To clean bones at home, degrease them by soaking in soapy water. Here's a more detailed process:
Cleaning Bones at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
This guide outlines the process for cleaning bones at home, focusing on removing tissue and degreasing.
1. Initial Cleaning: Removing Soft Tissue
- Remove Excess Tissue: Manually remove as much flesh, muscle, and other soft tissue as possible. Use tools like knives, scrapers, or even a pressure washer on a low setting for larger bones. Be careful not to damage the bone.
- Simmering (Optional, But Effective): Simmering the bones can help loosen remaining tissue.
- Place bones in a large pot and cover with water.
- Simmer (do not boil) for a few hours. Check regularly and remove tissue as it loosens.
- Be careful as boiling can damage the bone.
2. Degreasing the Bones
- Soak in Soapy Water: This is a crucial step to remove grease from the bone, preventing future yellowing and odors.
- Fill a container with water and add a generous amount of dish soap (Dawn is often recommended).
- Submerge the bones completely in the soapy water.
- Let the bones soak for 24 hours or longer, depending on the size and greasiness of the bone.
- Change the soapy water regularly (every day or two) until the water remains clear. This indicates that most of the grease has been removed.
- Alternative Degreasing Methods (Optional):
- Ammonia Soak: A solution of diluted ammonia (e.g., 1 part ammonia to 9 parts water) can be used for degreasing. Use caution as ammonia is a hazardous material. Wear gloves and eye protection, and work in a well-ventilated area. Soak for several days, checking regularly.
3. Whitening the Bones (Optional)
- Hydrogen Peroxide Soak: If you want to whiten the bones, use hydrogen peroxide. Use caution, as high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide can be dangerous. Wear gloves and eye protection.
- Soak the bones in a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution (available at most drugstores) until the desired whiteness is achieved. This may take several days.
- Avoid using bleach, as it can damage the bone over time.
- Sun Bleaching: Exposing the bones to direct sunlight after cleaning can also help to naturally whiten them.
4. Final Rinse and Drying
- Rinse Thoroughly: After degreasing and whitening, rinse the bones thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining soap or chemicals.
- Dry Completely: Allow the bones to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area. This can take several days. Make sure the bones are fully dry before storing them.
Important Considerations:
- Safety First: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling bones, especially during the cleaning process.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area, especially when using chemicals like ammonia or hydrogen peroxide.
- Respect for Remains: Handle bones with respect, especially if they are from an animal.
- Legal Considerations: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding the possession of animal bones, especially if they are from protected or endangered species.
