Aquarium Gravel Cleaning

Did you know your aquarium gravel you've just bought to put in the aquarium have been in the wash first? Don't worry, it only takes a few simple steps.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 30 minutes
Here's How:

1. Purchase enough gravel to cover the aquarium bottom approximately three inches deep.
2. If you don't already have one, purchase a 5 gallon bucket and label it for aquarium use only. Aquarium buckets should never have soap in them.
3. Place a large clean sieve, at least 6 inches across, over the bucket. Fill the sieve half full of gravel.
4. Pour water over the gravel in the sieve, while gently shaking it. Rinsing the gravel over the bucket rather than over a drain, allows gravel that slips through the sieve to be caught instead of going down the drain. Continue pouring water over the gravel until the water runs clear. Several washings are usually required.
5. Once the water runs clear, the gravel is ready to be used. It may be placed directly into the tank or in a clean bucket or container.
6. Repeat steps three through five until you have washed enough gravel to fill the aquarium three inches deep.

Tips:

1. A rule of thumb for the amount of gravel to use is one pound of gravel per each gallon of water.
2. Old buckets may be used if they are thoroughly cleaned with bleach, rinsed well, and allowed to air dry.

What You Need:

• 6" or larger sieve
• 5 gallon bucket