Play sand as substrate

[Dawnkniest]

Hi I am just setting up another tank and this time using sand for cichlids. I have got 20kg of it but am not sure how I go about cleaning it.

Any suggestions?

 

[thominil]

Moved to Freshwater & Brackish - General discussion

 

[Randi]

Sand is easier to clean than gravel because all of the waste just sits on top of it. Hover your siphon about 1/2 an inch above the sand and move it in small circles. With a little practice you'll be able to do it without sucking up any of your sand.

edit: Make sure to rinse your play sand really well before you put it in the tank or your water will be cloudy for a long time.

 

[Dawnkniest]

Thanks for your reply I was actually referring to rinsing the sand. I am only familiar with rocks and do that with a colander so not sure how to prepare the sand before I put on tank.

 

[Randi]

Oh, sorry - Just put it in a bucket and rinse it with water from the hose, stirring it with a stick or your hand, until the water running off is clear. This can take a long time!