How to Prepare Rocks for Use in an Aquarium

You could buy all of your rocks and aquarium decorations at your local pet stores, but that can be an expensive option. Sometimes you will find rocks, driftwood and other items that would look perfect in your home aquarium, but it is important to clean and sterilize them properly first. Introducing rocks and other items into your tank without properly cleaning them could result in contamination, and the loss of your fish.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Bucket
  • Warm water
  • Scrub brush
  • Bleach
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the rocks you plan to use in your aquarium and place them in a bucket of warm water. Allow the rocks to sit in the water for at least a couple of days to remove any surface dirt and other impurities.

    • 2

      Remove the rocks from the water, allow them to dry and then submerge them again. Change the water one more time and rinse the rocks off again. Use a scrub brush to remove any additional dirt from the rocks.

    • 3

      Fill a bucket with a solution of bleach and water, then submerge the rocks in that solution and allow them to soak for at least a couple of days. If you do not want to bleach the rocks you can place them in a large pot and boil them on your stove or grill.

    • 4

      Dry the rocks completely before you place them in your aquarium. Make sure that all dirt and contaminants have been removed before placing the rocks in your aquarium.