Bleaching a deer skull with Oxiclean is a popular method that can yield excellent results. Oxiclean is a versatile cleaning agent that can effectively remove stains, including discoloration on animal skulls. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to bleach a deer skull with Oxiclean, along with some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you achieve the best results.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Deer skull
- Oxiclean (sodium percarbonate)
- Plastic container or tub large enough to submerge the skull
- Safety goggles
- Rubber gloves
- Old clothes or an apron (to protect clothing)
- Soft-bristle brush (toothbrush works well)
- Plastic sheet or tarp (to protect your work area)
- Timer or clock
- Water
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear safety goggles and rubber gloves when working with Oxiclean, as it can irritate the skin and eyes.
- Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhaling fumes.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
- Oxiclean may bleach fabric, so wear old clothes or an apron that you don’t mind getting stained.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bleach a Deer Skull with Oxiclean
1. Prepare Your Work Area:
- Lay down a plastic sheet or tarp to protect the surface you’ll be working on.
2. Remove Flesh and Tissue:
- In the field, remove as much flesh and tissue as possible from the deer skull. This minimizes odor during the bleaching process.
- Use a knife to carefully remove the hide, ears, and eyes.
- Dispose of any scraps in a secure trash bag to prevent attracting pests.
3. Mix the Oxiclean Solution:
- Fill a plastic container or tub with warm water.
- Add Oxiclean to the water according to the package instructions. Typically, 1-2 scoops per gallon of water should suffice.
- Stir the solution until the Oxiclean is fully dissolved.
4. Submerge the Skull:
- Gently place the cleaned deer skull into the Oxiclean solution. Ensure it’s fully submerged.
5. Soak the Skull:
- Allow the skull to soak in the Oxiclean solution. The duration of the soak depends on the degree of discoloration and the desired level of whiteness. A typical soak time is 24-48 hours.
6. Check Progress:
- Check the skull periodically to gauge the progress. You’ll notice the water turning brown as it absorbs impurities from the skull.
7. Scrub if Necessary:
- After soaking, use a soft-bristle brush (a toothbrush works well) to gently scrub away any remaining discoloration or stains.
8. Rinse and Dry:
- Rinse the skull thoroughly with water to remove any remaining Oxiclean residue.
- Pat it dry with a clean cloth or rag.
- Allow the skull to air dry completely. This may take a few days.
9. Final Touches:
- Once the skull is dry, you can apply a clear sealant or lacquer to protect it and give it a glossy finish, if desired.
FAQs:
1. Can I use Oxiclean on antlers?
- Yes, you can use Oxiclean on antlers as well as the skull. Follow the same process for both.
2. How long does it take to bleach a deer skull with Oxiclean?
- The time required varies based on the initial discoloration and desired whiteness. It can take 24-48 hours of soaking.
3. Can I use Oxiclean to bleach other animal skulls?
- Yes, you can use Oxiclean to bleach the skulls of various animals. Adjust the process based on the size and type of the skull.
4. Can I use this method for older, more discolored skulls?
- Oxiclean is effective for most staining and discoloration. However, very old and heavily stained skulls may require longer soaking times or additional treatments.
5. Can I reuse the Oxiclean solution?
- It’s best to discard the solution after use and create a fresh mixture for each bleaching session for optimal results.
Summary
Bleaching a deer skull with Oxiclean is an efficient and cost-effective way to achieve a clean, bone-white appearance. Regular maintenance and proper storage will help keep your bleached skull in excellent condition for display or artistic projects.
