Anyone used racks from fragrocks.com?

[MoshJosh]

So ordered this magnet rock/rack from fragrocks.com (actually ordered through Amazon) and it looks awesome but some of the color seems to be rubbing off? Doesn't seem to be paint, as the material (rubbery plastic) itself appears to be purple. . . ??? Even after washing it in dawn I am still getting purple off of it. I will definitely soak in saltwater before using if I even attempt it.

 

[shawnycool319]

Ah, yep — that’s actually pretty common with rubbery/plastic frag racks that are dyed. Many of these aren’t painted but are injection-molded or dyed plastic, and the color isn’t fully “locked in.” That’s why you’re seeing purple rub off when you handle or wash it — the pigment is leaching from the surface. Soaking in tank water before use is smart, as it will help rinse out loose dye and reduce the risk of it affecting your tank. I’d recommend soaking a few days and giving it a gentle scrub with a soft brush, then rinse well. After that, it should be mostly stable. It’s unlikely to harm your corals as long as you’re thorough with the pre-soak, but avoid using it if you notice purple residue in the water after soaking — that’s a sign more pigment could leach in your tank.