Sterilizing Stuff

[Crowfingers]

I just got a few really cool hides, fake bamboo-root climbing decor, and water dishes donated from someone who had several species of reptile and I'd like to know what the bet method of sterilizing it all would be. All of it is either the fake sandstone hides, or the 'fish tank/terrarium plastic' decor, even the water dishes. I want to use some of it for my ball, but I don't know the health/history of the previous reptiles. So...
1. is soaking for 5-10 min in boiling water sufficient to kill mite and pathogens
or
2. would soaking in dilute bleach be better then rinsing like mad be better
thanks in advance

[bcr229]

I wouldn't use bleach on anything that has pores, plus it doesn't kill cryptosporidium which is a concern if the equipment was ever used for lizards.

Ammonia would work, but again, I wouldn't use it on anything porous.

Boiling would do it, if you don't think it would damage the equipment. I usually run plastic décor, hides, and water bowls, and "stone" décor through the dishwasher.

[Kokorobosoi]

I second the dishwasher.

[Ufoo9k]

If you do not have a dishwater, would simple hot water and dish soap be enough?