Major Clean...

[nickward_uk]

Having just got hold of my new (to me.. ) second hand tank, I'm thinking it would be prudent to give the tank a major clean.

Whats the best way to do this? Is it neccassary?

I'm oviously not wanting to throw a load of washing up liquid in there - do I just need to clean it out with plenty of fresh water, or is there more I should do?

Cheers

Nick

 

[Weaver]

If it was me Id give it a good washing out just to be on te safe side
The last 2nd hand tank I bought was cleaned using salt,a soft scrubber,piles of hot water and plenty of rinsing
I know others use very diluted bleach solutions etc so you will probably get a few options

 

[kris-b-]

Using vinegar or bleach solution is very good as long as you rinse it well afterwards.

 

[sunflower]

Personally I'd never use a bleach solution no matter how weak!

I have used specific aquarium interior cleaner when I've needed to.

 

[Tolak]

Bleach user here. A mixture of 1 part bleach to 19 parts water disinfects bacteria & viruses. Rinse well afterwards. If it's a larger tank that is difficult to move, wipe down the inside with the bleach/water mixture. Fill with water with double the dechlor. Drain & fill with water, and you are done.

I've done this with many tanks, never had a problem. Just make sure to use bleach without any additives such as soap.

Tolak

 

[Mo_loves_fish]

NO BLEECH!
HOt water and some salt.
and a CLean rag will do fine.
then
rinse with cool water
I find this method works well.

 

[tidytourniquet]

Ive used the bleach method on all 4 of my second hand tanks. It worked well with getting rid of any left over algae and any other crud that was on them or in them.

 

[dgwebster]

my uncle recommended a simple dish ashing pad (the sponge with a scrubbing bit) with very hot water and salt. uses it on his 35 tanks.