Disinfecting question

[digcolnagos]

I'm just getting started with a six-year-old ball I'm picking up tomorrow. I've watched it feed and read everything I can find about care. I'm putting it a 55-gallon aquarium--on the large side, I realize--with UTH on one side and a lamp if needed. My immediate concern is what to do with the driftwood branches that are coming with this tank, which was previously home to a bearded dragon. I'm thoroughly washing the tank out with a bleach solution and an equally thorough rinsing, but I don't think bleach would be good for the wood, which is aesthetically pleasing even if the snake never climbs on it. I've read that I can bake the wood in the oven at 200 for a couple hours to get rid of any contaminants. Will this work? What about putting the wood stuff in boiling water for a few minutes? Other thoughts, experiences? I don't want my snake to get sick from something left behind by the lizard, which last inhabitated the tank about three months ago. Thanks.

[tigerlily]

I wouldn't use bleach on wood either. Many people bake their wood bedding and branches. I believe they do it at 175 - 200, and closely monitor it. You don't want to scorch anything or burn your house down. I'd try it for an hour if possible.

[fishmommy]

this is a great question!

it also reminds me to ask: what sort of cleaning products DO you use on the snake's cage and other items?

[tigerlily]

I use chlorhexadine. It's great, and very safe for animals.

[Regal Boids]

Where do you get chlorhexadine from?

[Aric]

Where do you get chlorhexadine from?

Reptile Basics has it.

[SatanicIntention]

Go herruh! Gallon of chlorhexidine concentrate for $12.95, plus about $7-8 for shipping since it weighs 8lbs, but still. It's an awesome price and I have personally ordered from them. Very fast shipping and good packaging.

http://www.valleyvet.com/ct_detail.h...2-00b0d0204ae5