How To Clean A Deer Skull Cap

How to Clean a Deer Skull Cap: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning a deer skull cap can be a rewarding experience, resulting in a unique and fascinating piece for display or study. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process to effectively clean your deer skull cap while preserving its integrity.

Essential Tools and Materials:

Before you begin, gather these necessary items:

• Safety Gear: Gloves, eye protection, and a mask are crucial for protecting yourself from potential hazards.
• Skull Cap: Ensure it's completely detached from the rest of the skull.
• Large Container: A bucket or tub large enough to submerge the skull cap.
• Water: Plenty of clean water for rinsing and soaking.
• Enzyme Cleaner: A degreasing agent designed for bones. This is crucial for effective cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
• Soft-Bristled Brushes: Various sizes for scrubbing different areas.
• Hydrogen Peroxide (Optional): For whitening the skull cap. This is optional, but preferred by many.
• Paper Towels: For drying and cleaning.
• Borax (Optional): A natural desiccant to aid in drying.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:

1. Initial Cleaning:

• Remove any remaining tissue: Carefully scrape off as much soft tissue as possible using a blunt instrument. Be gentle to avoid damaging the bone.

2. Enzyme Soak:

• Prepare the solution: Mix the enzyme cleaner according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Submerge the skull cap: Place the skull cap in the container and completely submerge it in the enzyme solution.
• Soaking time: Allow the skull cap to soak for several days, or even weeks, depending on the amount of remaining tissue. Regularly check and change the solution as needed. The solution will become noticeably darker as it works.

3. Scrubbing and Rinsing:

• Remove and scrub: Once the soaking is complete, remove the skull cap and use your soft-bristled brushes to gently scrub away any remaining tissue and debris.
• Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the skull cap under running water until all traces of the enzyme cleaner are removed.

4. Whitening (Optional):

• Hydrogen Peroxide Treatment: If desired, soak the skull cap in a hydrogen peroxide solution (concentration depends on desired level of whitening – test a small area first). Monitor carefully as it can also damage bone if left too long. Rinse thoroughly afterward.

5. Drying and Finishing:

• Air drying: Allow the skull cap to air dry completely. This might take several days or even weeks depending on size and environment. Good air circulation is key.
• Borax (Optional): For faster drying, you can use borax. However, ensure it's thoroughly rinsed afterward.

6. Display and Storage:

• Proper display: Once completely dry, display your cleaned deer skull cap proudly! Consider a display case to protect it from dust and damage.

Tips for Success:

• Patience is Key: Cleaning a skull cap is a process that requires time and patience. Don't rush any steps.
• Safety First: Always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate protective gear.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation during the cleaning and drying processes.

By following these steps carefully, you can achieve a beautifully cleaned deer skull cap suitable for display or study. Remember that this is a natural process, and minor imperfections may remain, adding to its unique character.