How do you clean your test tubes?

Cubbies

Cubbies

Active member
I was wondering how do people go about cleaning their test tubes. Yes I do use API. I know not everyone uses them. Please don't turn this into a "use this or those test are unreliable" thread. I know some people don't like them and think they are unreliable but unfortunately that's what I have. Either way I would like to know how you clean them. I usually just rinse out with the hot water but for some of the tests, it leaves an odor behind and even some color afterwards. Is there any other way? I was thinking letting them soke in a water/vinegar mix but I don't know if this would affect anything. Thanks in advance!
 
Cubbies said:
I was wondering how do people go about cleaning their test tubes. Yes I do use API. I know not everyone uses them. Please don't turn this into a "use this or those test are unreliable" thread. I know some people don't like them and think they are unreliable but unfortunately that's what I have. Either way I would like to know how you clean them. I usually just rinse out with the hot water but for some of the tests, it leaves an odor behind and even some color afterwards. Is there any other way? I was thinking letting them soke in a water/vinegar mix but I don't know if this would affect anything. Thanks in advance!
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I use API for basic stuff like PH, nitrates, and phosphates too. Rinse them well, even soak them in straight tap water after use and then dry them upside down on a paper towel. Sometimes I still feel like there may be contamination remaining in the tubes which may affect the next test results.
 
jcarlilesiu said:
I use API for basic stuff like PH, nitrates, and phosphates too. Rinse them well, even soak them in straight tap water after use and then dry them upside down on a paper towel. Sometimes I still feel like there may be contamination remaining in the tubes which may affect the next test results.
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Yea that's how I feel. I feel like maybe my next test is inacurate due to it. Has anyone tried a water/vinegar solution maybe?
 
I rinse them too under regular tap water. I'm with you Jake I feel like there might be some left over contaminations resulting in some bad results.
 
I rinse them out with tap water and let them air dry after each use. I rinse them again with aquarium water before I use them to test chemistry.
 
Back when i used api calcium, it would have white buildup in the tube. I just used a wire brush and water. Cleaned it instantly. Never had discoloration. I always cleaned mine out with tap water right after use.
 
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