Cleaning Used tanks

[SCGeordie]

Just picked up some used tanks through Craigslist - 2 x 10g, 2 x 20g and 1 5g.

Wanting to use the 5g and maybe one of the 10g's as quarantine tanks, the other 10g to 'speed grow' plants - moss etc that come in small bunches, using plant lights, C02 and the Nitrate loaded water from WC's on my other tank(s). Then the 20's.......well, haven't decided on what they will be for yet.

My question is, what is the best way of cleaning used tanks (a couple of these were used for reptiles even though they are not reptile tanks, and one of the 20's had hamsters or guinea pigs in it (couldn't identify the poop in the corners but it looks rodent-like)?

Also, I intend to re-seal them all before using them so can I use regular silicone from Home Depot or does it have to be 'special' tank sealent from the LFS/Petsmart?

 

[convict2010]

You can use regular silicone but it has to be for doors and windows because the one for the tubes and sinks mildew after a while. an it just has to be 100 percent silicone

 

[elting44]

Vinegar and a Razorblade. Get the elbow grease off the shelf and go at it.

 

[SCGeordie]

You can use regular silicone but it has to be for doors and windows because the one for the tubes and sinks mildew after a while. an it just has to be 100 percent silicone

So are the silicon sealers that say they are "mildew resistant" or have anti-fungals suitable?

 

[geronimo69]

So are the silicon sealers that say they are "mildew resistant" or have anti-fungals suitable?

I would get aquarium silicone to be safe. You'll only need 1 tube for those little tanks. Like $10 or so.

 

[West1]

I found a metal scraper worked best and rthe Razor for final touches.
When I get new tank, I clean them out with a garden hose and a extra piece of Mechanical Filteration. Let it dry for a few days and im ready to fill'er up.