How to Clean Seashells

Polishing seashells requires grinding away the outermost layer of a shell, which not only is very messy but also ruins the value if you happen to be a collector. Proper cleaning and a little bit of mineral oil will bring out the natural beauty without causing damage.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dishwashing Liquid
• Seashells
• Liquid Bleach
• Soft Rags
• Dishwashing Liquid
• Mineral Oils
• Silicone Lubricants
• Soft Toothbrushes
• Bowls
• Buckets
• WD-40
• Bowls

1. Wash the shell out with a garden hose or in the kitchen sink. You want to remove whatever is still inside or you will likely smell your mistake later.

2. Mix a solution of 50 percent household bleach and 50 percent water. Soak the shell in the solution for 24 hours to remove any remnants of the inhabitant.

3. Rinse the shell thoroughly in running water. Scrub gently with an old toothbrush and mild dishwashing soap.

4. Allow the shell to dry completely.

5. Use a soft rag to rub mineral oil onto the shell and let it soak in for a few hours.

6. Wipe the excess oil off and enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• Some collectors spray their shells with WD-40 or silicon spray (which isn't wiped off).
• Keep in mind that many varieties of seashells - cowries, for instance - are naturally shiny and never need polishing.
• Do not use vegetable oil, which can become rancid.

on 3/20/2006 The cheapest way to check if there are no critters in the shell is to bury it in hot sand for a day and then look inside.

on 11/22/2005 If I find a stinky shell (already in my collection or from the beach), I rinse it, then pack it with Arm & Hammer baking soda and put it in a coffee can filled with a bed of wet newspaper. Leave it set overnight, then rinse it in the morning. This only works if there is only residue or a hermit crab inside. Live shells with the original creature have to be handled separately.

on 11/22/2005 Whenever I find a shell or rock at the beach that I want to treasure forever, I boil it in a small saucepan for about 5 to 10 minutes. This ensures that the shell is clean and no critters remain inside.