Can I use play sand?

[rich_one]

If so, is there anything I need to specifically look for on the package? I found some for very cheap at my local hardware store.

Thanks!

-Rich

[RudeDogg1]

Yes you can I dont know about the types in the us but over here argo playsand is one of the best. You need to rinse it before you use it tho

[Yboat]

Reefers use it in this part of the country, but it really depends on where it was collected.

[rich_one]

well, I am using a very thin layer in my discus tank anyway... so unless someone screams an objection before I get it in there, I'll go with it. Thanks!

-Rich

[gsteve]

i did... worked great

[Gordon C. Snelling]

The only real concern I have had with the various play sands in making sure you dont get one that is too fine.

[waj8]

I would test it first. If it contains calcite or dolomite it will harden the water to some degree. Play sand is cheap and heavy so it likely comes from not too far away. Pool filter sand won't harden the water as it's usually silica.

[inmisawa]

I found some pool filter sand by looking up Leslie's Swimming Pool Suppy. The site listed three places within 10 miles of me. It's pretty cheap still ($12.00 for a 50lbs bag) and a lot of people from this site recommend it.

[dr6run]

silica sand from a big box (home depot, menards) cheap, looks great, and inert. love the stuff
last time I bought some I think it was $5-6 per 50lb bag.

can also be called blasting sand just make sure its "silica". the black blasting sand is no good!!! very sharp!!!