Best way to clean live rock.

Bow4it · Feb 18, 2018

I got a hold of 100 lbs of live rock for my new 75 gallon set up. I want to kill it and start new with it and wondering which is the best method to do so. Bleach, acid or other. I and leaning towards bleach because I would like to start off with new white looking rock.

Ludders · Feb 18, 2018

I have used bleach before, seems to do the trick. I have some just soaking in RO water at the moment actually and hope it to be ready to add to my tank next weekend all being well.

mort · Feb 18, 2018

BRS did a video on this where they investigated several methods. They found bleach was the best of the safer methods. Acid did come top but I agree with their conclusion that the extra risk isn't worth the risk.

Kentech5 · Feb 18, 2018

I just soaked some live rock in water with some vinegar and a pump. That water turned a nasty brown for sure. It’s soaking in RODI water now and I’m going to have to change that out soon as it’s pretty nasty too.

cracker · Feb 18, 2018

Consider not killing it . The rock has a lot of good Benny's in it. Why bleach it to white rock? Consider putting it in a barrel close the lid for darkness. Ya gotta change the water regular though & it takes a long time. Starting with cycled live rock will speed up the time for a nice stable tank. Just something to think about.

40B Knasty · Feb 18, 2018

Agreed with cracker. Lid and powerheads blasting it for a week. Change water. Rinse and repeat for 3 more weeks. They call it "cooking" live rock.

mfinn · Feb 18, 2018

Bow4it said:
I got a hold of 100 lbs of live rock for my new 75 gallon set up. I want to kill it and start new with it and wondering which is the best method to do so. Bleach, acid or other. I and leaning towards bleach because I would like to start off with new white looking rock.

When I use bleach I usually use 3-4 cups per 5 gallons of tap water.
Leave it in for at least 24 hours. I've left some in bleach water for up to a week.
Drain and rinse. Then do a strong dechlorinator solution soak for 24-48 hours. Drain and let air dry for a couple days.

Kamden Uelton · Feb 18, 2018

I'm not sure I understand what your saying "Killing Live Rock" whats the point of paying $5.75 per pound of live rock if you are just going to kill it? I think bleach will work though.