Cage Cleaning

[mtolypetsupply]

Hi, all, I don't have a snake yet, but have some preparation questions.

A neighbor gave me a flatbacked hex tank that goes about 35 gal, I'd estimate. He used it for fish many years ago, then it sat in his attic for some years.

What should I use to clean this for a "pre-occupancy" cleaning? Should I do anything differently because it was used for fish? I don't know if his fish had or carried any diseases, but I'd like to protect my new snake (don't have one yet, so have plenty of time to prep his enclosure) from any diseases etc.

What about regular cleanings once I have a resident in the tank? Any products better than others?

Thanks for your help!
:)
Stephi

[Snake lover 3-25]

i use wipe-out 1 it works great... it is kind of like windex but it is safe for reptiles:D

[infernalis]

We wash out used tanks all the time, Bleach works great, just rinse it really good.

Always buy the Vinigar window cleaner, Ammonia leaves vapors!

Hex tanks are so cool!!!!

[mtolypetsupply]

Thanks! I was thinking bleach, but didn't know if it would have adverse affects, and plain vinegar sound great for regular cleanings.

I'm looking for an appropriate cover, but haven't found one yet. However, I'm pretty handy, can anyone tell me how to make one that fits well and locks in?

[infernalis]

Stand the tank on a piece of plywood or press-board that is just slightly larger than the tank, trace around the tank with a pencil or sharpie marker.

After you remove the tank from the wood you should have a perfect pattern, now measure the "lip" on the top of the tank, usually around a quarter inch to one third inch, and take the ruler, measure and mark new lines INSIDE the first set, and follow the new lines with a saw.

Now you have a hex lid that fits snug inside the top of the tank, with wood you can drill vent holes and mount lights to it:D

[mtolypetsupply]

Great innovation wayne! I've been poking around on the internet, and saw some velcro lids. I can see where that could be a safer application than nails or staples if I wanted to insert some screen panels into the lid. Any opinions on velcro? What about glues for cage construction?
:)