hand sanitizer

[cedar]

is it ok to use hand sanitizer when dealing with multiple tanks when feeding and cleaning?

[jmf3460]

yes, just don't get one that is scented. I use it but I try to let it dry completely before putting my hand in the water.

[DJW]

Most hand sanitizers are alcohol-based, which as mentioned is fine if you let it dry.

There is another kind that is "alcohol free" and contains an antimicrobial agent that sticks to your skin. I don't think you want that stuff in the fish tank.

[pitdogg2]

91% alcohol is cheaper and works as well, plus it dries very quick unlike some hand stuff i have used.

[DJW]

Between healthy tanks I just use soap and water, and sometimes I'm lax about it. If there is a disease anywhere (or QT) I use rubbing alcohol, which as pitdogg says is cheaper ...and more effective as its more concentrated.

[cedar]

thanks everyone, I have just set up my fish room with 5 breeding tanks and one grow out and I just medicated everyone because I have a smash and dasher last week that died so Im trying to be careful. :) I did get some white stringy poop from one pb but so far that is it. I did metroplex a few times and prazipro for a 3 days with no water change and light feed in between.

[cedar]

I should have clarified that the smash and dasher was in the display tank upstairs and I did 2 ,3 day runs of prazipro with a 90% water change in between as well as metroplex and all seem fine. I did the fish room as a precaution. nothing is shared up from down. :)

[warblad79]

Is it worth the risk from using it rather than washing your hands?

[cedar]

I thought it would be better? because of the alcohol....I am going to use straight rubbing alcohol. :)