Using Rocks From Backyard?

[mattandmyoscars]

I have a garden and around the garden are nice stones to stack and make caves and give my tank a beautiful look can I use them? I was going to scrub the surface dirt off let them soak then boil them! Would that be an appropriate way to go about this?

 

[Pandicorn]

Don't boil, they might explode. Maybe use the hottest setting in the tub, and just rinse it for a while. Also freezing works too. Best to scrub it [emoji106]. Pour a small amount of vinegar on it. If it fizzes, don't use it!

 

[mattandmyoscars]

Don't boil, they might explode. Maybe use the hottest setting in the tub, and just rinse it for a while. Also freezing works too. Best to scrub it [emoji106]. Pour a small amount of vinegar on it. If it fizzes, don't use it!

They explode?!? Wow ok thank you so much for your help I really appreciate it man!

 

[Pandicorn]

They explode?!? Wow ok thank you so much for your help I really appreciate it man!

Not all rocks, just if they have Air bubbles. Rare, but not unheard of. No problem!

 

[Pandicorn]

To clarify- You can Rinse them in boiling water, but don't actually boil them.

 

[BillD]

Save the energy and scrub them and soak in a bleach and water bath for a while. rinse and use. Rocks from a yard won't have any aquatic pathogens but bleach will help burn off anything else that may be on it.

 

[CPryor]

I'll echo what other's have said - I'd rinse and scrub (no soap), vinegar test, soak in bleach water, rinse , then let COMPLETELY air dry - the bleach is inert once it evaporates. To be doubly sure, I dunk my decorations in a bucket of water treated with a dechlorinator just prior to adding them to a tank, in case anything gets left.

Probably overly complicated, but it gives me peace of mind