How to wash filter socks?

nikonosis · 07/08/2007, 12:34 PM

How does everyone wash their filter socks?

cowboyswife · 07/08/2007, 12:41 PM

Using a washing machine works, but it reduces the life of the sock. I clean mine with the hose, and rinse it with ro/di like 3 times, and let it air dry.

nikonosis · 07/08/2007, 12:44 PM

I read this on wetwebmedia.com

Quote:

Hi all,
I was curious if I could use a washing machine with bleach to clean my filter sock? It is the felt kind that is used at the drain line in the sump to catch detritus and bubbles. I currently use a hose to spray it off but, would love to take the lazy way out and just drop it in the washing machine with bleach. Is there any reason why I shouldn't do that?
Thanks,
Ryan

Quote:

I would NOT do this... too much chance of residual detergent making its way back into your system. I do know of folks in the trade who use a dedicated washing machine to wash their many sponge filters... but never use soaps/saponifiers in these machines. Bob Fenner

Whisperer · 07/08/2007, 01:06 PM

I did wash my filter socks using washing soda. No bleach nor detergent. Baking soda should also work as well.

aquarius77 · 07/08/2007, 01:08 PM

I wash them in straight bleach with no soap in my wash machine.

nikonosis · 07/08/2007, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by aquarius77
I wash them in straight bleach with no soap in my wash machine.

don't you worry about soap build up in the washing machine getting on them?

kuoka · 07/08/2007, 01:19 PM

The residual soap build up scares me as it makes sense. I've been dropping mine in the washer with just water. Been doing it for a long time and so far no ill effects (knocking on wood here).

CeeGee · 07/08/2007, 01:20 PM

I throw mine in the wash using hot water with nothing else. I do this twice then throw them in the dryer for a few.

Haven't seen any ill effects from soap residue.

kuoka · 07/08/2007, 01:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by CeeGee
I throw mine in the wash using hot water with nothing else. I do this twice then throw them in the dryer for a few.

Haven't seen any ill effects from soap residue.

Good idea CG, I'm switching to hot water as it would be more effective in ridding any residuals.

cwegescheide · 07/08/2007, 01:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by aquarius77
I wash them in straight bleach with no soap in my wash machine.

Ditto

07/08/2007, 12:34 PM	#1
nikonosis Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2005 Posts: 1,935	How to wash filter socks? How does everyone wash their filter socks? __________________ Home is where you hang your @ 75g rimless starfire 30x24x24, Bubble Magus NAC6, 2x Vortech MP10's and 1 MP40, MaxSpect G2-160 LED, Neptune Systems AquaController Apex/w wxm module, Eheim Compact+ 3000 Pump, Aqua UV Sterilizer, BRS GFO/Carbon reactor, Marine Magic doser, Aquahub DIY Top-it-Off Kit and Aqua Lifter Vacuum Pump

07/08/2007, 12:41 PM	#2
cowboyswife Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: Deltona FL Posts: 2,187	Using a washing machine works, but it reduces the life of the sock. I clean mine with the hose, and rinse it with ro/di like 3 times, and let it air dry. __________________ "The voice of the sea speaks to the soul." - Kate Chopin ~Becca Current Tank Info: Out of the hobby for the time being. But Im sticking around anyway!

07/08/2007, 01:06 PM	#4
Whisperer Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Punta Gorda, FL Posts: 4,020	I did wash my filter socks using washing soda. No bleach nor detergent. Baking soda should also work as well. __________________ The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten. --------- No one is born with intellect and age guarantees wisdom to no one. Current Tank Info: 120G reef, 30G sump, 10G QT tank

07/08/2007, 01:19 PM	#7
kuoka Premium Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: NorCal Cali Posts: 713	The residual soap build up scares me as it makes sense. I've been dropping mine in the washer with just water. Been doing it for a long time and so far no ill effects (knocking on wood here). __________________ They say don't talk about someone unless you've walked a mile in their shoes.. But if you do, at least you'll be ahead of them AND have their shoes! :) Current Tank Info: 72gal glass bow front reef, mostly LPS with some SPS, tangs, anthias, blenny, paired percula clowns, gold headed sleeper goby, red fairy wrasse

07/08/2007, 01:20 PM	#8
CeeGee Registered Member Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: TN Posts: 3,272	I throw mine in the wash using hot water with nothing else. I do this twice then throw them in the dryer for a few. Haven't seen any ill effects from soap residue. __________________ My algae WAS special. Current Tank Info: 75 gallon display, 40 gallon breeder sump, RLSS R6i, ATI Powermodule, Apex, Ecotech MP40's

07/08/2007, 01:08 PM	#5
aquarius77 Moved On Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Highland, Il Posts: 2,198	I wash them in straight bleach with no soap in my wash machine.