HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I keep two 2.5 quart tupperware bowls in my 'tat for the fresh and saltwater pools. I have bubblers in both and change the water out about every 3 days unless they are super dirty. I have extra shells in the pools for the crabs to climb in and out as well as needlepoint canvas ladders.

Today after rinsing the bowls and shells, I noticed that they had a white dusty film after they dried. I rinsed them again (with dechlorinated water both times) and they still had the film upon drying.

Could this be due to hard water or is there another possible reason?

I use Prime and Instant Ocean.

I think it could be from the hard water and/or the shells wearing down some. I know some of my pretty polished shells are a bit hazy looking now (though not dusty) - but I have very soft water here.

Sounds like hard water to me. When I lived out in the country it was impossible (even with our water softener) to not have this happen in my fish tanks.

Yup, hard water. A vinegar soak should remove the build up. I have to deal with it myself!

Thanks everyone!

Yeah, the tank I bought had lots of it around the top as it was an aquarium. It took a lot of elbow grease with a scrubbing sponge but the vinegar and hot water did the trick!