How to Sterilize Aquarium Wood

Keeping an aquarium clean is important in order to maintain the health of the creatures who live inside the aquarium. If you are adding fish to a new aquarium or if your fish had a disease, sterilize the aquarium, rocks and wood prior to introducing new fish or other water creatures to the aquarium. Although bleach works well to sterilize surfaces, if the bleach is not fully rinsed, it will kill the fish and it will also lighten the color of any aquarium wood being sterilized. Using vinegar is a better option.

Things You'll Need

  • White distilled vinegar
  • 1-gallon bucket
  • Rag
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drain all water from the aquarium using a bucket or large cup. Remove all of the rocks, decorations and wood from the aquarium and set aside in a bucket or in the bathtub.

    • 2

      Mix one part white distilled vinegar with 10 parts water. Fill the aquarium and the bucket or bathtub with the water and vinegar mixture. Allow the mixture to sit for approximately 10 minutes. While allowing the aquarium and accessories to become disinfected, dip a clean rag into the water and vinegar mixture and wipe down any outside parts of the aquarium such as wood trim.

    • 3

      Empty the aquarium and the bucket. Rinse the aquarium and the aquarium accessories well with lukewarm water, preferably two to three times. If the aquarium is small enough, one easy way to rinse it thoroughly is to take it outside and use a garden hose. Refill the aquarium with water and the accessories and add your new pets.