HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I just emptied out all the sand for a deep clean... How do I clean the tank.. is there anyting I can use besides water... I know no chems... ANy ideas on how to make it easier... The heater cord is dangling off.. kinda rules out the bath tub idea... Help as soon as possible since I have the crabs in a tiny cage while I am cleaning thier tank.THanks !!!

Unless you're dealing with a mold outbreak or bug infestation, it's not necessary to do more than just wipe down the inside. I use paper towels dampened with distilled water to get the last of the sand out of the bottom.

Mabey you could use white vinigar if you wash it off properly.

The absolute best stuff to scrub out a very dirty aquarium is either BAKING SODA or SALT. Both are natural, odorless, nontoxic and both will disolve and leave no residue when completely rinsed away. And, they're CHEAP!!!!! With either one, just use enough to make a paste, and use it with a paper towel like you would any scouring powder. I'd start with the baking soda, and if you need more abrasive power, switch to the salt. WARNING: Test this first in an inconspicuous area of your tank to be sure it won't scratch. I probably wouldn't use the salt on an acrylic aquarium because it would be TOO abrasive. I've scrubbed many glass aquariums with salt and baking soda, and its usually gotten the worst out. If you have some stubbern calcium deposits or remaining haziness, Crazy's white vinegar idea is right on the money, literally!! Rinse well and let dry to get rid of the vinegar odor.I'll be going through this whole process today, actually in about 10 minutes, after I finish my coffee!!!!! I'll post to let you know what worked best this time. (I've got a REALLY CRUSTY old 29 gallon fishtank that has set in a dirty basement for about 5 years. Hopefully it will be my new crabitat!!!)Doug

If the spots are mineral deposits from the water, they can be avoided by using distilled water to clean the tank, and for any tank misting you do. I've been doing that for over a year, and my tanks stay spot-free. I doubt distilled water would remove existing buildup, though.

the tank clean up went better than I expected today. Like I said, the tank was crusty with calcium deposits. After it was used as an aquarium, and the fish were transferred out, it was left to sit for a while before being stuck in a back corner. Lots of water evaporated and left tons of thick,white, stuck-on deposits. I started with the salt right away, and used its scouring effect to scrub off the worst, rinsed and wiped it out and let it dry, then went over the hazyness with a bit of vinegar. I gave it a wipe/rinse with water once more, and the vinegar odor was gone as soon as it dried. I'd say it is about 90% good as new, which for the price (nothing) is fine with me.