Playground sand

[DerekFF]

Well ive posted this question in 2 other places and havnt got an answer yet, i was wondering if I can use playground sand for my tank? Dunno why I wouldnt be able to, but just wanted to make sure.

[Jennie]

I have tried it, yes it works, but it sucks up in drain hose too easy. It's now in my pond and works well there, lol:)

[DerekFF]

Is the sand with silicate in it heavier? And the silicate in the sand is ok for the fish? I know its bad for humans, but i just wanna make sure i got this straight before i buy some.

[morillonj]

silica sand is a inert type of sand, so it wont fluctuate your ph or other water parameters. i think its safer then playground sand or the other stuff at hardware stores. If you have a leslies pool supply i would get there 50lb white silica sand. heres the link.. http://www.lesliespool.com/browse/Home/Filters-Filter-Supplies/Filter-Supplies/Silica-Sand-Only-sold-in-the-CA-stores/D/30100/P/1:100:6000:600030/I/14700

[aalbina]

I use quickcrete play sand from home depot. Al suggested it to me. I suck up a little bit with the siphon but at 5.00 for 50 lbs - who cares.

[morillonj]

oh and yes its heavier and a lot easier to clean, so you wont loose hardly any when syphoning.

[fishorama]

I tried play sand, from walmart I think. I didn't like it as well a pool filter sand except for the tan color. It was very dirty & the grains were not consistant, I'm not sure it was 100% silica either, more like river sand. The finer grains tend to compact tighter than pool sand.