Last fall, I found myself with way too many acorns. They were scattered across my yard, and I didn’t want them to go to waste.
I thought they’d be perfect for seasonal decor, but I also knew if I didn’t preserve them properly, they’d mold or become a bug buffet!
Luckily, my neighbor showed me how to preserve them and I succeeded. So, let me share with you my foolproof method for preserving acorns. It’s easy, and you’ll be decorating in no time!
Step 1: Gather the Best Acorns
As tempting as it is to grab them all, you should look for solid, intact acorns.
You’ll want to avoid any with cracks, holes, or ones that feel soft, as these are more likely to be rotten or filled with insects.
Step 2: Clean the Acorns
Cleaning is crucial to get rid of dirt, mold, and hidden pests. I always start by rinsing my acorns under cold water to remove dirt.
You can use an old toothbrush to scrub off any stubborn grime. Then, fill a bowl with warm water, add a bit of dish soap, and let the acorns soak for about 10 minutes.
After they’re done soaking, I give them a good rinse again and lay them out on a towel to dry.
Step 3: Oven-Dry the Acorns
I used to air-dry them, but last year, I discovered that the oven is so much faster and more effective.
Preheat your oven to 200°F (90°C), then spread your cleaned acorns in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for 1-2 hours.
Check on them every 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even drying. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel rock-solid and sound hollow when tapped.
Step 4: Seal the Acorns
Once they’ve cooled from drying, I like to spray them with a clear, matte spray sealer to prevent any future moisture or bug issues.
Simply lay them out on a protected surface and spray an even coat.
I usually wait for the first coat to dry, and if they look good, I stop there. However, if you want extra durability, you can always add a second coat!
Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you find any acorns with holes, it’s best to toss them, as they’re likely infested.
Also, if you’re worried about pests, you can freeze the acorns for 48 hours after drying – this will kill any bugs that might still be lurking inside.
Step 6: Use Your Preserved Acorns
