Keeping Dried Starfish Clean and Odor-Free

You’ve decorated your home with some gorgeous dried starfish. Soon you start to notice the dust building up and wonder if you can wash and rinse them off like the other seashells in your collection. The answer is NO. Although starfish may have come from the water, they aren’t meant to return to the water after they have been dried and preserved. Doing so may cause one awful stench, not to mention decay of your precious starfish. So, what can you do to keep the starfish preserved and looking beautiful? Follow the tips below to keep your sea star nice and odor-free for as long as possible.

1. Dust Regularly: Use a soft brush or paint brush to dust your starfish on a weekly or monthly basis.
2. Keep Dry and Cool: Display your starfish in a cool, dry place.
   Then, “Can I display my starfish in a bathroom?” you ask. YES, we do! Just do your best to keep them away from direct contact with water, and realize they may not last quite as long. See Tip #3.
3. Spray Sealant: You may spray a light coating of clear acrylic sealant to your starfish to help keep out moisture. BEWARE that this may cause white starfish to yellow over time, or if you spray too much or too thick of a layer. It is a good option for starfish that may be displayed in a bathroom or near water. Otherwise, this is most likely not necessary.
4. Do NOT Soak: It is not recommended to soak starfish in water, bleach or any other solution as this will cause deterioration. Starfish that are purchased (from California Seashell Company) have already been dried and are ready to display.
5. Enjoy!