Lake Michigan sand

[cometcattle]

I have a 10g with no substrate. I was wondering if it would be ok to put sand from the lake in my tank. Of course I would wash it thouroghly. Its pretty much soaking in the same water that my fish swim in. Or should I just go and buy some playground sand?

Also, does anyone have an opinion on how regular playground sand would look if I mixed some black gravel in with it?

Thanx

 

[Nina7777]

Hi there- to be honest with you I have never thought of getting sand from a lake. So maybe someone else can better answer that question. As far as I can see there should be no reason you can't if you wash it super good.

In question to your adding black gravel to the sand. I wouldn't advise it as the gravel will all come to the top anyways and there will be no point or benefit to having the sand.

 

[Tempestuousfury]

I wonder. I might go there during the summer, so it might be worthwhile to entertain the possibility.

As for playsand, how much does it cost when bought from a toy store? Which types of sand are best and/or safest?

 

[Nina7777]

any type of play sand will do. You can get a 50lbs bag at home depot for under 3 us dollars. just make sure to rinse it good.