How to Clean Seashells Like a Pro [12 Bonus Tips ]

We love seashells for their beauty, uniqueness, and intricate structure. However, they can lose some of their charm when they’re dirty. To solve this problem. I’ve written a simple, step-by-step tutorial guide on how to clean seashells, drawing from my practical experience as a marine biologist.

All tips are proven and effective, and you’ll notice a remarkable transformation if you follow them.

I currently live in Cinnamon Beach, Palm Coast, Florida which is one of the best beaches for seashells in Florida.

Whenever I visit the beaches with my colleagues from Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida to identify different types of seashells brought by strong oceanic waves, we enjoy them immensely.

On one visit to Sanibel Island, my friend David Garcia, a physicist, collected various shells, including a bunch of money cowries, conchs, and whelks. He packed the seashells well in ziplock bags.

But after the trip, when we returned to his home, a terrible smell filled the air as we curiously unzipped the bags to see the collection. 
The reason was uncleaned shell collection, which led to an unbreathable odor due to the zip lock for a couple of hours.

Preparations For Cleaning Beach Shells At Home

Here’s how I guided my friend about how to clean seashells at home significantly to eliminate foul odors. I am simply sharing these tips with you, so you can also follow them and make your shell collection hobby more pleasant.

Required Items For Beach Shell Cleaning

• Seashells (which you already have).
• A bucket or bowl of distilled water
• An old toothbrush
• Bleach
• Clear acrylic spray or mineral oil (if available)

Be sure the seashells you collect are not living and do not contain animal tissue.

Most Common Homemade Seashell Cleaning Procedure

There are a couple of methods to clean the freshly collected shell for longer-lasting shine and preservation. I follow the below procedures whenever I collect new seashells from the Florida Beaches.

1. Rinse With Distilled or Filtered Water

The very first procedure, a collector should do after getting back from the beach combing for shells, is cleaning the collected sea shells with distilled water. I usually use mild warm water for this purpose, so that all the debris, sand, and dirt is removed from the shell.

This very basic step gives a clear view of the collected shell, so the identification process of the shell becomes very easy, and if there are some dents, flaws, or breakage present, it becomes visible. This clear visibility helps us decide whether we should continue the cleaning and shining process of the shell or not.

Sometimes the dirt, sand, and other debris are not cleared with just distilled or filtered water rinse-off. So that’s why I occasionally use the cleaning of seashells with boiling water technique.

I boil the water in a big stainless steel bowl in my kitchen (my wife does not like this, but somehow she managed to ignore it😉)

Then put the shells in a metallic mesh bag, and keep them dipped for 15 to 30 minutes, and if not cleaned, then another 15 minutes and so on. This always works.

2. Soapy Water For Seashells Cleaning To Remove Odor

The question is how to clean smelly seashells.

First of all, I use the soapy water method to remove the unbearable smell of the freshly collected seashells. Usually, I add the kitchen dishwasher shampoo for this purpose, but if you want to buy some fancy stuff, you can search online, or at your nearest store for the seashell smell remover shampoo or cleaner.

Add the shampoo to the water, make some foam, and then dip your collected smelly shells for about 2 to 3 hours. Then rub gently with a soft cloth with the shampoo water and rinse with clean water.

As per my personal experience, 90% of the unbearable smell is already gone with this first step. My smelly conch shells are always cleaned with this method.

While soapy water is good for removing odors, it is not recommended for shining. Instead, use mineral oil.

3. Bleach Solution For Beach Shell Cleaning

Sometimes, I get a shell with some stubborn crusty or green stains, which are not easy to clean with just freshwater or soap water.

To effectively clean these kinds of seashell stains, I initially mixed a 50% bleach and 50% water solution and then soaked them in bleach for 24 hours. 

If the stain is removed, then I move to the next step, but if the job is not yet done, then I use strength bleach repeatedly for this purpose until I get what result I desire.

Use of New Bleach For Sea Shells Cleaning

If the bleach weakens, it may take longer. And I am well aware of the curiosity of the new collection first look, how eagerly I wait for it. So for that reason, I always use new-strength bleach and soak seashells for 24 hours for an effective and speedy cleaning process. 

I usually dilute the bleach with water to see the cleaning effect for the first 15 minutes. Because the experience comes with time, and you may destroy your rare shell if a high-power bleach is used on this first run.
Always use new bleach, but gradually reduce the dilution level to strengthen the cleaning power, and keep the shell safe during cleaning.

Seashells Dipping In Bleach

People often ask me if is it safe to bleach the shells, how to clean seashells, how long to place them in the bleach, and does bleaching the shell works. 

I always reply, Yes, it is safe if done with all the precautions mentioned, it does work and helps loosen the harmful substances from the seashells. Dip the shells in bleach until unwanted residues are removed. 

But always rinse thoroughly after bleaching the shell, especially if you want to do the acid cleaning job for the more accurate cleaning of the sea shell, as bleach, and HCl Hydrochloric Acid can react and may cause injury during the process. Be extra cautious for your safety.

4. Acid Treatment For Sea Shells Cleaning 

Acid treatment is a skilled job, requires more precautions, and is not recommended for immature or beginner-level shell collectors. I use Muriatic Acid for this purpose with all the safety gear used.

Long-term exposure or dipping in the acid may harm your precious shell collection, so be extra cautious when doing the acid job for the shell cleaning. If you are not sure about the procedure, don’t do it at home. Instead, hire a professional for the job.

If you are doing the job by yourself, it is advised that after taking all necessary precautions, you may spray acid on the shells to prevent surface damage. 

Tip: I mixed one part of Muriatic Acid with three parts of water.

Rinse the seashells thoroughly before putting them in muriatic acid, as bleach and muriatic acid can produce harmful chlorine gas.

Before using my methods, test on an old shell. 

How To Clean Your Shells You Collected From The Beach

Video Courtesy of Jennifer Mowan5 YouTube Channel

12 Best Proven Tips For Effectively Cleaning Seashells

1. If you spray acid on the outer shells, you should protect certain areas. Use a dropper or apply Vaseline to shield the shiny parts.
2. Drop it in acid and wait for it to bubble. Add water and baking soda until the reaction stops, then dispose of it properly. Use the acid mixture multiple times.

3. I use 100% strength bleach for anything crusty or green. I also apply hydrogen peroxide on sand dollar shells.

4. For quick cleaning, dip the shells in diluted HCl (3 cups water to 1 cup acid) for 1-3 seconds. Avoid submerging glossy parts, as they may lose their shine

5. Soak shells in clean water for about a week to loosen debris. Then, bleach them or clean them with toothpaste.

6. If you find barnacles, clean them by boiling them in a 50/50 bleach solution.

7. Dry the shells and apply mineral oil or polyurethane spray once cleaned. 

8. You can also bury shells in garden soil to help remove organic materials from the shells or place them near an ant nest, as ants will eat the dead tissues.

9. You can also dump the shells in a container of hot water with baking soda and let them soak. A weak muriatic acid solution or bleach water can also be used. Afterward, dry them in sunlight to remove brown residues and cover them with mineral oil. 

10. If a snail is inside, freeze the shell to remove it.

11. I use liquid paraffin for a glossy finish. 

12. I recommend using a glossy polyurethane spray for murex and textured shells. Apply two coats and let them dry for two hours. Avoid using a fast brush, as it can crack and create crevices in the shells.

How to Clean Seashells So Only the Iridescent Pearl Remains

Iridescent pearls look attractive, and cleaning them carefully can enhance their shine.

Start by soaking the seashells in a strong bleach solution for 24 hours, often providing the best results. Afterward, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of vinegar or diluted acetic acid. 

Rinse thoroughly after scrubbing to stop the vinegar’s action, and your shell will look beautifully polished.

Safety Reminder:

Always handle bleach and acids carefully, using gloves and working in a well-ventilated area.

How to Restore And Bring Color to Seashells

If you are looking for how to clean seashells without losing color or if color has been lost, then this proven tips section is for you.

What You Need For Ocean Shells Color Restoration Process

• Three (3) glass jars (they MUST be glass)
• One (1) LARGE glass bowl or jar, at least 2.5 times as large as the other three jars (only needed if you plan on neutralizing the acid yourself after the process)
• Muriatic (hydrochloric) Acid.

• Water (distilled, if possible; if not, use filtered water)
• Baking soda
• Towel
• Specific Clothing(optional but highly recommended)

• Rubber or latex gloves
• Eye protection (goggles)
• Face mask (a plain surgical mask should work)
• (Old) long-sleeve shirt and pants

Steps You Must Follow

1. Fill your jars

Jar 1: Solution of water and muriatic acid in a 3:1 ratio.

Jar 2: Solution of baking soda and water.

Jar 3: Water.

2. Start The Process

Using tongs or another long tool, pick up a seashell and dip it into Jar 1 (acid), submerging it for 3-7 seconds.

Remove the shell from Jar 1 and place it into jar 2 (baking soda solution). Gently swirl it around for several seconds.

Remove the shell from Jar 2 and place it into Jar 3 (water). Gently swirl it around for several seconds.

Remove the shell from Jar 3 and place it on a towel to dry.

Repeat these steps for any other shells you wish to process.

3. Dispose of The Used Acid Solution

Once finished, it’s time to dispose of the acid. DO NOT POUR IT DOWN THE DRAIN.

I recommend calling your local recycling center to see what they suggest. Some centers can handle it or direct you to the appropriate disposal location. If your recycling center cannot help, and you don’t plan on using the acid again, you must carefully neutralize it by:

• A. Transferring the contents of Jar 2 to the larger glass container, then add a generous amount of baking soda.
• B. VERY SLOWLY pour the acid into the baking soda solution. This reaction may produce gas and heat, so be very cautious and avoid inhaling fumes. Doing this job in the open air is recommended or in a room with proper ventilation.
• C. If the solution continues to fizz or becomes uncontrollable, add more baking soda until it settles.
• D. Once the reaction has completely stopped, you may pour the neutralized solution down the drain.

Notes:

1. Ideally, all water should be distilled. If not, ensure it’s at least filtered.
2. Example for a 3:1 ratio: ¾ cup water + ¼ cup acid. Increase amounts as needed depending on jar size. Note: NEVER POUR WATER INTO ACID; always pour acid into water to avoid splashing.
3. There’s no consensus on the baking soda ratio, but a 3:1 or 2:1 ratio (e.g., 1 cup water + ⅓ or ½ cup baking soda) should work well.
4. Opinions vary on the ideal time to leave the shell in the acid. 3-7 seconds is a safe medium.
5. Suppose you plan to reuse the acid. Label it and store it securely. When stored properly, acid remains usable indefinitely.

Tips For Immature Ocean Shell Collector On Cleaning Beach Shells At Home

I have mentioned above all techniques and tips for how to clean seashells using distilled water and chemicals. But if you are just starting this awesome shell collection, cleaning and preserving hobby, and don’t have all this stuff, simply follow these steps.

• Wash them with water, if there is sand inside.
• If it smells terrible, boil or dipped in soapy water.
• Put them in the sunlight or dry with a towel gently;
• Remember, do not keep wet seashells in the sun for a long time: they can become discolored.

Here are some proven tips for effectively cleaning seashells if you can afford some utilities for this hobby.

1. Soak seashells in bleach and water for 24 hours to help remove dirt, grime, and odor. This is especially useful if shells have a strong smell.
2. Soapy water can help with odor removal, but it’s not ideal for adding shine. 
3. For a polished look, apply mineral oil after cleaning.
4. Use a 1:3 mixture of Muriatic Acid and water for a deeper clean, but only after thorough rinsing.
5. Always handle acid carefully, as it can be harmful if mixed with bleach.
6. After cleaning, add a clear acrylic spray or mineral oil to the shells for a glossy, protective finish.

FAQs( Frequently Asked Questions)

Conclusion

I did my best to answer the question, of how to clean seashells. With these expert tips, you can easily remove dirt, odors, and encrustations, leaving your seashells beautifully polished and ready for display.

Whether you’re a beachcomber, collector, or simply looking to preserve coastal decor, these methods ensure each shell retains its natural charm and shine.