How to Get Rid of Turtle Tank Odors

Turtle tanks might not have the distinctive odor of even the cleanest small-mammal cages, but they can become unpleasant. Turtle waste, mold and leftover food produce unpleasant smells in both vivariums and aquariums. As well as being unpleasant for the owner, such smells indicate that the tank has become a highly unhealthy environment for the turtle. To combat the odors, provide a tank large enough for the species and clean it on a regular basis. Consider moving large turtles to an outside pond if the climate is suitable.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Aquarium filter
  • Nitrifying bacteria culture
  • Gravel cleaner
  • Bucket
  • Reptile-safe disinfectant or dishwashing liquid
  • Cleaning cloths
  • Substrate
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure your turtle̵7;s shell to determine if its current tank is big enough. If you have two turtles, measure them both and add the results. A tank that is too small becomes odorous rapidly. As a rough guide, you need at least 10 gallons of tank space for each inch of turtle. For example, a 5-inch-long turtle requires a 50-gallon tank. If the tank is too small, investigate alternative accommodations, such as an enclosed pond or a larger tank.

    • 2

      Install a powerful filter for an aquatic tank if you don̵7;t already have one. Change the filter media weekly.

    • 3

      Add a culture of nitrifying bacteria to a new aquatic turtle tank. Intended for fish tanks, these cultures contain the microbes that break down animal waste, reducing smells.

    • 4

      Remove uneaten food items every day. If the turtle tank is a vivarium or has a land area, also remove feces.

    • 5

      Perform weekly water changes if the tank is an aquarium. Remove about a quarter of the water with a gravel cleaner and bucket. Use the gravel cleaner to suction up debris as well as water. Top the tank with fresh, dechlorinated water.

    • 6

      Clean the tank at least once every couple of weeks if it is a vivarium. Transfer the turtle to a second tank, a pet carrier or a large box with plenty of air holes. Dispose of the substrate -- which is the material used for lining the tank, such as chemical-free potting compost -- and any pieces of wood or bark. Clean the tank, water and food bowls and any plastic accessories with dishwashing liquid and hot water or a reptile-safe disinfectant. Rinse thoroughly -- it might be easiest to do this outside with a hose -- and dry the tank with paper towels. Add new substrate and replace the bowels, accessories and the turtle.

    • 7

      Increase the frequency of water changes or tank cleanings if the tank continues to smell bad.