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How to Preserve a Hollowed-Out Pumpkin Forever

While it is impossible to preserve a pumpkin forever -- since all pumpkins will eventually become moldy and decay, it is possible to delay this process. You can do this by killing the bacteria inside the pumpkin that start the decay process then applying a substance that will inhibit further bacterial growth and keep the pumpkin from drying out.

Things You'll Need

Spray bottle
Bleach or acrylic spray, hair spray, WD-40 or pumpkin preservative
Petroleum jelly, vegetable or olive oil
Rag
Paper towel

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the surface of the pumpkin with a damp rag.
- 2
  Mix a tablespoon of bleach with a quart of water and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture over the surface of the pumpkin that has been cut and allow it to absorb and dry for 20 minutes. You can also use acrylic spray, hair spray, WD-40 or a product made to preserve pumpkins. This step will kill any mold and bacteria on the surface of the pumpkin.
- 3
  Spread petroleum jelly over the cutout surfaces. Alternatively, you can use vegetable or olive oil. This step will keep the mold and bacteria from returning and the pumpkin from drying out.
- 4
  Wipe away the excess lubricant with a paper towel.

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