How to Make Seashells Safe for Your Fish Tank

Keeping fish as pets is a hobby that gives appreciation for the underwater world. Because aquariums are generally in living rooms or on display, aesthetics play a key role in the environment you provide for your fish. Seashells placed in the fish tank serve as both decoration and shelter. Before you place the seashells into the tank, it is important to clean and sterilize them to prevent the introduction of bacteria or parasites that could potentially harm your watery environment and fish habitat.

Things You'll Need

  • Pot
  • Water
  • Stove
  • Bowl
  • Bleach
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bring a pot of water to a boil on the stove. Place the seashells into the boiling water. Lower the stove temperature so the water is at a slow boil. Keep the shells in the water for at least 20 minutes.

    • 2

      Drain the water and let the shells cool. Once cool, take them out of the pot and dry them.

    • 3

      Add water to a large bowl. Add 1 tsp. of bleach to the water.

    • 4

      Soak the shells in the mild bleach-water solution for 30 minutes; this is long enough to kill any remaining parasite or bacteria, but not long enough to seriously discolor the shells.

    • 5

      Remove the shells and rinse them thoroughly under tap water. Add them to the tank.