Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was wondering if anybody could inform me on how to properly heat treat and/or sanitize cage decor. I have a few rocks that I want to put in my desert ig cage but I do not want to do so without making sure they are parasite free first. If anybody can let me know how this process is done(I don't know the first thing) then your help is greatly appreciated.

I know the subject sounds broad. But I figured I would open this post up for any responses on the matter of heat treatment/sanitizing.

Thank you
-Matt

Bleech has been used for years, just rinse it afterwords (a lot)and sit it in direct sunlight.

However with Rocks you could just bake them!
-----
Jeremy

"I am become death, the destroyer of worlds" July 16, 1945 Robert Oppenheimer

1.1 Double Het "Sharp" Snow RTB's
1.1 Hypomelenistic RTB's
0.2 Pastel Hypo RTB's
1.0 Double Het Stripe Albino RTB's
0.1 Suriname RTB
0.1 Anerthrystic RTB
3.6.4 Red Bearded Dragons
1.1 Rhinoceros Iguana's
1.0 Green Iguana
1.0 Ball Python
1.1 Cream Golden Retrieviers
1.0 Pomeriaian
0.3 Catus Terribilis
0.1 Spouse
1.0 Child

One thing I've used for fish and lizards is just to wash the rocks with dishsoap, rinse really well, then boil them for about 25 minutes. The boiling is a great way to get rid of any parasites, and it also helps to get out any extra dirt. I personally have never had any problems.

awesome! thank you both for the helpful replies!

-Matt

For rocks soaking in bleach and water or boiling should be fine. Most rocks wont absorb anything, unless they are poreous.

Wood is a bit tougher. It can absorb contaminants (sp) and creatures can borrow in it. Especially this time of year, when insects may have laid eggs before winter inside and are there waiting to hatch.

I've never had any problems with just a soak in some soapy water and a thorough rinse. You could put them in your dishwasher too.