How to Cure Natural Driftwood for an Aquarium

Driftwood from the beach might be attractive and look ready to pop in an aquarium just as it is. However, the wood may carry a range of pathogens and parasites that make fish very ill. Further, driftwood tends to absorb salt, which is not helpful in a freshwater tank. The tannins in driftwood can raise the acidity of an aquarium as they leach into the water. Because many species of fish need a very specific pH, it is helpful to soak out most of the tannins before putting the driftwood in the tank. On a practical note, the wood might be too large to fit in your tank. Careful preparation of your found decoration avoids any problems.

Things You'll Need

  • Buckets
  • Cleaning brush
  • Saw
  • Large pan
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill several buckets with tap water and allow them to stand for 24 hours, to allow the water to dechlorinate.

    • 2

      Scrub dirt, sand and debris from the driftwood with a cleaning brush and some of the dechlorinated water. Use a new brush, not one that has previously been used for cleaning your home, which could transfer toxins to the wood.

    • 3

      Cut the driftwood into pieces small enough to fit into the pan and your aquarium.

    • 4

      Place the driftwood pieces in the pan, cover with dechlorinated water and bring to a boil on your stove. The boiling kills pathogens and quickly leaches out the remaining tannins and salt.

    • 5

      Reduce the heat until the water is just simmering and leave it for 30 minutes. Drain the water, which should be dark with tannins, add fresh water and bring the pan to a boil again. Repeat until the water remains relatively clear.

    • 6

      Allow the pan to cool, drain the driftwood and rinse it in more dechlorinated water. It is now ready to go in your aquarium.