Aquariam Setup Cleaning

Question
I am setting up a 46 gal. tank and would like to know what I can clean the inside of the tank with before I add water and gravel?

On person told me that I could use bleach but have to rinse it what hot water. The hot water is suppose to neutralize the bleach. Have you ever heard this?

Also, can I use a garden hose to initially fill the tank?

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Larry,
Yes, bleach is used  a lot when cleaning out and sterilizing aquariums of course it must be rinsed out very well multiple times and allowed to run with water and lots of extra dechlorinator to be sure all the bleach is gotten out. I've never used this method of cleaning and don't think its really necessary especially if the tank has not been contaminated by a major disease or has impossible to clean dried-on algae.

One of the best methods I've used for cleaning a tank in general is to get some hot water and mix it with aquarium or just rock salt and use an algae scrubber pad from your petstore to clean the glass really well. The is not at all dangerous but you should still rinse it out. A scrubber pad and razor blade are the best tools for scraping off algae but don't use these if you have an acrylic tank for as you know, it scratches easily. Look or an algae scrubber designed for acrylic aquariums.

But since the tank is probably new, I would just take a wet paper towel and wipe the inside out of dust and other foreign particles. I use my garden hose a lot when filling tanks. There has been rumors about the dangers of toxins being released from the hose lining, especially if the hose sits out in the boiling sun. Of course if you have a "drinking water safe" hose then no problem. Let some water run outside when using the hose first before letting it fill the tank. Add plenty of water conditioner, with summer months, water companies are adding extra chlorine and chloramines to the water.

Best wishes and I hope this helps!
Karen~