Whitening a deer skull is a process that can take some time, but the results are worth it. You’ll have a beautiful trophy to hang on your wall or display in your home.
Multiple Methods For Whitening A Deer Skull
Using Borax: Borax is another effective option for whitening a deer skull. Mix borax and water in a ratio of 1:10. Soak the skull in the mixture for 24 hours, then rinse it with clean water.
Using Muriatic Acid: Muriatic acid is a strong acid used to whiten deer skulls. Mix one part of muriatic acid with nine parts of water in a bowl for this purpose.
Using Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural whitening agent—mix baking soda and water in a bowl to create a paste.
Using Dish Soap: This may seem odd, but dish soap can be pretty effective at Whitening a deer skull. Using a gentle dish soap is essential, as harsh formulas can damage the bone.
Using Essential Oils: Essential oils are a more natural way to Whiten a deer skull. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the hydrogen peroxide mixture.
Supplies Need For Whitening A Deer Skull
There are a few things you’ll need before you start whitening your deer skull. First, you’ll need to gather some supplies.
- A large plastic bin or container
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Old toothbrushes or paintbrushes
- Rubber gloves
A Course Of Action For Whitening A Deer Skull
Deer skulls can make for beautiful decorations, but they can be challenging to clean and whiten.
- Remove The Skin Layers: The first step is to remove the skin layers. This can be done with various tools, including a knife, pliers, and even your hands.
- Boil The Skull: Once the skin is removed, the next step is to boil the skull. This will help to loosen any remaining flesh and tissue. This can be done by simmering the brain in a mixture of baking soda and water for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the brain from the pot and allow it to cool. Once it’s cooled, use your hands or a brush to remove any remaining flesh or tissue.
- Remove Ear Bone: Then remove the ear bone. A sharp knife or a pair of pliers is used to do this task. Gently insert the knife or pliers into the ear’s opening and wiggle it until the ear bone pops out. Discard the ear bone and rinse the skull.
- Cleanse The Brain: The brain is the most challenging part of the deer to clean. Be very careful when cleaning the brain, as you don’t want to damage any of these delicate structures.
- Remove The Grease: One of the essential steps in whitening a deer skull is to remove all of the greases. Grease can build up on the skull over time, making it difficult to get the desired results.
- Whiten Skull With Hydrogen Peroxide: The final step is to whiten the skull with hydrogen peroxide. Soak the skull in a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water for 24 hours. After 24 hours, rinse the skull and allow it to air dry.
- Deep Wash To Rinse All Hydrogen Peroxide: After the skull has been soaked in the hydrogen peroxide mixture, it’s important to rinse it with clean water. This will help remove residual hydrogen peroxide and prevent it from damaging the skull.
- Top Coat For Protection: You can also use a top coat of paint to help protect the skull and keep the bone white. Just be sure to let the paint dry completely before adding any other products.
Most Effective Method to Whiten a Deer Skull
Using Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a good option for whitening a deer skull. Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water in a bowl to make the mixture.
How Much Hydrogen Peroxide can be Used?
The amount of hydrogen peroxide you’ll need will depend on the size of the skull. A small skull requires one cup (240 ml) of hydrogen peroxide. You’ll need 2 cups (480 ml) of hydrogen peroxide for a medium skull. And for a giant skull, you’ll need 3 cups (720 ml) of hydrogen peroxide.
It’s important to note that the concentration of the hydrogen peroxide will also affect the results. A 3% solution is typically used for this process, but a higher concentration can be used if desired.
Can Bleach be used instead of Hydrogen Peroxide for Whitening A Deer Skull?
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that won’t damage the skull. It is a much safer alternative to bleach. Bleach can damage the skull and make it more difficult to get the desired results. Hydrogen peroxide is also more effective at whitening deer skulls.
Alternatives To Hydrogen Peroxide for Whitening A Deer Skull
You can also use a hair developer if you don’t have hydrogen peroxide on hand. Hair developers are typically used to lighten hair but can also whiten deer skulls.
Paste Of Baking Soda And Hydrogen Peroxide
Make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the skull and allow it to sit for 24 hours. After 24 hours, rinse the skull with clean water.
This method is more effective than using hydrogen peroxide alone. The baking soda will help to scrub away any remaining impurities and give the skull a brighter appearance.
You can use a garbage bag if you don’t have a big container to soak the entire skull. Just be sure to put the garbage bag in a well-ventilated area, so the fumes don’t build up.
Additional Tips
- Avoid metal pan for this process.
- You can place the skull in direct sunlight if you want to speed up the whitening process.
- You can also add a few drops of essential oils to the hydrogen peroxide mixture to help mask any unpleasant smells.
- It’s important to wear rubber gloves when handling the skull, as the hydrogen peroxide can cause skin irritation.
- If you’re not planning on displaying the skull, you can skip painting it.
FAQs
What Ratio Of Baking Soda And Hydrogen Peroxide Should Be Used?
There is no set ratio, but a good starting point is 1 part baking soda to 3 parts hydrogen peroxide.
How Long Should Bones Be Allowed To Turn White?
It typically takes about 24 hours for the skull to be whitened. However, it’s important to note that the exact amount of time will depend on the size of the skull and the strength of the hydrogen peroxide solution.
How Long Do You Let A Deer Head Boil?
You should boil the deer head for at least 30 minutes. This will help loosen and remove any remaining meat.
Conclusion
Whitening a deer skull is a relatively simple process that can be done at home. Hydrogen peroxide is the best bleaching agent, as it won’t damage the skull. Be sure to follow all of the steps carefully and take precautions to avoid skin irritation. With time and effort, you’ll have a beautiful white deer skull to display.