how to clean a second hand wooden viv

[bolt]

Hi all iv got a second hand viv for my ball its wooden and was used to house lizzards in before would it be ok for my ball? Whats the best way to clean it out so its safe for my snake

[Lankyrob]

I would give it a damn good scrubbing with bleach and hot water, then another with just hot water and then another with just hot water just to be sure all the bleach is gone :)

[Gungirl]

I depending on the viv I would sand it down and refinish it myself that way I know what sealer was used.

[shaunyboy]

re using branches found out side.....

i fill my bath half full with cold water,i add bleach,then use a scrubbing to clean up the branches

i weigh down the branches,then fill the bath up,until they are completely submerged...

i leave them to soak for 12 to 24 hours

after soaking...

i drain the bath,then use the shower head,to rinse the branches,while i scrub them with the brush

i then fill the bath with only cold water,weigh the branches down and leave to soak for 24 hours

i then put the branches in the cupboard/closet,where my hot water tank is located,then leave them to dry out for a few weeks

re different method
i use a portable power washer,to jet wash branches clean,imo it also makes all the patterns/shapes in the bark stand out,the wood grain really shows out as well

i do the above for my own peace of mind...

also i like how you can ALTER,the tones,shadows,and overall look of the branch,the higher the pressure,the finer the water jet,the harder it hits the wood,leaving parts of the bark/grain,as light,or as dark,as you choose...

i like the effect power washing them has

cheers shaun