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Q&A for How to Clean a Feather
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QuestionWhat percentage of hydrogen peroxide do I need?Community AnswerIt doesn't really matter, as long as it's for medical use, it should be fine. Just make sure it's for medical use and not lab use, as the latter has a much higher percentage.
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QuestionWhat are some parasites that ducks carry?Community AnswerDucks usually carry mites and lice. Mites are kinda like spiders as they are eight legged and kind of jump, lice are itchy and like to hop into other fabric or hair.
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QuestionDo I have to use mothballs if I use the peroxide and rubbing alcohol for a long time and then wash the feather with soap and water?Community AnswerProbably not, as most things can't survive in alcohol and peroxide for long. However, I would leave the feather in the solution for longer to be certain.
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QuestionCan the mentioned methods chemically harm the feathers?Community AnswerIf you use these methods, they won't be chemically harmed. I have cleaned multiple feathers using both methods, and they weren't ruined or damaged.
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QuestionWould freezing them work just as well?Community AnswerYes, for mites, freezing works instead of the mothballs.
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QuestionDo eagle feathers found on the ground have mites?Zhi WangCommunity AnswerYes, they can contain mites. To get rid of the mites, you can soak the feathers in hot water and wait for 12-24 hours.
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QuestionHow do you know when it is completely clean?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererTo know if your feather is totally clean, after washing, it should feel smooth, not greasy. When dry, the feather should be fluffy and the individual strands (barbs) should separate easily. If it still looks dirty or feels oily, give it another gentle wash.
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QuestionCan we put feathers in a freezer to kill any mites or lice instead of using mothballs?Community AnswerYes. Three or four days in a plastic bag inside a freezer should do it.
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QuestionCan I dip only the ends of my peacock feathers in bleach or alcohol to sanitize them before bringing them inside?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererDipping peacock feathers in bleach or alcohol can be harsh and may damage their delicate structure and vibrant colors. Instead, gently wash them in a mild soapy solution, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry to clean without harming their natural beauty.
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QuestionDo peacock feathers carry parasites or germs?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererPeacock feathers, like those from any bird, can carry germs or parasites. It's always wise to clean them before use, especially if bringing them indoors. A gentle wash with soap and water can effectively remove most surface contaminants.
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QuestionHow do I remove the smell from my feathers?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererIf your feathers have a smell, gently clean them with soapy water and let them air dry completely. If the odor persists, sprinkle a bit of baking soda on them, leave it for a few hours, and then shake it off.
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QuestionHow should I treat emu feathers on a cloak?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererFor an emu feather cloak, treat it gently. Start by lightly brushing the feathers to remove loose dirt. For deeper cleaning, dab on a bit of mild soap and water, but avoid soaking. Always air dry it. To freshen up without water, try a garment steamer at a safe distance.
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QuestionHow can I spread out a feather after it gets wet?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererTo spread a feather after it gets wet, hold it by the quill and gently shake off excess water. Lay it flat on a clean towel and carefully spread out the barbs with your fingers or use a small, soft brush.
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QuestionHow can I spot symptoms of mites, parasites, or disease if I have handled feathers without sanitizing or cleaning them?Lina DaSilvaTop AnswererLook for symptoms like itchy skin, rash, or respiratory issues. If you notice these after handling feathers, consult a healthcare professional for advice and treatment.
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