One of the best parts of a beach trip is the abundance of shells you can collect; however, before you use them in coastal home decor (shout out to our Coastal Grandmas) or craft materials, give them an actual cleaning. Even if your shells look like clean specimens, their delicate surfaces can harbor bacteria and debris from their aquatic life, and after a couple of days they might start to smell. There are several methods to clean shells, each with its own benefits and considerations:
You'll Need:
- Shells
- Water
- Toothbrush or scrub brush
- Wire brush or dental picks (optional)
- Tweezers
- Gloves
- Container/Bucket
- Mineral oil or baby oil (optional)
6 Seashell Cleaning Methods
1. Soap and Water
Fill a container with water and add a few drops of mild soap. Soak the seashells in the soapy water for a few minutes. Use a small brush or toothbrush to gently scrub away any dirt or debris. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth or paper towel.
2. Bleach Water Solution
Soak the shells in a solution of one part bleach to five parts water for several hours. This method effectively removes organic material and whitens the shells. After soaking, rinse the shells thoroughly with fresh water.
3. Vinegar Solution
Submerge the shells in vinegar for a few hours. Vinegar helps to dissolve any calcium deposits on the shells. Be cautious with this method as prolonged exposure can erode the shell's surface.
4. Baking Soda Paste
Create a paste using baking soda and water, then gently scrub the shells with a toothbrush. This method is great for delicate shells as it's less abrasive than other options.
5. Boiling Water
Boil the shells in water for about 5 minutes to remove any remaining organic matter. This is a quick, effective, basic cleaning method, but ensure the shells are cooled gradually on a soft surface to prevent cracking.
6. Hydrogen Peroxide
Soak the shells in hydrogen peroxide for a few hours to remove any organic material. This is a gentler cleaning solution compared to bleach, preserving the color and integrity of the shells.
No matter which process you choose, to give your seashells a beautiful shine, you can polish them with mineral oil or baby oil. Apply a small amount of oil to a soft cloth and rub a light coat onto the surface of the shells. This will enhance their natural luster and make them look like they just washed up on shore.
Will Bleach Discolor My Seashells?
Using a solution of bleach can discolor seashells, especially those with vibrant natural colors. It’s recommended to use a diluted bleach solution and limit soaking time to minimize the risk of discoloration.
What Should I Do if My Shells Still Have Lingering Odors?
If your shells still have lingering odors after cleaning, soak them in a solution of baking soda and water for several hours. This helps to neutralize any remaining smells. Additionally, you can place the shells in direct sunlight for a few days to further eliminate odors.
