What Is the Best Way to Clean Taxidermy Mounts
The best way to clean taxidermy mounts is to dust them once a week to prevent a buildup of dust and dirt.
Additionally, a thorough cleaning once a year is recommended.
To create a cleaning solution, mix mild detergent with water.
Use a damp rag to wipe down the mount in the natural direction of the animal’s hair.
Compressed air can be used to clean hard surfaces of the habitat.
Delicate features such as grasses and flowers should be dusted with care.
Bird and waterfowl trophies can be feather dusted, but not wet cleaned.
Fish trophies can be wiped with a damp rag, being cautious with the fins.
Antlers and horns should be cleaned regularly with a damp rag.
The glass eyes of the trophy can be cleaned with household glass cleaning solution using a Q-tip.
For a fresh and glossy look, clear sealers like Mod Podge can be used on the nose.
Avoid using chemical-based household cleaners as they can leave an oily residue.
Cowboy Magic can be used on longhaired mounts to add shine, while Mount Medix is recommended for mounts that need help with bugs.
Exposure to excessive smoke, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent discoloration.
When storing mounts, choose rooms with consistent temperature and humidity levels, avoiding attics and basements with intense temperature fluctuations.
By forming a routine habit of consistent care and attention, the vibrancy and realism of the mounts can be preserved.
Did You Know?
1. Did you know that taxidermy mounts can be cleaned using cornstarch? Simply apply a thin layer of cornstarch onto the mount and let it sit for a few hours, then brush it off gently with a soft bristle brush. The cornstarch effectively absorbs grease and dirt, leaving the mount clean and restored.
2. Taxidermy mounts should never be cleaned with water or any liquid cleaning products. Water can damage and weaken the structure of the mount, and certain cleaning chemicals can cause discoloration or even dissolve the fur or feathers. It’s always best to stick to dry cleaning methods.
3. To remove dust from taxidermy mounts, you can use a hairdryer on its cool setting. Set the dryer to low speed and gently blow the dust away from the mount. This method is particularly effective for delicate mounts like birds, as it avoids any physical contact that could damage them.
4. If you notice any insects or bugs on your taxidermy mounts, you can use freezing as a non-toxic method of pest control. Place the mount inside a sealed bag and freeze it for about a week. The extreme cold will kill any pests or eggs present without causing any harm to the mount.
5. Cleaning taxidermy mounts regularly is important not only for aesthetics but also for their preservation. Dust accumulation can attract moisture and promote mold growth, causing irreversible damage. By keeping your mounts clean, you are ensuring their longevity and maintaining their overall appearance.
Regular Dusting To Prevent Dust And Dirt Buildup
Regular maintenance and care are crucial for maintaining the natural beauty of taxidermy mounts. One of the most important tasks for upkeep is regular dusting to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt. Dusting should be done at least once a week to ensure that the mount remains clean and free from debris.
To effectively dust taxidermy mounts, you have a few options. You can use a soft, dry cloth or a feather duster. It is essential to be gentle while dusting to avoid damaging the mount. Begin by dusting the larger areas, such as the body and limbs. Then, move on to the smaller and more delicate features, such as grasses and flowers. When dusting these delicate features, exercise precision and care by using a soft brush or a can of compressed air to gently remove any dust.
Yearly Thorough Cleaning Recommendations
While regular dusting is essential, it is recommended to conduct a more thorough cleaning of the mount once a year to ensure optimal condition. A mild detergent mixed with water should be used for this thorough cleaning. The cleaning solution should be applied to a damp cloth, and the mount should be wiped down in the natural direction of the animal’s hair.
During the yearly cleaning, special attention should be given to different parts of the mount. Here are some specific guidelines:
- Bird and waterfowl trophies: Feather dusting is recommended instead of wet cleaning to prevent damage to delicate feathers.
- Fish trophies: Gently wipe with a damp cloth, taking care with the fins.
- Antlers and horns: Clean regularly with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
Remember to always handle mounts with care and avoid using harsh chemicals that could potentially damage them.
Proper Cleaning Solutions For Different Taxidermy Mounts
When cleaning taxidermy mounts, using the right cleaning solutions is crucial. Here are some tips:
- For general cleaning, mix a mild detergent with water.
- Avoid using chemical-based household cleaners like Pledge, as they can leave behind an oily residue that can damage the mount over time.
- For delicate features such as the eyes, use a household glass cleaning solution. A gentle wipe with a cloth should be enough to clean the glass eyes without causing any damage.
- To clean hard-to-reach areas, try using a Q-tip.
- For a new and shiny appearance, consider using a clear sealer like Mod Podge to enhance the overall appearance of the mount.
Careful Wiping Techniques For Different Mount Surfaces
Different mount surfaces require different wiping techniques to ensure their cleanliness without causing any damage. Hard surfaces of the mount and the habitat can be cleaned using a can of compressed air to blow away any dust or debris gently. This method is particularly effective for reaching crevices and hard-to-reach areas.
For longhaired mounts, a product like Cowboy Magic is recommended to add shine and luster to the hair. This specialized formula is designed to restore the natural beauty of longhaired mounts without causing any harm. Additionally, for mounts that need help with bugs, products like Mount Medix can be used. This natural insect-repellent uses ingredients that are safe for taxidermy mounts and leaves behind a fresh minty scent.
Additional Tips For Preserving And Maintaining Taxidermy Mounts
In addition to regular cleaning, there are several other factors to consider when it comes to preserving and maintaining taxidermy mounts.
1. Avoid exposing mounts to excessive smoke, especially cigarette and cigar smoke. This can cause a buildup of residue and can be harmful to the mount’s appearance and overall quality.
2. Limit the touching of mounts to avoid disrupting natural hair patterns. The oils from our skin can cause discoloration and damage to the hair. Therefore, it is recommended to handle taxidermy mounts with clean, dry hands to minimize any potential harm.
3. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight as they can cause discoloration and damage to the mount over time. It is best to display the mounts in rooms with consistent temperature and humidity levels, and to avoid storing them in attics or basements with intense temperature fluctuations.
4. Form a routine habit of consistent care and attention to preserve the vibrancy and realism of taxidermy mounts. Following the suggested cleaning methods and adhering to the recommended maintenance guidelines will ensure that these unique pieces of art can be enjoyed for years to come.
- Dusting once a week is crucial to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt.
- Conduct a yearly thorough cleaning using a mild detergent mixed with water.
- Use proper cleaning solutions for different mounts, and employ careful wiping techniques for different surfaces.
“In conclusion, taxidermy mounts require regular and thorough cleaning to preserve their natural beauty. Dusting once a week is crucial to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt. Additionally, a yearly thorough cleaning should be conducted using a mild detergent mixed with water. Proper cleaning solutions should be used for different mounts, and careful wiping techniques should be employed for different surfaces. In addition to cleaning, it is important to follow additional tips for preserving and maintaining taxidermy mounts, such as avoiding exposure to smoke and extreme temperatures. By following these guidelines and establishing a routine care routine, taxidermy mounts can be kept in optimal condition, showcasing their natural beauty for years to come.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean trophy mounts?
To clean trophy mounts, it is essential to maintain the features and details of the mount. Regular cleaning of antlers and horns can be done by using a damp rag to keep them looking good. For the glass eyes, a Q-tip and household glass cleaning solution can be used to provide them with a shine that makes them look new. Additionally, the nose can be easily wiped down, similar to how you would clean fur.
How do you clean fur on mounted animals?
To clean fur on mounted animals, it is important to go with the direction of the coat when using any cleaning tool, such as a vacuum or feather duster. Care should be taken to move the tool in an up and down motion over the entire length of the mount, whether it is a full body or shoulder mount. For any hair that appears out of place after the cleaning process, a soft bristled brush can be used to gently fix and arrange the fur accordingly.
Is salt used in taxidermy?
Yes, salt is indeed used in taxidermy. Since the 17th century, taxidermists have utilized a combination of salt and potash alum to tan and preserve animal skins in natural history museums. These substances effectively prevent decay and maintain the integrity of small to medium mammal skins for scientific and educational purposes, as documented by Kuckhan in 1770. The use of salt in taxidermy has stood the test of time and remains a vital component in the preservation process.
How long do taxidermy mounts last?
The longevity of taxidermy mounts depends on several factors. Without proper maintenance, taxidermy can last around 20 years. However, with appropriate care and preservation methods, taxidermy can remain in excellent condition for 50 years or more. Extreme temperatures, humidity, exposure to light, bugs, and human touch are all factors that can contribute to the deterioration and reduced lifespan of taxidermy mounts. Therefore, ensuring proper environmental conditions and limiting handling can significantly extend the lifespan of taxidermy artworks.
