Discard any clams with cracked, broken, or open shells that do not close when tapped
Rinse clams under cold running water
Scrub the shells with a stiff brush to remove sand and debris
Soak clams in a bowl of cold salted water for 20 to 30 minutes
Lift clams out of the water and discard the dirty water
Repeat the soaking and draining process until no sand remains
Rinse clams one final time under cold running water
Remove any beards from mussel-like clams if present by pulling them toward the hinge
Keep cleaned clams cold until ready to cook