Cleaning the Fossils

• Many fossils will have dirt, sand, algae, barnacles, etc. attached to them. It is very important to get these off to restore the fossil. Scrub the the fossil thoroughly with a toothbrush. This will help remove any loose dirt or sand. Pour 4 cups of apple cider vinegar and 4 cups of water in to a small bowl. Stir the ingredients together with a spoon to combine. Place your fossil into the bowl of the vinegar and water. Allow it to soak for about one to two hours. When finished, take the fossil out and scrub away the rest of the fossil. Any ingrained dirt and sand or any algae and barnacles will come off with ease.
  
  

Polishing the Fossil

• Soak the fossil in regular tap water for one to two hours. Pour a quarter-sized drop of liquid antibacterial soap onto the fossil. Rub the soap into the fossil using your fingers under running water until the water runs clear. The antibacterial soap will not only help to finish cleaning the fossil, but it will polish the fossil, giving it a nice shine.