HCA: Hermit Crab Association

I am SO irritated right now! I was in the middle of a semi deep clean, with everything out of the tank and all over the room, the top off the tank and the whole 9 yards. I was re-measuring everyone because they almost all have molted once or twice and what I wanted to see what sizes I have at this point and my H was distracted on the phone and lit a candle. I noticed it pretty quickly and made him put it out, and there's nothing I can do about that except stop everything I was in the middle of, open the window, cover the tank and wait for the smell to dissipate.

My main concern at the moment is about all their crap all over the room. I mean, I had about 75% of all my supplies out all over the room. Do I now need to clean every one of these items to wash off any possible chemical deposits left on these items? What would you guys do? If anyone can respond with their opinion ASAP so I can finish this dang deep clean tonight.

I really wouldn't worry about a candle, it doesn't settle on things.

I know it's not funny but I'm kind of impressed that your H was able to light a candle WHILE talking on the phone!

Our Hermie recently survived the Great Suction Cup Smell Exposure, during which I trapped him in a 10g with brand new suction cups that poisoned the air in the whole tiny tank. He went under to escape and didn't come out until well after I'd discovered it and aired the tank. With your candle in a larger area which you aired out quickly, I'd think the exposure was less concentrated. I used to light candles daily, I never considered the chemicals that might be in them!

Hope everyone is okay!

Yeah I definitely wouldn't worry about a candle. They're far more durable than we give them credit for. I didn't even think about the chemical thingy when my dad and I were cleaning the basement a few months ago (with several really smelly chemicals). Never seemed to bother the crabs and they're all still alive so. c:

hprmom wrote:I know it's not funny but I'm kind of impressed that your H was able to light a candle WHILE talking on the phone!

Yes, so am I. The dog had diarrhea in the room moments before so he was inspired. Most of the time he is very conscientious about putting the blanket over the top, this time he simply forgot.

Thanks everyone for the response.