sponge size for DIY filter?

[andreahp]

I am planning to make a sponge filter for a 10gal QT/hospital tank and wondered how large of a sponge is good to get - a standard household size or extra large or what?

[Crepe]

Bigger the better. What type of sponge are we talking about? Hamburger mat? Airstone operated?

[andreahp]

What's a hamburger mat? I was planning on operating it via airpump/airstone. Are there alternative ways to operate a filter like this?

[Crepe]

A hamburger mattenfilter : http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums...er-130387.html

There are also simple power head operated sponge filters. I would get 40+ppi filter material and just cut it as big as you want.

[andreahp]

Where do I find this filter material?

[Crepe]

You can find sponge at your local mom and pop shop or big al's

[andreahp]

Hmmm...don't think I have a big al's near me - I might try Home Depot - however, if I decide to go with a regular sponge, a regular cellulose sponge is ok to use?

[xander]

I get sponges through online retailers.
Like this place.
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Filters.html
I used to shop at big ALS online but am currently boycotting them.
American aquarium products is very fairly priced in my experience.

[mudraker]

Do not use sponges meant for the kitchen or cleaning. Buy only aquarium safe sponges. You can buy them at any LFS or online.