How to kill all bacteria

[Ryan75]

I was wondering how everyone disinfects an air stone or a filter after they have had harmful bacteria, infections, or any other nasty thing in their tank?

 

[redtailcatfreak]

Well at my LFS i work at for some reason we tank out the decor in the tanks and bleach them. Then soak in vinegar and rinse off with hot water. That kills all the algea and bacteria on the stuff to keep it looking nice.

 

[brich999]

Bleach just be sure you rinse well.

 

[BMac91]

Yeah VERY VERY WELL. Like once you feel like you have rinsed them enough, go back and rinse it a few more times.

 

[Freezekougra]

Don't quote me on this but I believe chlorine bleach is safe if you let it dry and evaporate

 

[redtailcatfreak]

thats why we use the vinegar after we bleach it. If u let is soak it negates the bleach then just rinse with water

 

[Ryan75]

Even the filter?

 

[redtailcatfreak]

even the filter. Though youll be loosing alot of beneficial bacteria.

 

[Spiritofthesoul]

I would usually also do a 5min boiling water dip if applicable, just to be safe.
Like for decorations and substrate. Do not use it on your filter as hot water may damage the filter pump.

 

[ziggy2]

Keep in mind, you will be starting all over with a new cycle.