How to Sterilize Aquarium Rocks

Cleaning aquarium rocks or gravel is a vital task when it comes to maintaining the health of your fish. Typically, warm soapy water or white vinegar is all you need to clean your gravel. In rare cases, especially if you're transferring gravel from another tank whose condition is unknown, a mild bleach solution may be necessary, though some aquatic experts say the risks of using a mild bleach solution may outweigh the benefits.

Things You'll Need

  • Cup of bleach
  • Bucket
  • Latex gloves
  • Colander
  • Dechlorinator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on the latex gloves to keep bleach off of your skin. Also take note that bleach can stain clothing, so be careful not to get any on your shirt or pants.

    • 2

      Mix the cup of bleach into the bucket with about 20 cups of fresh water.

    • 3

      Place the rocks or gravel to be sterilized into the bucket and allow them to soak for approximately 30 minutes. The water level in the bucket should completely cover the rocks or gravel.

    • 4

      Drain the bleach solution from the bucket by pouring the contents out through a colander. You should put the strainer in our bathtub so that the bleach solution can go down the drain.

    • 5

      Rinse thoroughly for several minutes the gravel or rocks using the colander and warm water from your faucet.

    • 6

      Rinse the bucket out thoroughly using warm water. Make sure all of the bleach residue has been removed.

    • 7

      Fill the bucket with warm fresh water and toss in the rocks or gravel.

    • 8

      Add some dechlorinator to the bucket's water and let it sit for another 30 minutes. This will neutralize any chlorine or bleach residue that may be left over. Once it's finished soaking, you should be able to put the rocks and/or gravel into the aquarium.