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How2 Clean a Second-Hand Tank ?

Me-and-Salazar

Me-and-Salazar

New member
I recently purchased a second hand tank for my new hatchling Salazar. Even though I already have a small tank for him, I wanted to get a larger one for him to exercise in and grow into. However, when I went to pick up the tank, it still had dirt and grime in it from the previous owners pet. Also included were two large pieces of wood, two lamps, a top and a back ground. To top it all off it had been sitting in the mans garage for a couple of years collecting dust.

I want to get it cleaned, sanitized and set up for Salazar, but am unsure how to start. I'm worried about germs and parasites, but I also don't like using chemicals to clean pets equipment.

Does anyone have some tips to help me clean up this mess, and use for future tank cleanings?
 
Bleach. One part bleach, nine parts water is fine. Dry it but also let it air dry completely for a few days.
 
Stars said:
Bleach. One part bleach, nine parts water is fine. Dry it but also let it air dry completely for a few days.
Click to expand...

Ditto.

IMO, though, scrap the wood (and background, if it's one of those foam or cork or whatever ones that goes inside the tank). IMO, using anything porous that's been used for another animal (especially when you don't know whether it was ever ill or anything) is like playing with fire. :shrugs:
 
Agreed! Toss the wood. Anything with foam. Fill the tank with a bleach solution or Nolvasan and let it sit for 24 hours or so. Rinse it until there is no more bleachy odor and let it dry. Should be good to go. I usually run ceramic and plastic furniture, bowls, etc., through bleach solution in the dishwasher with heated drying. It's as good as a Autoclave for sterilizing and disinfecting equipment.
 
1.- rinse
2.- use bleach wiping towel
2 1/2.- rinse
3.- dry under sun light
4.- use wipe out 1
5.- wipe
dry under sun light again
 
I agree with using bleach. I would wash with an antibacterial soap first. A good dish liquid, with water that is HOT. Rinse thoroughly!

Then using a mild bleach to sanitize it. Fill up the tank, if it will hold water and add a 1/4c of bleach. Let it stand for 10-15 minutes. Then Empty. Rinse with hot water. Allow to air dry for several days.

As far as re-using any furniture, you could wash it the same way as the tank, soak in a bleach solution and then bake it in the over, if it's made only of real wood.

To bake it, place it in an oven that is 200-250F, for 2-3 hours. This should kill any germs, bacteria or parasites that made it through the wash.

Make sure you allow everything to air dry for a few days!

Good Luck!

Wayne
 
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