CLEANING OLD DEER MOUNTS

[joetex25]

Forgive me if this has been addressed perviously, but after doing a search, I couldn't find any info on cleaning OLD deer mounts...so I'm looking for suggestions.
The eldest member of our camp has a beautiful mount in the cabin, but it's really in need of cleaning up. It has been subjected to 40 years of way too much heat, dust, and cigarette smoke.
Any suggestions on how to put some sparkle back into this head would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks in advance!
Joe

[howhill1]

with a mount that is rather aged id be carefull, you dont want it bald lol, id contact the local taxidermist and ask his opinion.

[shaman]

Probably consulting a taxi-man is the best idea.

I know that taking a vacumn cleaner and lightly going over the hair does a really good job of getting the dust off.

There is also that industrial carpet dry cleaning stuff they shake on carpets, let sit and then vacuum up.  I'd try it on a patch that doesn't show and see what it does. 

[EatDeer]

40 years old is a long time. You may have to have a new cape put on it if its too far gone. You might post a question at taxidermy .net, they will know more there. 

[joetex25]

THANKS for the input guys! You supported the thought I had...rather than further ruin the head, I need to have an expert look at it. Short of recaping the head, hopefully for "a little $$" and proper/experienced cleaning and touch up, a big improvement can be seen. If so, the smiles that will come from the owner will be well worth the investment.
Again, THANKS for taking the time to reply, and always remember to be safe!!
Joe

[Kydeerhunter03]

I have a taxidermy video that said if you take some mineral spirits and dampen a cloth with it, and gently wipe the fur it takes off alot of the cigarette stains and dirt buildup from over the years. Worked really good on the video, maybe you should try it out.

[Legnip]

Baby wipes are great for spot cleaning stuff, but I am amazed that the hair is still intact. Something that old would be best cleaned by the professionals, but it might be time for a make over. My mount lasted about 10 years. I decided to take it back to just a horn and wood plaque mount.