I'm picking up my new(to me)tank tomorrow. I want to get started right away on getting it fish ready. The tank will need to be cleaned really well to start with. What is the best way to clean the tank. I don't want to leave harmful chemicals in the tank.

I think I heard you can use a vinegar/water solution...not sure of the mix but think its something like 1 part vinegar to 10 parts water....not positive though but i'm sure someone will be able to help soon.

Congrats on the new tank. for cleaning a used tank I always Use a light bleach solution (to kill anything that might prove harmful in the tank) and a soap free scrubby pad. And a razor blade if needed. Once the tank is clean it must be rinsed REALLY well. and if in doubt, rinse again.

Then when I fill the tank, I double the amount of aquasafe, just to make sure that the bleach is dechlorinated.

Hope this helps.

OK, thanks a lot.

Like Nicki said...just make sure if you use any scrubbers or buckets or anything during cleaning that they haven't had soap on them or anything...this can kill your fish. It wouldn't be a bad idea to buy brand new buckets and stuff and label them "fish only" so you know they will be safe.

ikkie78 wrote:


Yeah I did get all new buckets etc. for the fish. I didn't know it was advised but I figured the buckets I wash the car with wouldn't be the best to use lol..

Thanks...

oops I forgot to ask. When you say "scrubbers" are you talking about a Scotch-Brite pad etc.?

any scrubber that doesn't contain soap.

Some people dont fill their tanks up fully and if they live in a hard water area they can be a limescale line on the glass of the tank. Use the vinegar solution to remove this. Rinse very well after

Thanks..

yeah i have used vinegar and water solution to sterilize an empty tank that was highly infected with ick. worked like a charm, just rinse it out really well.

usually used tank has water scale... and that is what need a lot of effort in
cleaning...if not for that... a water douche is enough.

i have a friend who worry much in cleaning his new "used tank" in the process,
using a knife and scraper, he remove everything including the sealant. he end up
loose glass panel after cleaning...