Cross contamination question

[FiddlersReef]

If something like a net is washed in freshwater and dried before being used in another tank, does that remove any cross contamination concern?

I know you wouldn’t want to dip a tool in the fallow DT and then straight into the QT, but with a rinse and time between, is it safe? How extreme do you need to be?

Thanks

 

[lapin]

In my ipinion. If its dipped and not left for a long period of time, rinsed and dried it should be 99%safe.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

If something like a net is washed in freshwater and dried before being used in another tank, does that remove any cross contamination concern?

I know you wouldn’t want to dip a tool in the fallow DT and then straight into the QT, but with a rinse and time between, is it safe? How extreme do you need to be?

Thanks

That removes most chances for contamination, but the key is that the item needs to be completely dry, and how long that takes depends partially on humidity.
I use a 1:10 bleach/water solution and then a good tap water rinse and air dry. That is pretty much 100% effective, but it’s a hassle and will rust metal items.
The very best thing to do is to have dedicated tank tools for each tank - just grab and go!
Jay