How to Wash Moose Antlers
If you've ever wondered how to clean that trophy antler rack hanging over the fireplace, or have one gathering dust in the attic you'd like to clean up and show, don't worry. Moose antlers wash easily and can have their natural look restored with furniture polish or wax. Wood gel stains can even give the antlers a darker look to match the decor. Your moose antlers can again have a regal look with a little care and love. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Mild soap
- Bucket
- Sponge
- Cleaning rags
- Toothbrush
- Furniture polish, stain, wax or Sno-Seal (optional)
Instructions
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1
Remove any articles from the mantel and from beneath the antlers and surrounding area. Dust the antlers and the mount, and remove any cobwebs.
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2
Mix the soap with warm water to make a mild solution. Clean antlers gently with the sponge and soap solution, using care around sharp tips and tines.
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3
Use a toothbrush to gently scrub any deep furrows. Place a rag soaked in dish soap on any grease or blood spots and allow to sit to draw out the stain. Wipe with the soap solution.
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4
Remove all water and soap from the furrows, grooves and antler mount. Dry and polish the rack with clean rags. Clean dust and any liquid spills from the mantel, walls and floor.
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5
Apply finish to the antlers such as furniture polish or gel stains. Spray furniture polish on a clean rag and wipe the antlers to apply a soft finish. Apply wood gel stains with a rag to darken the antler color for a different look. Re-apply polish or stain every six months to keep the finish looking new.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure new antlers are properly dried before cleaning or mounting by storing in a dry place away from pets and pests for three to four months.
Spray furniture polish works well as a finish and doesn't leave a bright shine. Wood gel stains will help restore faded gray antlers and give a deeper color, and don't drip. Try in an inconspicuous area first to test the effect.
Apply furniture wax or Sno-Seal to give a new look and protect from dry air from the fireplace and furnace.
Be careful if attempting to clean antlers mounted high on walls. Check that the antlers are attached securely before cleaning, or remove to a safe place. Do not place your weight on the mount or antlers and make sure the ladder is on a firm, non-slip surface.
Using wax or oils for polishing antlers can leave them prone to collecting dust. If antlers are hard to reach and dusting is a problem, consider using a dry finish.
