New gravel: should I wash?

[VulcanNinja]

I am starting a new 2 gallon for a betta and I have transfered some "healthy" gravel from my cycled 10 gal. However, I need to add more gravel. I will buy some more, but is it safe to rinse it in tap water? I know the chlorine will kill the beneficial bacteria, but if I rinse it and then add it, will it hurt the healthy gravel at all? If not what other options do I have??

 

[yhbae]

You can wash them (the new gravel) in tap water thoroughly then put them into water. If you want to be absolutely sure you can also add dechlorinator that you normally add for water change but this isn't essential. Chlorine does escape quite easily into the atmosphere especially if you aerate or shake them well. Just rince, remove as much tap water as you can, then place them into the tank.

 

[VulcanNinja]

Ok, I usually don't use dechlorinator, but I just keep the water out for a day or 2.

 

[Final Dynazty]

Use your tank water to clean the gravel next time you do a water change.

 

[FishDan]

Just add it to your tank. The minute amount of chlorine that may end up in your tank will be so dilluted (even in a 2 gallon tank) that it won't do anything to upset your bacteria or fish.

\Dan