Does my betta tank need salt?

[minyip]

Hello everyone,
So I was at a new fish store today buying a tank as I'm planning to get a betta fish. I told the lady this and at the end as I went to pay she said, "You know about all the chemicals and salt yeah?"
I wasn't too sure what she meant so I replied, "salt?" with probably a very confused expression on my face.
She then went on to explain that the tank must have 1 TBSP per 10 gallons of aquarium salt added when I change the water and basically just added a packet of salt to my items without really asking me if I even wanted it.
I've heard of people adding salts as medication and even some people choosing to add salt as a preventative measure. But I've never heard people say that its necessary for freshwater fish. I thought people even recommend against adding salt.
I'm doubting myself now. Freshwater fish don't need salts right? I've had another fresh water tank for over a month with no salts and seems to be going okay. Is it a betta thing? Or was she misinformed? Or have I just somehow missed this in my research.
Thanks in advance!

 

[TheAvs21]

I have only been doing this myself for year and a half - 2 years, but I would say you were right. I've only heard it used before with certain sickness for fish. I've had 2 Betta tanks for the time I've been in hobby and never used or heard of needing to use aquarium salt on a normal basis in a Betta tank. I have learned (at least in my area) don't trust what the employees at the pet stores tell you. Specifically the big box pet stores.

 

[Aiken Drum]

She is just trying to sell you aquarium salt. Everything you have said about salt in FW aquariums is correct.

 

[minyip]

Thanks guys. Appreciate the help