Cleaning/re-using substrate

I just purchased the Red Sea Max 130D that was advertised here. It came as an entire set-up - including live rock and live sand. I've got the live rock in a tupperware container with a maxi-jet in it for circulation. The sand is in a bucket covered by 3-4 inches of saltwater. How should I go about preparing this to put back in the cube????? How long before the bacteria in the sand will die off? Should I rinse it with salt water??? Should I rinse it with R/O water?? Suggestions????

 

I would almost suggest just getting new sand. Between die off if any, and surviving unwanted critters which are bound the be there new sand seems like it would be safer and quicker in the short term.

 

+1

 

Agreed, alot of sources say rinse it with RO water and it will be fine, but experiences of moving old sand causing spikes in water levels and hitch hikers has made me decide to cut my losses and purchase new in the future. If it bothers you to toss it, throw it in your sump!

 

+1 for new sand....I have some that is new, rinsed and ready to add to that new tank. (Let me know) Just use some from your other tank(s) to seed. Not only will there be no unwanted hitchikers but no trates or phates to fuel algae! /DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default//emoticons/smile.gif

 

I have never had a problem reusing old sand. just rinse it real good