Aquarium Care: Disinfecting a Fish Tank with Chlorine Bleach
Rinse the Tank and Return the Fish and Decorations to the Aquarium Use tap water to rinse the tank and fixtures as thoroughly as possible. Prepare the Tank for Disinfection Remove the fish and all fixtures, including any gravel, plants or other decorations from the tank. Mix Chlorine Bleach Disinfectant Solution and Disinfect the Tank Prepare a 1:20 dilution of chlorine bleach by mixing together one cup of bleach with 19 cups of tap water in the bucket. Evidence that your tank has too much bacteria include murky tank water and visible signs of illness in the fish (e. g. white spots). Aquarium Disinfection with Chlorine Bleach vs. Other Methods Chorine bleach is among the most common methods for disinfecting a fish tank. Chlorine bleach disinfection requires that the fish and water be removed from the aquarium, while the methylene blue disinfection is done with everything still in the tank. If the tank continues to have problems, consider performing disinfection of the tank with methylene blue. Bacteria in your fish tank can cause life-threatening illnesses in your fish. Disinfecting a fish tank with methylene blue is another commonly used procedure. Also replace the tank filter, and let the aquarium cycle for 6 - 24 hours before returning the fish. Use the solution in the bucket to disinfect the fixtures (gravel, decorations and tubing) from the tank. Next, remove the bleach solution from the tank and place it back into the bucket. Pour the bleach solution into the aquarium, and begin to clean the tank using the sponge. If the tank is large, use a measuring cup or other dipper to remove the bulk of the solution. Also be sure to disinfect the tools used in the tank, such as nets, air bubblers, and other apparatus.
