Using old tanks

[Neal]

Alright, here's my first question to the forum!

As mentioned in my intro and signature, I'm "into" tortoises. I have several glass aquariums that were at one time used to house some tortoises, but now are sitting empty in my storage closet. I would like to use one of these for my next aquarium project, so my question is going to be, could any of the substrates that I used to house the tortoises leave...(residue, trace elements,???)...that would be harmful to a saltwater aquarium?

Here are the specific types of substrates I have used in these tanks:

- Peat moss
- Dirt
- Cypress Mulch
- Hay

The tortoises that were in there, of course, pooped and peed in the tanks. Would a good old fashion water rinse from the hose be sufficient to wash away my concerns, so to speak, or are there other options I could do to ensure the glass aquariums are suitable to use as saltwater aquariums?

There have never been any chemicals use on the inside or outside of the tanks.

 

[ErinCahir]

Are you sure they're aquariums and not terrariums?
Terrariums aren't built to withstand the pressure/weight of the water.

 

[Neal]

Yes, I am sure they are aquariums meant to hold water.

 

[kbuser92]

Should be okay to just rinse good and i would dry with paper towels, but thats just me and probably isnt necessary. Just wash them out good and wipe any substrate out if any is left. (Im sure you know no soap.)

 

[SarahSmile]

I've seen vinegar mixed with water recommended a lot.

 

[little_fish]

+1 Sarah

 

[AmberSunrise]

My previous seahorse tank had been a water turtle tank and I used vinegar and really hot water and it worked great.

 

[Smitty]

Yep, a vinegar and water mixture willi do the trick.

 

[Neal]

Cool thanks!

Any tips on the ratio of vinegar to water?