How to wash a new tank

n2fish

I'm sure this has been asked and answered but I did try a search albiet unsuccesful...

Brand new aquaruim, looks like a film on the inside, probably from manufacturing. Before I put the substrate and water in it (I know soap is a no-no) how and what do I use to clean the inside?

Boredomb

Water and a rag will work fine. Atleast this what I have been told. In I got mine I just sprayed it with the water hose.

zof

If this film doesn't come off with a rag and water use a rag and vinegar for a little more effect, but most brand new tanks are fine with a spray down of water from the garden hose.

ladayen

you can use bleach too...but as with vinegar make sure the tank gets rinsed out well and is completly dry before filling it.

BarbH

Hello and welcome to TFK I agree with using a clean rag and water. Make sure that you have not used the rag with any other chemicals so that they don't accidentally get transfered over to your tank. White vinegar would also be fine, just make sure to rinse the tank very well. I would personally stay away from bleach, some use it for sanitizing, but you have to make sure that it is rinsed out very well. The less chemicals of any kind that are used in or around the aquarium in my opinion the better.

n2fish

Thanks everybody. I was into fresh water aquariums a long time ago and just now getting back into it.

The science and technology has come a long way since then I'm sure so I need to get up to speed. That said, sounds like somethigs (cleaning a new tank) hasn't changed too much lol

Thanks for the replies and suggestions.