When you invest in a beautifully crafted taxidermy mount, you want to ensure it lasts a lifetime, maintaining its vibrant appearance and natural charm. Whether you’re a collector or a first-time buyer, proper care is essential for keeping your mount in prime condition. This blog post will cover essential cleaning, maintenance, and display tips for longevity, so your prized taxidermy pieces continue to shine.
1. Understanding Your Mounts
Taxidermy pieces come in various forms, from shoulder mounts to full-body displays. Knowing the specific type you own will help you choose the right care techniques.
At Eternal Taxidermy Mounts, you’ll find a wide selection of mounts, including:
- Shoulder mounts for sale
- Bird taxidermy mounts
- Full-body taxidermy mounts
- Fish taxidermy mounts
- Horns, antlers, and skulls
Each type requires its own method of care to maintain its unique qualities.
2. Cleaning Your Taxidermy Mounts
Dust is one of the most common culprits for dulling the appearance of your mount. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent buildup. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Use a Soft Brush: For most mounts, use a soft-bristled brush, like a makeup brush, to gently sweep off dust. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner or abrasive cloths, as these can damage the delicate fur, feathers, or scales.
- Cleaning Specific Mounts: For animals with fur, like shoulder mounts, it’s best to lightly vacuum the fur using a soft brush attachment. For bird mounts, you can use compressed air to blow away dust from hard-to-reach places like the feathers.
- Avoid Water: Never wash your taxidermy mounts with water. Moisture can lead to mold and damage to the preservation process. For stubborn dirt, use a damp cloth, but only if absolutely necessary, and dry it immediately.
3. Handling Your Mounts
Handle your taxidermy mounts carefully to avoid unintentional damage. Keep them in stable environments where they won’t be bumped or knocked over. When moving them, lift with both hands and avoid putting pressure on fragile parts, like antlers or delicate bird wings.
4. Optimal Display Conditions
The way you display your mounts greatly impacts their longevity. Here are some tips to ensure your mount stays in excellent condition:
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause fading and deterioration. Place your mounts in an area that receives diffused light, and consider using UV-protective glass if they are displayed near windows.
- Maintain Stable Temperature & Humidity: Extreme temperatures and fluctuating humidity levels can affect the materials used in taxidermy. Keep your display area at a stable temperature, ideally between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid areas with high humidity, like bathrooms or kitchens, as this can lead to mold or mildew growth.
- Proper Support: Mounts like taxidermy rugs and skins should be securely supported and placed on sturdy surfaces. Heavy mounts such as full-body displays need proper wall anchors to ensure they don’t fall.
5. Special Care for Collectibles and Decor
For collectors of unique taxidermy pieces like skulls or antler mounts, the care approach may differ. Items like taxidermy collectibles and decor can be displayed in cases or cabinets to protect them from dust and accidental damage. Use soft cloths to wipe them down, and keep them in a well-ventilated area to avoid moisture buildup.
6. Where to Find Taxidermy Pieces
If you’re looking to expand your collection, Eternal Taxidermy Mounts offers a wide variety of mounts to suit your style and preferences. From shoulder mounts to fish, birds, and even full-body displays, their catalog of taxidermy mounts for sale provides a range of options to enhance any collection.
If you’re interested in specific categories, here are some popular selections:
7. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Once you’ve displayed your mount, it’s important to perform regular maintenance. Periodically check for any signs of damage, like loose parts or fading. Taking care of minor issues early can prevent bigger problems in the future. If you notice any issues, it’s best to consult a professional taxidermist who can repair and restore your piece.
Proper care and maintenance are the keys to ensuring the longevity of your taxidermy mounts. By following these simple tips, you can protect your investment and continue to enjoy your collection for many years to come.
Visit Eternal Taxidermy Mounts for more information on how to maintain and showcase your taxidermy pieces.