General Care Discussion :: Hydrogen peroxide?

[scripta_elegans]

a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution is very effective in killing microbes, actually more effective than bleach, and is extremely quick to break down in water to be harmless (at least to people). If I wash everything well after disinfecting with HO, shouldn't this be okay for cleaning the tank and accessories?

[CountryGirl68]

I've heard of hydrogen peroxide being used to disinfect fish tanks, but when that is done, the tank is left with a light on for at least 3 days without adding any fish. It takes approximately that long for the peroxide to decompose in the water. However, not all fish enthusiasts use this method because it can be toxic to some fish.

I don't know about using it with a turtle tank, but I would guess that if the tank is rinsed out really well with hot/very warm water before filling, you would be able to get rid of any residual peroxide. I wouldn't risk leaving it in the water you will be placing your turtle.

[amazingcc]

A friend of mine has actually done this (after a hatchling died of RI), and as long as you rinse everything REALLY WELL afterwards (w/hot water!), your turts should be fine. It's soooo much safer than bleach!