How to Care for a Deer Mount

You want your prize deer mount to look as good as it did the day you brought it home from the taxidermist. A few simple steps, performed two or three times a year, will keep your trophy looking its best. The coat will be clean and the eyes and nose shiny. All that you need is probably in your home right now.

Things You'll Need

• Rag
• Paint brush
• Furniture cleaner
• Cotton swabs
• Window cleaner
• Pantyhose (optional)

Instructions

1. Protect your mount by hanging it in a safe place out of direct sunlight and away from a heat source or dampness (not over the fireplace or in a basement).

2. Dust the surface of the mount lightly. Use a clean paint brush, a slightly damp rag, or balled up pantyhose.

3. Shine the antlers with a furniture cleaner, such as Pledge, sprayed on a rag.

4. Use a cotton swab dipped in some window cleaner to shine up the eyes and nose.

5. Check for insect infestation that will destroy your mount. If found, take the mount to a taxidermist for treatment.

Tips & Warnings

• Wiping the mount with a very thin layer of your own hair conditioner will restore shine.

• Do not spray the antlers, eyes or nose directly with cleaner or overspray will get on the fur. Do not use insecticide from your local store if your mount is infested. See your taxidermist.