How To Clean Sea Shells
Polishing sea shells is not an option to collectors since it will reduce its value. Polishing them will require that you grind away the shell’s outermost layer. It does not only reduce the value of your shells but it is also a messy process. A better alternative to polishing is to clean sea shells. You will only need a mineral oil and a bit of patience in order to do this. Cleaning and not polishing your shells will bring out its natural beauty.
Cleaning Implements
Here are the things you will need to use in order to clean sea shells. Bring out a bottle of dishwashing liquid, liquid bleach, mineral oils, soft rags, silicone lubricants, bowls, soft toothbrushes, buckets, and WD-40. The steps you will take to clean sea shells will require a bit of work and patience but it will be generally easy.
How to Clean Sea Shells
The first step is to bring out your shells and wash them using a garden hose. If you don’t have space or for some other reason that you can’t bring them outside then you can just wash them over the kitchen sink. When you wash you shells be sure to remove anything that still remains on the inside. It will eventually smell if you forget to do so.
Thoroughly Clean the Insides
Use the following steps to thoroughly clean sea shells and ensure that nothing is left of its former inhabitants. Use a container that you can use to immerse entire shells. Fill it half with water and half with liquid household bleach. Soak your sea shells in this solution for about 24 hours or so. This will help remove anything that is left inside the shells.
Finishing Touches
Once all the dirt and other things are removed from the shell’s insides, rinse your shells thoroughly using running water. Using an old soft toothbrush, gently scrub the shells as you rinse. Use mild dishwashing soap to ensure that the shell is completely clean.
Once you have rinsed it thoroughly enough allow your sea shell to dry. When they have dried out completely apply mineral oil all over the shells using a soft rag. Let the mineral oil soak into the shell for several hours. After you’re done soaking wipe off any excess oil off the surface of your sea shells and enjoy its natural beauty.
Tips on how to clean sea shells: Take note that not all shells will require polishing since they have a natural shine. Never use vegetable oil on your sea shells. You may use silicone spray or WD-40 on your shells instead of mineral oil. If you do use these, take note that you don’t wipe them off.
