Can I Sterilize Sand in the Microwave?

[Guest]

Ok that was an odd title...but I couldn't tink of a better one . MY mom has just about had it with me cleaning hermit crab stuff in her kitchen (ie boiling and baking) but I have sand that I need to bake cause I'm not sure if it is clean. She said that I can microwave it...If I put it in a microwavable container (like a pyrex pan or bowl) would that clean it? Like, would it kill any mites that may possibly be hiding in there? If not what would?

[Guest]

I can't think of any reason that microwaving *wouldn't* work for cleaning your sand. You'll want to keep a VERY close eye on it, as microwaving can generate a LOT of heat. You don't want to cause a fire. I think I'd start off with one minute, give it a good stir, then try two minutes, then give it several two minute zaps, stirring each time.

[SeaShellE]

I have sucessfully microwaved sand and sponges (dry)for a long time now. Like 2 years. I do 2-3 minutes and stir then again about 3 times. I have even nuked my cholla but you have to vigilant with it so you don't catch it on fire.

[PSUPrncess10]

yes, you can microwave sand, but it will take a LONG time to cool down.... I used to do it in the dorm when I didnt have an oven and when I only had a 10gal... I wouldnt even try it with my 20L.... so yes it is possible, but the amount of time you need to put it in to get it hot enough mans it will take quite a long time to cool enough to put back in the tank

[Guest]

I microwaved it until it was too hot to hold your hand on there, then I let it cool down by pouring it on a peice of newspaper and seperating it (into quarters so it wasn't touching and couldn't hold heat so it was cool faster) It was cool and ready to go in the tank within an hour I'd say. I will take some pics today ringo, I'll get them on here this afternoon.