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How to Get the Fish Smell Out of Starfish

Starfish, also called sea stars or basket stars, are an invertebrate marine animal found in most of the world's oceans. Though the creature's name implies otherwise, starfish do not belong to any species of fish. Rather, they are classified as echinoderms, which have a tough outer skeleton and a soft underside. Starfish that have washed ashore are popular collectibles among marine life enthusiasts, and they make distinctive decorations once dry. Occasionally, a fishy scent will linger inside the shell, but this can be removed using household products.

Things You'll Need

Small butter knife
Large piece of cardboard
Large bowl
Bleach
Slotted cooking spoon
Baking soda
Salt

Instructions

- 1
  Scrape away any remaining tissue from the underside of the starfish using a small butter knife. Brush off any bugs, seaweed or other organic matter which may be clinging to the spiny top of the shell.
- 2
  Mix three parts bleach to one part water in a large bowl. The depth of the mixture should be deep enough to submerge the starfish you wish to clean.
- 3
  Lay a large, flat piece of cardboard next to the bowl. Pour baking soda and salt onto the cardboard and spread it across the surface to create a thin, powdery layer.
- 4
  Submerge the starfish in the bowl of solution for several minutes. Agitate the shell gently using a slotted cooking spoon.
- 5
  Lift the shell with your spoon, allowing excess solution to drain through the slots.
- 6
  Place the shell onto the layer of baking soda and salt. Allow it to dry undisturbed overnight.

Sea Shell Collecting