How to Clean Deer Mounts (The Right Way)
If you have a deer mount hanging in your home, you already know it is more than décor. It represents a season, a memory, a moment that mattered. Over time, though, even the best mount will collect dust or can attract bugs. The hair can start to look dull, the eyes lose their clarity, and the antlers take on a faded appearance. That is when most hunters head to Google and type in how to clean deer mounts.
The problem is that the advice online is all over the place. Some people recommend furniture polish. Others swear by glass cleaner. You will see suggestions like mineral spirits, horse grooming spray, and even WD-40. While some of those methods may remove surface dust, many of them leave behind residue, dry out the hide, or slowly compromise the long-term integrity of the mount.
Cleaning a deer mount should not feel like a guessing game. The goal is not just to wipe away dust. The goal is to preserve realism and detail for decades. In this guide, we will walk through the safest way to clean a deer mount, explain what to avoid, and show why using a taxidermy-specific cleaner and conditioner like TrophyKlean is the easiest and most reliable approach.
Why Cleaning Deer Mounts Matters
Dust is not just cosmetic.
Over time it:
• Dries out hair
• Dulls natural color
• Traps moisture
• Encourages insects
• Accelerates fading
If you want your deer mount to look like the day you picked it up from your taxidermist, cleaning is not optional.
Cleaning a Deer Mount (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1: Start With Dust Removal
Use one of the following:
• A soft bristle upholstery brush
• A microfiber cloth
• TrophyKlean (the all-in-one solution for every step in this guide)
Always move in the direction the hair lays.
This removes surface dust safely without pushing debris deeper into the hair.
Step 2: Cleaning the Hide and Fur
This is where most people mess up.
Avoid:
• Harsh chemicals
• Vacuum Cleaner
TrophyKlean is what you’re looking for. Spray down the mount, brush in the solution and wipe down with a cloth.
Why TrophyKlean Is Safer Than Other Cleaners
Many household cleaners contain:
• Silicone
• Oils
• Ammonia
• Wax residues
These leave buildup that attracts dust and can discolor hair over time.
TrophyKlean was designed specifically for taxidermy surfaces. It cleans and conditions without damaging the hide.
This is especially important for older mounts.
Step 3: Cleaning the Antlers
Antlers are porous. Do not soak them.
Lightly wipe with:
• A dry microfiber cloth
If you’re looking to revive antler color then you need to check out one of our most popular products, Antler Stain. It’ll take your antlers from white and chalky to an organic natural color in no time.
Include Image 3: Cleaning antlers with microfiber
Alt text: cleaning antlers on deer mount
Step 4: Cleaning the Eyes
Glass eyes collect film over time.
Use:
• A Q-tip lightly dampened with glass cleaner
or
• Use TrophyKlean with the cloth provided. Lightly dampen the cloth and wipe.
Gently wipe. Do not flood the eye socket.
Step 5: Cleaning the Nose
The nose can dull over time.
Clean gently with a cloth that’s been sprayed lightly with TrophyKlean.
Step 6 (optional): Fluffing the Hair
If you feel like the fur on your mount is not laying correctly, you can use a hair dryer (NO HEAT! COOL SETTING ONLY) to help get things looking natural.
Include Image 6: Fluffing deer mount hair with cool air
Alt text: using cool air to fluff deer mount hair
Mount Placement Matters
Even the best cleaning routine cannot overcome:
• Direct sunlight
• High humidity
• Smoke exposure
• Extreme temperature swings
If possible, keep mounts in climate-controlled spaces.
Quick Reference Summary: How to Clean Deer Mounts
Use TrophyKlean to:
Remove loose dust
Wipe hide with microfiber cloth
Then
Clean antlers gently with a dry microfiber cloth. Use Antler Stain by VAT to revive antler color if needed.
Clean eyes
Restore nose shine if needed
Fluff hair with cool air (optional)
This is the safe, professional process that anyone can do at home to keep their mounts looking pristine.
FAQ
How Often Should You Clean Deer Mounts?
• Cleaning and conditioning with TrophyKlean every 6 months is recommended
• Inspect for insects annually
Best products for taxidermy cleaning
The best products are those designed specifically for taxidermy. Professional cleaners like TrophyKlean are formulated to remove dust and surface grime without damaging hide, hair, or finish. Avoid harsh household chemicals that leave residue.
How to clean a taxidermy mount without damaging it
Use a taxidermy cleaner/conditioner such as TrophyKlean. This is important as it is designed specifically for mounts and can help avoid ruining your hard earned trophy. Spray, brush and wipe.
Does dust harm taxidermy?
Yes. Dust attracts moisture and insects and can dry out hair over time. Regular maintenance significantly extends the life and appearance of a mount.
Does TrophyKlean work on other types of mounts?
Yes, TrophyKlean works on other species other than Deer. We often see it used on Elk, Antelope, Moose, Bear, Sheep, etc.