quickly turn into unofficial dumping sites.
If the bin is full, ask the cemetery administration whether another disposal area is available. If you cannot find a suitable place, take the waste with you and find out where it can be disposed of.
Avoid taking waste to another cemetery without permission: its bins are intended for waste from its own grounds.
Why Cemeteries Need Clear Signs
Not every visitor knows the cemetery grounds well. Some visit only a few times a year, some are finding a relative’s grave for the first time, and others are helping elderly loved ones with cleaning.
A “No Dumping” sign states a prohibition but does not answer the main question: where should the waste go? A sign pointing to the nearest designated waste collection area is especially helpful alongside it.
Keeping the grounds tidy is easier when the following are clearly marked:
- bins for mixed waste;
- collection areas for leaves and other plant waste;
- water points;
- toilets and exits.
A map at the entrance helps visitors get their bearings, while signs at junctions and along paths provide directions where they are needed. Clear wording and simple symbols are especially useful for elderly visitors.
How to Reduce Waste
A few simple habits can help keep grave care tidy:
- bring your tools in a reusable bag;
- reuse sturdy leaf bags for as long as they remain serviceable;
- take home pots and plant containers that can be used again;
- remove unnecessary packaging from flowers;
- regularly clear away burnt-out candles and damaged decorations.
Before leaving, check both the grave itself and the nearby path. Lightweight packaging, pieces of plastic wrapping and ribbons can blow away while you work.
Keeping the Cemetery Clean Is a Shared Responsibility
Cleanliness depends on both waste collection arrangements and considerate visitors. Accessible bins, timely emptying and visible signs help everyone finish cleaning properly.
Angelio provides cleaning and grave care at cemeteries. If visiting the cemetery, cleaning the plot and carrying away the collected waste is difficult for you, we can help care for the resting place.
To discuss grave care or visit angelio.ee.