How to clean a tank

[Kathyd]

I got a great tank at a garage sell, but it is covered with this crusty stuff. The stuff is cloudy on the glass and brown on the plastic. I've been trying to clean it with paper towels and vinegar, but that isn't going to work. Does anyone know a better way to clean a glass tank and parts?

Thanks a lot.

[gourami*girl]

I cleaned some used dirty tanks I got by soaking in hot bleach water, then rinsing very very well. Some folks won't suggest this b/c bleach is very bad for fish if there is any trace left in, so keep in mind that if you do use bleach you will have to rinse very well. Try using a scrubby also, as long as the tank is glass and not acrylic it shouldn't scratch so you can scrub it or even use a razor blade. Once most of the gunk is off you could try the vinegar again as it's the best for removing mineral deposits and water stains.

Also, add some extra dechlorinator to the water once you fill your tank for good to counteract any extra chlorine from the bleach.

Best of luck and I hope this helps!

[Northernguy]

Make sure you clean all the bleach out!
Was it used for fish or reptiles before?

[ladyoutlaw50]

I also use bleach and hot water and lots and lots of scrubbing and then lots and lots of rinsing and then some more rinsing!! It takes me a couple of days of staying at it then before I even put fish in -- I rinse again in hot water!! I also wipe out with a clean rag in between the last few rinses to make sure I got any standing water that may still have some bleach in it. I think if you are very careful and don't rush -using bleach is ok

[Kathyd]

Thanks for the replies.

It was used for cat fish. At least some sinking cat fish pellets came with it. The net big compared to my little betta net and there was a divider, so in my head I see this guy breeding plecos or something like that. I know it was used for fish, though, because it also came with a filter and air pump.

I'll try the bleach and razor blade for now.

Thanks again.