LIONHEAD

I use Matrix in my Magnum 350, an I reuse it. My question, what is the best way of cleaning it for reuse. Now I just rinse it several times. If it's real dirty, I soke it a pan of water with a tablespoon of bleach for 24 hours, an rinse it at least 6 times befor it is reused.. I have several pounds of it, an I let it dry out in between uses...Any info would be outstanding......Thanks.....

Seachem

Thanks for the post. Matrix is an all natural porous media that never has to be replaced. However, from time to time, it may need rinsing, as it will accumulate a sludge on the outside. Simply take it out and gently rinse it under tap water removing any residual sludge that may exist. The great thing about Matrix is that it has the internal surface area that will retain bacteria even when rinsed. It is not necessary or recommended to rinse the media in bleach, as this will kill any bacteria that may have colonized the Matrix. Water will do the job just fine. If you do decide to use bleach, which again, we do not recommend, please soak the media in a dechlorinator, such as Prime, for several hours before use. We hope this helps and please let us know if you need any further assistance. Have a great day!

LIONHEAD

Thank you, I will no longer bleach. This a great product, an it has saved me a ton of money over the years, by not having to buy charcoal. It's all I use on my Discus tanks....

Seachem

Thank you so much for your nice words! We are glad to hear that you are satisfied!

Mcjudge

I would like to second that! I just started using it and I can already see improvements over active carbon. The granule size is perfect and does not fall through the cartridge I use. I was wondering about the long term use and the maintenance and this post wrapped it up for me. Thanks again Seachem I like all of your products.

Seachem

Thank you both so much!! Great to hear all the positive feedback!

FJP

Is it okay to rinse under normal tap water that may contain chlorine or chloramine. I thought that these chemicals supposedly destroy the beneficial bacteria that colonises filter media, such as Matrix.

If I rinse my Matrix media (cycled) under tap water, will I still retain the beneficial bacteria? Should I rinse the Matrix again after this with de-chlorinated water ?

Thanks.

Regards, Fraser.

Seachem

It is best to rinse Matrix in tank water or de-chlorinated water. However, I rinse my Matrix in tap water from time to time and have never encountered any issues. Some beneficial bacteria may be killed off when rinsing it in tap water (ultimately, you will lose some bacteria when rinsing in any water, tank or tap); it is always a great idea to add some Stability (our bacterial supplement) whenever you rinse your Matrix to replace any beneficial bacteria that was removed or killed off.