28/07/2026
1. Inspect the wood
* Use only aquarium-safe hardwoods.
* Remove loose bark, soft or rotten sections.
* Check for mold, insects, or fungal growth.
2. Scrub thoroughly
* Use a stiff brush and clean running water.
* Don’t use soap, detergent, bleach, or chemical cleaners.
3. Boil the driftwood (best method)
* Boil for 1-2 hours if it fits in a pot.
* For very large pieces, boil one end, then rotate and boil the other.
* This:
* Sterilizes the wood.
* Speeds up tannin removal.
* Helps the wood become waterlogged.
4. Soak in clean water
* Place the wood in a bucket or tub filled with dechlorinated water.
* Keep it completely submerged using a rock or weight if needed.
* Change the water every 2-3 days.
* Continue soaking until:
* The water stays mostly clear.
* The wood sinks on its own.
Typical soaking time:
* Small pieces: 1-2 weeks
* Medium pieces: 2-4 weeks
* Large dense pieces: 4-8 weeks or longer
5. Test before adding
If the wood:
* Sinks naturally ✅
* Has no foul smell ✅
* Doesn’t make the soaking water very dark within 24 hours ✅
it’s ready for the aquarium.
If you cannot boil large driftwood
* Pour boiling water over the wood several times.
* Then soak it in a large tub with regular water changes.
* Leave it in direct sunlight for a few hours after cleaning if possible (this helps dry the surface but is not a substitute for soaking).
White fungus after placing in the aquarium
Don’t panic if you see a white, jelly-like fungus in the first few weeks.
* It’s harmless and common on new driftwood.
* Remove it manually during maintenance.
* Shrimp, snails, and many plecos will often eat it.
* It usually disappears on its own within 2-6 weeks.
For sensitive fish like Channa, Discus, and Stingrays
* Cure the wood until tannin release is minimal.
* Monitor pH during the first week after adding the wood.
* Ensure good filtration and water circulation.
* If the water becomes tea-colored but your fish tolerate it, it’s generally harmless. If you want crystal-clear water, use activated carbon or Purigen after the wood has been cured.
