I just bought some Carib-Sea African Cichlid Mix, Sahara Sand. Do I need to rinse this before I put it in the tank and if I do how would I rinse it without it spilling through a strainer or colander?
I've learned its a good idea to rinse anything, especially any type of aquarium substrate. As far as mixing it, how many pounds of sand are we talking about here? If its a small amount say under 20lbs just pour some of it into a 5gal bucket, use whatever method to get water into the bucket and use your hand to mix it around. Empty dirty water, repeat, and repeat a bunch more until the water is as clear as you can get it or want it. If we are talking about a lot more sand(in my case about 60lbs of sand), I used a big rubbermaid tub, took it outside and ran the hose into it while moving the sand around.