How to Clean a Red-Eared Slider Turtle Tank

Keeping your pet red-eared slider turtle's tank clean is essential to keeping your turtle healthy and happy. It also keeps your home smelling clean, as nothing can stink up your house like a dirty turtle tank. The process of disassembling the tank for cleaning can be time consuming, but it is for the good of your turtle. There are a few telltale signs that your turtle tank needs cleaning, such as cloudy, colored or foul-smelling water, or if your turtle is diseased or there is algae growing in the tank. Tanks should be cleaned each time you change the water or at least every 30 days to keep your turtle and its tank in optimum condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Hot water
  • White vinegar
  • Sponge
  • Old toothbrush
  • Betadine antiseptic solution
  • Table salt
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove your turtle from the tank and place it into a secure holding area, such as a tall plastic tub or a bathtub.

    • 2

      Remove all equipment (filters, heaters and lights), decorations and basking surfaces from the tank.

    • 3

      Empty the tank of water and thoroughly wash the insides with equal parts hot (not boiling) water and white vinegar. Wipe down all sides with a sponge. Use a toothbrush to get into corners of the tank.

    • 4

      Wash all equipment, decorations and basking surfaces with hot water, using a toothbrush to scrub each piece. Avoid washing the light; simply wipe it clean with a damp sponge or soft cloth.

    • 5

      Squirt an antimicrobial solution, such as Betadine, onto the sides of the tank, all equipment except the light, decorations and basking surfaces.

    • 6

      Rinse the tank, equipment, decorations and basking surfaces thoroughly to remove any disinfecting solution.

    • 7

      Replace all equipment, decorations and basking surfaces in the tank.

    • 8

      Refill the tank with clean, warm water.

    • 9

      Allow all equipment to run for 30-45 minutes, then place the turtle back into the tank.