To prepare horns for processing, their external surface simply needs to be washed in cold water containing a little detergent. The remains of ligaments adhering to the inside of the horn may be removed by swabbing with a long-handled brush or mop while keeping the inside full of soapy water (figures I.6 and I.7). Horns should not be washed in hot water as this dissolves the keratin and reduces the lustre of the horn when polished.

Figure I.4: Boiling of horns

Figure I.5: Removal of the core

Figure I.6: Cleaning the inside of a horn

Figure I.7: Cleaning equipment - Long-handled brush

Figure I.7: Cleaning equipment - Long-handled mop