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How to Preserve a Starfish Shell

Beach combing for shells, urchins and starfish is a common seaside activity, but sometimes what we take home can become a smelly, rotting mess if neglected. Starfish are often prized for their use in decorating and kids like collecting them as souvenirs. In order to have the best looking specimens to display, there is a simple process that should be followed to help them remain odor free and keep them from attracting insects into your home.

Things You'll Need

Plastic box
Paper towels
Dish washing liquid
Bucket
Water

Instructions

- 1
  
  Starfish are easier to find when the tide is low.
  
  Line a plastic box with paper towels for collecting starfish. Do not cover the box, as this does not allow air to escape and could cause damage to the starfish. Collect specimens when the tide is low. If damp, rinse each find in seawater to remove excess sand before placing in the container. Starfish can be quite brittle if they have been out of the water, so be careful not to snap off the legs or put any weight on them.
- 2
  Put a small amount of dish washing liquid in a bucket and fill with water. Place a single starfish in the water and, using your fingers or soft brush, gently clean away any sand, algae or other substances on the the starfish top. Turn it over and clean the bottom. Be sure to remove any insect life that may be hiding within the open crevices of the starfish. Also, clean away any fleshy material.
- 3
  Place the starfish outdoors in a full sun to dry. Weigh down each arm to prevent curling, but use something that will not crush the leg. Drying may take up to two days or more. During this period, the starfish will give off a strong odor, so do not dry it inside of your home. Place dried starfish in an area away from pets, as the smell might attract them. When the starfish are completely dry and do not smell, place them in an area with little moisture for storage.

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