Still, there is some work left for you to do. If you want to take these pieces of beach glass and transform them literally into art, then you have some work ahead of you. It's not hard - but each step needs to be followed. The results will please you, making future efforts all the easier.
Start with water. Get a bucket or two and fill them with warm water to which a mild detergent or soap has been added. Carefully and thoroughly wash each piece of glass. This well cut down on the salty smell left by the sea. Any particles of sand or sea weed will also be removed by this process.
Next, return the glass to a clean jar or other container in which fresh water has been poured. You want to let the glass simply soak for an hour or more. After the glass has soaked - removing any last residues of soap - then bring it out and place them in a colander. Strain under cold running water for at least a full minute and preferably more.
Next, lay each piece of sea glass on a soft piece of cloth. Old flannel shirts work well, as do cotton sheets or other cloths that are smooth and gentle to the touch. Solid colors are best - if you use a cloth with too many colors, you might lose sight of each glass.
Let each piece of sea glass dry.
Once it has dried out you are ready to work over each piece by hand. Brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Dip it in warm soapy water and then scrub the glass. Be sure you get both sides and also pay particular attention to the edges. Be careful not to scrape the glass or otherwise mark it up.
Rinse the cleaned pieces. Then, dry off each piece. Polish it carefully until it gleams and glistens.
And you are finished! You can move the sea glass to whatever container or shelf where you store it.
Be sure to give it a quick clean from time to time - you can get the dust off, and really let it shine!