How does everybody clean their water storage containers for auto top off?

[sean48183]

I am using just a 32 gallon trash can for water storage for auto top off and it gets funky after a couple weeks. I have been just using bleach to clean it every couple weeks but was wondering if this is the way everyone else does it.

 

[coastie81]

I use vinager (or however you spell it). I also use a sponge that is only used for the purpose of cleaning out my trash cans and scrub them once a month. I personally would not use bleach, it could possibility contaminate your tank. Just my .02

 

[sean48183]

Thank you. Are just using a trash can? Does yours get a funky smell after a couple weeks also.

 

[meowzer]

I use a 13g Kitchen trash can for my top off.....as of now I use 2-4g's a day for all my tanks, I have no funky stuff or funky smell in this can whatsoever....
Maybe you have too much water sitting in it...

 

[sean48183]

That could be but I was wondering if maybe the can is leaching into the water something. Since it is just a regular trash can and not food or water storage safe.

 

[meowzer]

Originally Posted by sean48183
http:///forum/post/3044398
That could be but I was wondering if maybe the can is leaching into the water something. Since it is just a regular trash can and not food or water storage safe.
Isn't it plastic? I use a 32g trash can for my w/c's.....but that's all

 

[coastie81]

is it plastic? hopefully so. Mine doesn't smell but I keep a lid on mine with a heater and a powerhead to keep the water moving.

 

[flower]

Originally Posted by coastie81
http:///forum/post/3044409
is it plastic? hopefully so. Mine doesn't smell but I keep a lid on mine with a heater and a powerhead to keep the water moving.
+1
However I do have a slight "sour" smell in the plastic can that I use for water changes. So I make sure to dry it real good before I put the lid on for storage.
What kind of odor do you smell? I don't have an odor, but I noticed the tube feels a little slimy on the outside.
I would not use bleach. I don't think you would need cleaner at all. Just a clean rag to wipe it down and let it dry. Perhaps if you just left the lid off.
I am willing to bet the smell is from the lid, water accumulates and drops back down into the tub so it doesn't evaporate; the air tight lid is causing souring a bit.

 

[sean48183]

It is a mildew smell. Could be from the lid. The reason I leave it on is to keep the kids from messing around in it. I think I will try leaving it off and see what happens. Bleach is ok to use. It dries to NaCl or table salt. I also add some declorinator to the water after I do it just to be sure. Nothing kills mildew like bleach.