Infected tank?

Question
My little spotted green puffer recently died and now his freshwater tank is empty. I'd like to put something else into the tank eventually but I'm not sure what he died from. Is it possible that the tank could be infected if he was diseased? How should I go about cleaning and preparing for a new fish? I really don't want to have to cycle all over again...

Answer
Sarah,
Your green freshwater puffer is actually a brackish water/salt water fish and the reason he died is that he was not in the conditions that he needed. Your pet shop should have told you about this fish.
To clean the tank, use regular salt and water mixed, lots of salt, non iodized table salt is fine or aquarium salt.
No detergent of any kind but if you must use a disenfectant use regular bleach mixed with water.
Rinse the tank very well and use a chlorine neutralizer to dissapate any residual chlorine.
You could also set the tank outside in the sun to neutralize anything left over as well.
Once the tank has been cleaned up it will have to cycle again, not a problem and you can assist by adding any of the good bacteria available to speed things along.
Don;t forget to ask your pet person at the fish shop about the fish you wish to get.
If they cannot answer you, I can.
Mail if you need any further assistance.