Best way to safely clean seashells! And it's economical too!

[@nunyabiznez6381]

For safety, and this may seem like overkill but I've been an OSHA industrial safety auditor and I can tell you acid is not to be trifled with, so I use PPE (Personal Protection Equipment). Goggles are a very good idea. I also add a full face shield OVER the goggles because goggles are not full proof. I wear a full length acid resistant neoprene apron and full arm neoprene gloves. And ALWAYS use acid OUTDOORS not indoors unless you either have industrial strength ventilation and a respirator ANSI certified for use around acid fumes. I got my goggles, face shield, gloves and apron all from Amazon combined for under $100 delivered. I consider that an essential investment.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you for this info!

[@nunyabiznez6381]

For fun, don't pass by broken fighting conchs that have good color or potential for good color. You can grind them to shape using a belt sander rounding off the jagged edges. Then get this, you can paint various designs on them with acrylic paint. Let the paint dry, then dip them in acid. The part covered with paint won't be affected by acid. The part that is exposed to the acid will burn away and so when you rinse it off then peal off the acrylic paint you are left with a raised or etched design and in the fighting conchs if you leave them in acid long enough it will burn through the top color layer leaving a different color layer below so your etched design will have a nice two or more color contrast, usually white and tan though other colors are possible. I have made letter pendants this way. Really fine delicate work an be achieved with practice and experience.

[@victrola2007]

I absolute LOVE this idea! Wanted to try yhis with WaxResist stuff in the past but put it off. As someone who's done wax painting on easter eggs for decades it stood to reason that it just might work here too. You just gave me a big kick in the butt. Thank you!!! ❤🎉

[@SWFBeachLife]

I too was thinking about doing something with wax, but paint is SUCH a fabulous idea. I actually have a mini pile of fighting conchs that I was going to mess around with. I think I now know what I'm going to try - thank you!!

[@cheriespencer3703]

Oh! Be sure to let us see your results! Sounds fantastic!

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@cheriespencer3703 I already have the shells picked out 😄

[@marktechsci]

What kind of mask do you use while grinding?

[@nunyabiznez6381]

I try not to use too much acid as it can damage shells easily. I dilute mine with water which slows down the process allowing me greater control. I also have found that lightly oiling my shells goes a long way in preserving the color and texture. Over time, most shells will dry out a bit on their own and by that I mean they will tend towards a slightly chalky texture. I only ever use mineral oil as it is inorganic and so won't turn rancid. Nothing worse than a smelly shell collection. Also, oil can be used as a substitute for acid if you are afraid of acid but don't use it if you are using your shells for crafts as it will prevent glue/cement from sticking. I have shells I collected over 50 years ago that look like I collected them yesterday, in fact they look still wet from the ocean.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I did a video where I compared the results from oiling shells to acid and the oil did quite well. And those same shells are sitting in a bowl and the results are the same. The oil is indeed a very good substitute if one doesn't want to mess around with the acid. With that said, for those of us that like using the acid, I love that there is a safe acid that we can use!

[@miku4936]

do you know how much time the oil lasts for? can it be weeks, months or even years?

[@shadowrider5829]

So is it better to use acid and then oil so i remove the layer first and then give it a shine or i just use oil instead of acid and it will be the same result

[@lindasaccavino6228]

I just bought Acid Magic at my local Ace Hardware store which was cheaper than Amazon and I am supporting a local business, a definite win. Thank you for the tutorial.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Happy cleaning!

[@joang.cavanna2046]

I love to see beach stuff on shells. It shows the web of life and how we are all interdependent. It makes each shell unique. Perfect shells are nice but not perfect ones are interesting.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I'm starting to REALLY appreciate the shells that are not perfect. Those little imperfections make them that much more interesting.

[@Eliel7230]

And they may be an interesting subject for drawing too. 😁

[@annettesmith6358]

I know its fun to watch the changes, but if you don't have time to dip every shell, I made a "pouch" out of cheese cloth and then I fill it with similar shell and dip them all together. That way I can dip a dozen shells or so at a time...then check through them to see if any single one needs a bit more... very time saving!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are awesome! I actually have used a fishtanks net, and the netting from a proof for your shower. Cheesecloth sounds like another fabulous option should I come across any. Thank you!!

[@JenniferRuhlman]

I can't believe how quick and effective it is! Thanks for sharing! 😊

[@SWFBeachLife]

And it's so inexpensive too!

[@maggieslifeisawildride512]

Awesome tips...thanks! I love seeing transformations like that! I don't know why but it is so satisfying to see the dirt (etc...) vanish, leaving a beautiful shell after.

[@sherrytraveny8803]

I love how the shells turned out so cool.

[@lindsayschilling8707]

That orange Horse Conch is phenomenal. 😮 😎

[@maxjr758]

When I was Stationed in Guantanamo Bay Cuba in the mid 80s we found lots of sgells diving. Once they were cleaned and dried we soaked them in Baby Oil ! That really made the color pop ! ONCE they start to dry out bub them down with Baby Oil again. The sheen lasts for several months !

[@SWFBeachLife]

I use mineral oil, but you are so right - the colors really pop after that!

[@gachaendmost5600]

does coconut oil work too or just baby and mineral oil??????

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@gachaendmost5600 No food oils as it can spoil so if it’s meant for your skin you’re good. If it’s a food oil don’t use it.

[@sandystehman1490]

This is Great! I have a box of shells and want to paint them and was searching how to clean them first. What an eye opener...would not have guessed they would look like this after cleaning. Excited to try this. Thank you for sharing.

[@judyfountain7187]

I was at the Lighthouse point on Sanibel the last week in September and a really sweet lady passed by me and told me that she had piled up some beautiful shells around the bend by the point and to help myself. I did! Then i told someone else they were there so she could get some beauties too. I wonder if that was you that piled up those beautiful shells.

[@SWFBeachLife]

It wasn't me, but I know why they did that. Finding seashells is SO FUN! It's hard to not see it and then pick it up. The problem is what to do with them all? So leaving them at the beach for others to take home is the prefect solution! How very nice of you to also share the beach loot! 🥰

[@melissaobrien429]

Thank you for making this video!!! I appreciate it! I have shells literally everywhere waiting to be cleaned to show their true potential. You know I have an issue with bleach. It doesnt work. The shells kind of had less stuff on them... but they chipped as well. Im not a big fan of it at all. I do use the hydrogen like you said and that works pretty well. This is my only other answer that I can see to work!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I recently used a nail file to "fix" the edge of an angel wing 😉

[@Laurel608]

I really like watching you dipping your shells in the acid! Thanks for this video!

[@fredamoore1743]

You are so smart. I Love that you share all your tips with everyone. This process looks so safe and easy. Can't wait to try it, Thanks!

[@SWFBeachLife]

❤️

[@linds3317]

Omg! The horse conch is BEAUTIFUL! 🤩

[@cking8776]

Wonderful results with the new acid!!! 👍💯👍

[@janiebennett5645]

Hey Shar!! Thanks so much for the tute! I was wondering if after the bleach and dry you might use a light SANDpaper (get it??) on the little barnacle debris at the aperture of the paper figs. Or maybe a small dremel?? The dremel also has some polishing heads. I love your vids!! Thanks again!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Someone did indeed recommend using a dremel to remove more beach stuff if the acid doesn't work. You could also use the dremel to even out any broken apertures (openings).

[@deniseyoung5385]

That True, though!!!! Gorgeous after it’s acid bath. Such a huge difference!

[@sonflowergems]

It was really satisfying watching you clean those beautiful shells. We only ever used bleach when I was a kid. I wonder if CLR would work? It takes lime residue and calcifications off. You can even use it on your shower head or coffee maker. It is so safe.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have bought CLR to use on my shells but I never tried it. Since the bleach/acid method works so well I just use that!

[@anitaassad4499]

Wow the shells look gorgeous

[@sweettreasuresbycindy8996]

Love your video!! Just posted some shells in resin on my channel! Gorgeous shells! Thanks for showing how to clean them!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Well that short sure does make it look like fun! Resin is one of those things I'd love to play with. After I make all the shell mirrors and frames and lamps and....

[@sweettreasuresbycindy8996]

@@SWFBeachLife eek, how exciting!! I'll keep watching as usual. See you on the next one

[@gingermackeen5741]

Pretty impressive Sharmon. That true tulip is absolutely gorgeous! I have an Ace close and might check it out! Thanks! xxoo

[@loisschneider99]

Impressed. Thanks so much for your tips and video. These shells are gorgeous. I may have to go back and clean some family collected shells to see if bleach, acid and mineral oil brings them to new color.

[@SWFBeachLife]

If you are a little worried about the process test on a few shells first!

[@linds3317]

I love how the shells seemingly transform after the acid bath. I love when you do these videos with the acid baths, they’re so relaxing! ☺️

[@SWFBeachLife]

Cleaning shells is like therapy for me too! 😂

[@livinthedream4484]

Thank you!! New to shelling and want to learn. I’ll be traveling via video with you from here on out. Love your presentation!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Welcome aboard!

[@ittybittykittymama7582]

You are a wonder worker, my Beach Angel! The horse conch turned out amazingly pretty and the tulip is so lovely! If I was there, I'd be dipping all day! So much fun! Will your method work on older shells, like those in my latest addition to my collection? Dr. Réal, at the Shell Museum, will take care of cleaning "The Shell" when he takes possession of it. I'm still a chicken about parting with it. He is, thankfully, very gracious in understanding my hesitation, stating that "Five hundred years of family history would be difficult to part with." Great video, my friend! I learned a lot about cleaning shells. Much love to all, Rebecca, The Lost Mermaid

[@SWFBeachLife]

Yes, this safe acid will work with brand new or older shells. Calcium build up is calcium build up - no matter the age. When you are good and ready you can part with your shell. I don't see any reason to rush it if you're not ready! ❤️🐚

[@ittybittykittymama7582]

@@SWFBeachLife Thanks for the support. ❤️

[@jenniferdevinney541]

You recommend such amazing things! I currently have the bug spray and umbrella/anchor you recommended packed and ready to go for our upcoming trip to Sanibel! Just added this to my cart too! So excited!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are all set! I only recommend products that I believe in, so I feel good knowing you will have your safe shade and some of that bug spray! I hope you have a wonderful time on Sanibel!!

[@jenniferdevinney541]

@@SWFBeachLife thank you so much! We go for two weeks every year. We were booked to go last October and had to cancel because of the hurricane. I am beyond excited to go back this year! It's such my happy place. I hope to live there one day! I've always loved to shell, but learning all the shell names with you has made it so much more meaningful. Thank you for taking me on your adventures with you!

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@jenniferdevinney541 Thank you for coming! Maybe we will cross paths out there! 😀

[@brendagroff8478]

Hi, I have a very old and very large Triton Trumpet. Should I bleach it first and then put it in your acid? I bought your acid. Thanks, Brenda

[@SWFBeachLife]

Hi Brenda! The bleach is really for the crusty beach stuff or periostracum so it depends. If you'd like to email me a pic I can give you my best advice: [e-mail]

[@jenibean9968]

Do you soak them in bleach full strength or do you dilute it?

[@SWFBeachLife]

Full strength bleach for me!

[@jenibean9968]

@@SWFBeachLifecool. Thank you.

[@drdrew3]

Full strength household bleach is just 6% right out of the bottle. Very dilute to begin with

[@lauriewatson2822]

I dip Olives and Fighting conchs all the time and have never lost the shine. Love your new idea tho.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Well I don't know what I'm doing wrong but I do see that's it's not guaranteed the shell will get dull. I'm going to keep experimenting!

[@Danit.Talkscentswithme]

Wow, the shells cleaned up beautifully 😍♥️

[@cazee100]

It’s alchemy! ado you wear a pointy hat when dipping lol. I could watch this all day, love the magic!! a stay safe xx

[@SWFBeachLife]

I do! And behind me out of camera shot is my cauldron 🤣

[@monicaeaton8860]

Nice! I will definitely try this. Never heard of it till now. Thank you!

[@sherrymclaughlin4947]

Thanks so much for sharing!! I just ordered it from Amazon.

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so welcome! I hope you have fun cleaning!

[@claum.s9472]

I loved it. You are so luck to find it all. I never found the beautiful ones only simple shells. Some beach I can not see nothing apart of few stones and some there is nothing at all😢 . Anyway good luck to you. It is good to watch 🥰

[@SWFBeachLife]

I live in Southwest Florida and we have so many amazing shells here!

[@ChoosingToLive1]

Great video. Thanks! How do you dispose of your used bleach and acid? I’m thinking of using them on my driveway cracks to keep weeds from growing back, unless you have a better idea.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I show in this video how I dispose of the acid: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWXbpmCGlLRnisksi=R4sBN4N04P54Amx-&t=1180

[@malindagutierrez4076]

As always such amazing information!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you!!!

[@ShoryoTombo]

Hello from another SWF dweller! This is so great! I'm now a subscriber. You have a lot of great contents!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Welcome aboard and thank you! I'm kind of obsessed with the beach and it's treasures 😃

[@ShoryoTombo]

I make jewelry out of them 🥰@@SWFBeachLife

[@amygerrish938]

I'm going to try this thanks for a great video! Off topic.. what is the wooden shelf you use to dry your shells?

[@SWFBeachLife]

My husband built me a "shell station," so I have a high wood counter to dry and work on my shells. It's right next to the hose so it's a perfect spot to leave my fresh off the beach goodies so I can clean them.

[@tracyriordan7011]

Holy moly! Acid Magic is amazing! ( : I definitely need this product for my shells! ( : fantastic shell tips as always! You rock, Sharmon, Shell Queen extraordinaire! ( : ❤️❤️❤️❤️🥰🥰🥰🥰🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@SWFBeachLife]

Thank you Tracy!! ❤️

[@bobbienielsen6860]

This is a very informative video. Thank you so much!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You are so welcome!

[@kathyjund7212]

This is truly awesome.. such a helpful video.. and the added bonus of anything from you outside of our Sunday dates!! I'll take the figs!! Lol

[@melmel4943]

After you done the bleach part, do you rinse off with water and soap before setting them out to dry? I have some shells that has a thick layer of calcium build up, it looks more like a fossil, you can’t see the color of the shell at all. Would the acid magic work in these if I left the shells longer than 3 seconds?

[@SWFBeachLife]

Some shells get fossilized and that is that - the color will not come back. My best recommendation is to put them in water. If some color can be seen when they are wet the color may come back. If they are still white, it's likely the shells are bleached white and you will not be able to get the color back.

[@jtb8155]

What a great way to clean shells. Thank you❣️

[@lindsayschilling8707]

WooHoo, let's go to the beach 🎶 🎵 🐚 😎

[@beachesandpalms615]

Hello again - I've got Acid Magic and a bunch of shells ready to be cleaned. Couple more questions for you - Can I use a plastic table (I see you have a wood surface) and if I choose to use gloves will standard kitchen cleaning gloves be okay or will the acid melt them Thanks :)

[@SWFBeachLife]

Hello shell cleaner! Yes, you can use a plastic table or any table you would like. If you're worried about getting anything on it I would just cover it with a towel. And you can absolutely use standard kitchen gloves. Happy cleaning!

[@tammymoore-kloss9680]

Oooooaaaawwww I can’t help it makes me giddy and I giggle !! Love watching the transformation it’s so cool!!! Do you leave your Miuritic acid covered outside to store?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I keep my muriatic acid in a mason jar and I reuse it over and over until it stops working 😃

[@jantaylor2034]

I bought some of the Safe HCL that you used a while back. (And promptly took my jug of real muriatic acid to the recycling center at our local dump.) I don't see the Safe HCL available any longer, but that's ok...(maybe the is the same stuff, just under a little nicer a name?)...as long as Acid Magic is available and works this well. Thanks for sharing this with us!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Yes, the Acid Magic is a lot more economical for the same results .Plus you may be able to pick it up today at a local hardware store. I love convenience AND saving money!

[@jantaylor2034]

Yes, the price impressed me, too! Thanks!!@@SWFBeachLife

[@dmaria848]

Absolutely gorgeous!! One quick question, do you use the bleach at full strength, or dilute it with water?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I am hard core. I have a big rubbermaid filled with 100% bleach and I soak the shells in there for a few days. I take the shells out and reuse the bleach over and over until it stops working. It's a much better process for me since I almost always have shells in some state of being cleaned 😊

[@fcfirecat]

I watched your video on using Safe HCL and bought some and I love the results! Now, I’ve got to try the Acid Magic! Which do you prefer! Safe HCL or Acid Magic?

[@SWFBeachLife]

Personally I like the Acid Magic better. You can buy it at multiple places and it's about 1/3 the cost of the Safe HCL. I wish I had known about the Acid Magic before the Safe HCL!

[@fcfirecat]

@@SWFBeachLifeI thought the same thing. Acid Magic is much cheaper than Safe HCL. If they give similar results, then I’ll go with Acid Magic. Thanks for your expertise! I love your videos!

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@fcfirecat Thank you!! 🙏🏼

[@KelliCassarella-ek5km]

I've seen a lot of people recently starting to use safe HCL instead of muriatic acid/acid magic. After asking questions, I'm being told that the shells dont lose their glossiness after dipping. I have some that are highly calcified on one side but have beautiful glossy apertures that I haven't wanted to dip in muriatic acid and lose the gloss. Have you heard about the safe HCL? If so, are you planning to do a video to test it?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I do not like, promote or use Safe HCL any longer. I have used it in the past but no longer. It's a very expensive product that does the same thing as Acid Magic.

[@jmo2104]

These are my favorite videos. You do such a great job.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Awe - thank you! I love finding new tricks to clean these shells!

[@Brepian]

Really interesting and informative video. I need help to clean my mother of pearl they are raw. The calcification is so thick i dont want to use grinder etc. is there a chemical method that i can soak it in and clean it off . Please suggest me something. I just want to make a few inlays for my instrument.

[@SWFBeachLife]

Try 100% bleach. Check after each 24 hour soak. I would expect that calcification to eventually flake completely off.

[@MariaPicadoCajina-wx9vg]

Beautiful all your shells! I wish I could have those pretty Florida shells. I want to ask you How do you organize them at home? . It could be nice to see it. Thank a lot for your videos. Greetings from Nicaragua in Central America

[@SWFBeachLife]

Hello Nicaragua!!! I get asked what I do with my shells a lot, so I made a video about it. Thank you so much for watching! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYu0h3aBeK-EkM0

[@cynthiarussell3115]

HI..I collected a bunch of shells last year in Atlantic city and I'm thinking about cleaning them..this would be my first time doing it..exactly how much bleach do you use and what are water to bleach ratios? What soaking containers do we use?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I soak my shells in 100% straight bleach in a rubbermaid-type container. You can soak the shells at a 50/50 ratio of water to bleach as well, but I use straight bleach. I use a container with a lid so I don't accidentally ruin anything if I happen to splash some bleach water on anything.

[@carolhopps5871]

Thank you Sharmon! Great video & tips! I'm coming down to Captiva in a week & 1/2. I can't wait!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Good shell luck to you!!

[@trinityking4586]

Did you soak in straight bleach, or diluted? How long did you soak for?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I soak in straight bleach normally for at least 24 hours.

[@gloriajackson2021]

There was another product you used that you could put your hand in that done a good job. Do you still recommend that one? I can't remember the name of it.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I do not recommend that one any longer. I am now all about this safe acid!

[@rickkinsel3998]

How would you bleach or acid-treat a huge clamshell? It takes 3 guys to lift it. Can you spray bleach or acid onto it and rinse off? I’m stumped and appreciate any advice you may have. 🙏

[@SWFBeachLife]

I hope someone else has some ideas for you. My shells are much easier to handle but I would be curious too! Plus, I would love one of those giant clams!

[@ChaosUrchin]

That one king you picked up wasn't at the end of the road, if it was dipped in the acid the calcium build up would've disappeared! I found it never hurts to just attempt to bring out some more color in my shells

[@SWFBeachLife]

I know! Everytime I go on social media someone else found a J. I'm glad I don't feel left out 😂 I hope yours finds you soon!

[@drdrew3]

The results of bleach followed by Acid Magic is impressive but the last step would be shining with mineral oil. Some of the specimens in this video would be incredible after that last step

[@leslyeschoenhuth1107]

Thanks for the Information.. Wish Acid Magic came in Quarts... I don't have many shells up here in MN.. But the ones I bought are covered in Calcium.. Ikkk..

[@SWFBeachLife]

I did see it being sold in quarts in Walmart. This link is long, but it's to a Quart size on the Walmart site: www.walmart.com/ip/Certol-Acid-Magic/994276329?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=297&adid=22222222222000000000&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=e&wl1=s&wl2=c&wl3=10352200394&wl4=pla-1103028060075&wl5=&wl6=&wl7=&wl10=Walmart&wl11=Online&wl12=994276329_10000000187&wl14=acid%20magic&veh=sem&msclkid=f91e1792c6b91b276ff172bc112c1920&gclid=f91e1792c6b91b276ff172bc112c1920&gclsrc=3p.ds

[@christinecorley7755]

When bleaching, do you use it full strength or half n half? Also...MA, what ratio do you dilute it?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I use bleach at full strength and I ended up using the MA at full strength too!

[@TineRangel]

you could also just sand them and then use a stone polishing powder--this will also get them shiny. No sense in unnecessary use of bleach and acid that will go right back into the water system :)

[@marktechsci]

White vinegar will also dissolve calcium Carbonate but it takes a lot Longer. I’m doing one now but have some of the Magic Acid on order.

[@SWFBeachLife]

I tried vinegar and it left my shell more white and cloudy. I just stick to bleach, acid magic and hydrogen peroxide. I've heard milk can work too but I've never tried it.

[@marktechsci]

The one I did over the weekend pulled 2mm of encrusting calcium carbonate off the shell, but it is sort of dull. Not sure if that is from the vinegar or how it is. When I acid dip it hopefully I’ll know more

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@marktechsci I use bleach for all my crusty stuff.

[@apopelka22]

I see how the full strength Acid Magic didn't take the shine off your BEAUTIFUL true tulip. Have you tested full shiny shells like olives or FFC's? I just got back from Sanibel/Captiva, I have my acid magic, and I'm ready to roll! I have plenty of shiny shells I can test, but if you've already tested shiny shells, I would love to hear your thoughts!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have found the acid at different strengths does indeed do different things to the shells. I have dipped some shells and they did not lose their shine but I wouldn't ever dip an olive or fighting conch. That's just me though! 😉 I have a bunch of shells that need dipping so maybe I'll drop another video to show how the acid is acting. It's the same acid I made this video with and have been using it ever since!

[@apopelka22]

@SWFBeachLife wow, you're still using the same acid? That's impressive!!! Okay, I'll continue not to dip FFC's or olives. Was hoping the Acid Magic would finally be the one that doesn't dull the shells. And I'll watch for another dipping video, I look forward to your videos every Sunday!!!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@apopelka22 I’ll continue to try things out with it too!

[@julielifford6069]

Hi! I'm new to your channel! I love your videos! I was searching for ways to clean a beautiful conch shell that was gifted to me but has been sitting outside as a decoration for many years. I'm unsure whether to try the bleach or acid on the top for fear it may crumble from sun damage. Any tips for cleaning a shell in this situation?

[@SWFBeachLife]

Welcome aboard! And your concerns about your shell are valid. Tell you what - if you'd like to email me a photo of your shell I can try to give you my best recommendation. [e-mail]

[@kimhaven9290]

When bleaching shells, do you use straight bleach or do you dilute it?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I personally use straight bleach.

[@beachesandpalms615]

Thank you for this info! I'm going to try acid magic but can you share what kind of tongs you're using? TUIA :)

[@SWFBeachLife]

I grabbed them at dollar general and the acid eventually killed them. Just use ones that you can get a good grip on the shells with. You don’t want the shell to drop in the acid 😊

[@beachesandpalms615]

@@SWFBeachLife I'll grab a couple sets of them, thank you so much

[@renahays7988]

I’ll be on Marco at the end October!! So excited , my cousin is going to take us to Keywadin and hopefully Dickmans ☺

[@SWFBeachLife]

You'll love those island! I hope you find lots of souvenirs!

[@renahays7988]

I’m sure I will! So looking forward to finding a true tulip and other treasures☺@@SWFBeachLife

[@kimgrothen4735]

Did you do a video once using Safe-HCL to clean shells? I can’t find it!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I did but I removed the video. I am now suggesting this acid magic or the next best thing I find 😃

[@kimgrothen4735]

@@SWFBeachLife, ok, thanks. I bought the safe-hcl and finally got shells while on vacation. Is there something wrong with safe-hcl, or reason I shouldn’t use it?

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@kimgrothen4735 No ma’am! I just discovered something more economical. If you have Safe HCL by all means use it!

[@ljvanstone876]

Preparing shells for display and beauty is a fun hobby. I like the way you do it. However, if you have any shells that you might later donate to a museum (or your heirs might), cleaning ruins them for research purposes. Even the periostracum has research value and is often the best source of DNA for refining the identification. Just in the past few years, natural history museums have become more interested in a shell's history and ecology, so the new buzzword is Haptobionts: the barnacles, bryozoans, piggybacking mollusks and other creatures that get attached to shells, either during the animal's life, or afterwards when the empty shell is on the bottom. I work at a natural history museum, and we are just starting a project to photograph shells that may not be as pretty, but have a rich history that reveals more of their ecology. Incidentally, the number of cataloged species and specimens in a museum multiplies! A drawback is that labeling a specimen gets more complicated, and the museum consortium of which we are a member is working out just how to do that. I am glad you enjoy shelling so much. Do think ahead to future uses of the collection; at the least, keep good data on where and when a specimen was found (for the ones you won't be cleaning...).

[@patriciawhateley8096]

The cleaning supplier that you are showing on other videos I can just use that to clean it right because I am allergic to bleach and of course I don't mess with. So will this shine and all the other stuff come off with these jugs of cleaning stuff that is advertised on your channels? Because I was getting ready to purchase the big jug and I want to make sure that it's going to clean them like these are. Could you please let me know thank you so much love you you do a great job I love watching you you always made my day

[@SWFBeachLife]

The acid magic will work on your shells as good as it worked on mine. It's okay if you skip the bleach step - you do not HAVE to bleach your shells before you dip them in the acid.

[@JG-vn5fe]

What happened with the SAFE-HCL? Was it the price or something else? This new Acid Magic is a great discovery, but seems like the same product ~ Thank you for this video!!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I like saving money so I'm all about the Acid Magic for the exact same results 😃

[@ashleyday2067]

Do you dilute the beach or soak the shells in the straight bleach? Thank you!

[@suus7967]

Hi 👋🏼 do you know how to make flat shinny Capiz shells flexible? (For folding on a corner of wood)

[@SWFBeachLife]

I do not think you can make them flexible. I think you'd have to break them and "wrap" them around the wood. Shells are made of calcium carbonate and it's not flexible like wood or other natural substances.

[@09shutterbug]

Do you use straight bleach to soak your shells or dilute it with water. Also, we brought back shells from Honeymoon Island State Park on our first ever trip to the Gulf coast. We’re from Pa and will never find shells like that off Jersey shore. We tried to make sure there were no critters inside shells. I actually found a beautiful tiny one I had to put back because I saw the critter and was disappointed that I couldn’t keep it but it will live to see another day👍Anyway, I rinsed then soaked mine in a bucket in hotel room with water and some bleach twice to clean before flying home. Some of them still smelled so I enclosed them in freezer bags before packing them up in containers to fly home. Didn’t want to risk stinking up the cabin area where we sat for the 2 1/2hr flight home 😅. Will straight bleach clean them better and get rid of smell or what else can I do to remove stinky smell? And how long can they soak in bleach safely without damaging shells color? Thanks🐚

[@SWFBeachLife]

I use straight bleach on my green and crusty shells. And you are a beach angle for looking for those hermit crabs!!! Now for smell the only thing I have discovered that works is letting the shells "air out" outside. I took my bag of cones out and it had quite a smell so I put them in a colander and l left them outside for about a month. No smell! If it's REALLY bad I would suggest burying it! I do that too with a little marker so I know where to find it again. It's truly the only thing that I have found that will completely get rid of the smell.

[@09shutterbug]

Thank you,will try to air them out

[@conniewilson5531]

First, how much bleach do you use? Full strength? No? How much water and how long?

[@tatjanakaiser9120]

How do you clean urchins and sand dollars?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have yet to find a good method for urchins. I personally just use water. For sand dollars I use hydrogen peroxide. It will whiten them without making them weak the way bleach will!

[@jennifer-ni6dc]

Went to our local Ace Hardware store and they didn’t have the Acid Magic. Guess I’ll order from Amazon. Got home from Sanibel with 55#s of shells!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Outstanding! Sounds like you have a few months worth of projects 😂

[@BevGoodwyn]

Thanks for the info and demonstration. I can't wait to try Acid Magic. But I have a question.... Is the first step of 24 hour bleach soak necessary? I'm inpatient - won't the acid clean what the bleach would if skipped. Thanks

[@SWFBeachLife]

No ma'am. You DO NOT need to soak shells in bleach before you dip them in acid. I only soak the super crusty ones before dipping. Most just need one or the other 😃

[@BevGoodwyn]

@SWFBeachLife thanks! My sister & I enjoy your videos sooo much!

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@BevGoodwyn Thank you! 🙏🏼

[@carmenissing1058]

I love your videos! I 'm so jealous of all your finds. Quick question ~ how much bleach do I use and did you dilute it? Thanks!

[@SWFBeachLife]

I do not typically dilute bleach and I use enough to cover all the shells I have in the container. I keep reusing it until it stops working.

[@carmenissing1058]

Thanks! Keep those videos coming - live watching them while it’s cold outside. I get so excited along with you when you find a beautiful shell.

[@annlitwin6985]

Also wondering what type of things did you use, they look rubber tipped or are they darker from acid and just metal? Thank you

[@SWFBeachLife]

Those tongs have a rubber tip to really grab those shells. I just picked up what the dollar store had 😃

[@LoriF25403]

How does the acid magic compare to the SafeHCL

[@nancyreber8201]

I would like to know too. Safe HCL worked so well for me. ❤

[@SWFBeachLife]

Works exactly the same. Zero downside to using Acid Magic and it's a lot more economical!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Works exactly the same. Zero downside to using Acid Magic and it's a lot more economical!

[@KelliCassarella-ek5km]

I soaked some whelks I found at folly beach in a 1:1 bleach solution for 48 hours, and some still have black on them. Do they just need to soak more? Also, does the acid help with the smell at all? Bleach hasn't completely eradicated it on a few of them.

[@SWFBeachLife]

For smell I let Mother Nature do her thing. I bury the shells in my yard under a piece of marble. After a few weeks, sometimes several weeks, the smell will eventually dissipate. For the black I would soak them a little longer but I'm not sure what is black. If it's perostracum it will come off eventually but it's possible the black is permanent - depending on what it is.

[@KelliCassarella-ek5km]

@SWFBeachLife thank you for replying!! You're pretty much famous for me at this point...i spent hours watching videos of you shelling while i was washing all my shells from my recent trip :) just got muriatic acid, more baking soda, and mineral oil today. I could send you a few pictures if you think it might help us determine whether that's just the color they are or to soak them again? I have some giant atlantic cockles that are the same, but I soaked them for 2.5 days.

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@KelliCassarella-ek5km I can take a look and let you know what I think - [e-mail]

[@susanlewis6734]

Hi! do you use straight bleach, or do you dilute? Also, does bleach work better than hydrogen peroxide?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I use straight bleach for anything crusty or green. I only use hyydrogen peroxide on sand dollars to get them whiter since it's WAY safer than using bleach on them 😃

[@nancyreber8201]

I used Safe HCL and loved it!! Why don’t you use that anymore?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I don't see any reason to spend the extra money for the same results so I'm not an Acid Magic fan!

[@nancyreber8201]

@@SWFBeachLife Can I still get Safe HCL?? What is the cost difference?

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@nancyreber8201 Gallon of Safe HCL was $70+ dollars. A gallon of Acid Magic is less than $25 on Amazon.

[@deborahmusgrove90]

Was at St. Augustine Beach recently. Picked up amazing shells, but no conch shells. Are they only found in Sanibel?

[@SWFBeachLife]

You can find them in other areas, but here in Southwest Florida, we have an abundance of a lot of the shells you can find in Florida.

[@melaniewhittington7857]

Thanks for the information!

[@SWFBeachLife]

You bet!

[@TheOneAndOnlySame]

What about clear coating them once they're dry, to preserve the shine and wet appearance?

[@SWFBeachLife]

One could do that, but I like mine more natural looking for now. Subject to change in the future!

[@TheOneAndOnlySame]

@@SWFBeachLife I just tried to use UV resin on one small snail shell but it was a bit too viscous and I feel it softened the details/creases took much . Just a note then to try and find very fluid resin/coat

[@SWFBeachLife]

@@TheOneAndOnlySame Someone mentioned a good spray that would give the shells some shine. I have left overs and I’m going to experiment with what my husband has laying around 😄

[@TheOneAndOnlySame]

@@SWFBeachLife cool 👍

[@blahblahblah7islucky]

THANK YOU!! ❤ ive never heard of this and definitely want it now, ive always been too scared to use muriatic acid. also, i thought it was so funny when you were talking about getting off all the "beach crud" because thats my favorite part!! i work in a marine research lab and a lot of what we study is what makes exactly that! the oyster scars, barnacles, and worm tubes just make me think about how cool the ocean is 😂

[@SWFBeachLife]

The ocean is the coolest! I knew nada when I moved here. There is so much to learn!! I leave the beach crud on somethings and remove it from others 😌

[@platemanFYI]

Loved watching this.

[@kimberlyeckhardt5415]

Question - I just tried this with some shells. But I noticed they felt a bit tacky afterwards. Is this normal? Wasn’t so bad after we mineral oiled them. I used it at full strength 3 seconds or less. 🤔

[@SWFBeachLife]

I have never had my shells feel tacky. I would use soap and water to remove whatever that residue is!

[@KarenBowenLynch]

Would this work on beach rocks too? I love how they look wet but they get so dull when dry...

[@SWFBeachLife]

I don't know if calcium builds up on rocks the way it does on seashells. Maybe?

[@tinastoddard5411]

I'm going to try this on my rocks. Thanks for sharing.

[@nancybremner4620]

So what happened when you did your rocks? I have lots of rocks and now have a dremel so was going to polish the shells and the rocks. Did the acid make your rocks shine?

[@tinastoddard5411]

@@nancybremner4620 I still haven't done it yet. I keep meaning to go buy some. Are you using the dremel to polish the rocks? I don't think the acid will make it super shiny, but it may help to get off the gunk or iron deposits that I find on quartz crystals.

[@nancybremner4620]

@@tinastoddard5411 Like you I haven’t done it yet either. I have saved a bunch of instructions from Pinterest regarding the rocks to polish etc. I used to use varnish to keep the rocks shiny but it yellows over time. I just ordered the safe acid from a store here in my province over $60.00 cheaper than what is on Amazon! Anyway to answer yes I am going to use my dremel to shine rocks and shells :).

[@tinastoddard5411]

@@nancybremner4620 right now if I want something shiny I put a little bit of mineral oil. Just a touch. They have it at the local Ace store at a much lower price. Let me know how it works. You'll probably beat me to it.

[@nancybremner4620]

@@tinastoddard5411 oh yes I have been also using any type of oil such as baby oil, olive oil etc etc. It does work and doesn’t leave any residue also a more expensive oil used for seasoning wooden cutting boards. Thanks for prompting this post because others will see it. I actually just “polished” a huge amount of sea glass to give it that deep colour or wet look with…wait for it….lemon furniture polishing oil LOL. Nice smell.

[@guaguatengteng]

where is the place you found all these shells, i wanna take my daughter there, she loves them!

[@SWFBeachLife]

Southwest Florida!

[@LisaBrandenburg-t3r]

I cannot use bleach, is there a good alternative? Also where did you purchase the plastic around the top of your jar?

[@SWFBeachLife]

I wish there was another alternative that worked so good, but I have not found anything other than bleach to really soak off the beach gunk. If I ever do, I will certainly make a video about it! That jar I bought at Walmart with that lid. Sadly I've broken it 🥲

[@LisaBrandenburg-t3r]

@@SWFBeachLifethank you!!

[@ajart7368]

Whats the ratio for the bleach? Straight or dilute w water?