Seashell Care - Tips and Hints.

How to care for your Seashells, Starfish, Sand Dollars and Sea Urchins

Many people have asked us how to care for their seashells.  Here are some Tips and Hints.

SEASHELLS AND SEA URCHINS:

Seashells should be dusted periodically with a soft brush such as a new clean dry paintbrush.  They can also be washed with a very light solution of dish soap and water. Wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Never ever put your Seashells in any harsh chemicals or detergents.  This can etch the surface and destroy the natural colors.

Never put your Seashells in direct sunlight.  The sun will fade the natural colors of Seashells over time.

You can spray your Seashells with a clear acrylic sealer, but be careful as this can yellow the shells over time.  Some Sprays will cause more yellowing than others.  I would not recommend spraying Starfish with an acrylic sealer.  This may cause  them to turn yellow.

STARFISH:

Starfish can be dusted with a soft brush.  For soiled white starfish they can be washed in a light bleach solution.  Put in the sun to dry.  Don’t ever soak in bleach this will deteriorate the starfish (just like your clothing).  When you receive your white starfish they probably have been newly bleached and may have a slight odor.  This odor will dissipate over a short time.

Keep your starfish in cool dry areas.  Never put in an attic or basement.

SAND DOLLARS:

Sand Dollars can also be dusted with a clean, dry, soft brush.  For soiled Sand Dollars they too can be washed in a light bleach solution.  Put in the sun to dry.  Don’t ever soak in bleach this will deteriorate the sand dollarl (just like your clothing).