Are these products safe?

[gloriousspandex]

I just wanted to check and see if these are okay to use with my Axolotl for future reference! Better safe than sorry, right? : )
Walmart.com: Jungle: Start Right Complete Water Conditioner, 2 Oz: Fish
"Start right makes tap water safe for fish immediately by removing chlorine, chloramine And heavy metals. Start right contains aloe vera, a soothing, natural protectant that aids in replacing the natural mucous slime coating on the skin And fins Of the fish, helps prevent the loss Of internal fluids And electrolytes through the skin And promotes the healing Of wounds And infections. Use start right when setting up a new aquarium, making regular water changes, adding fish And when fish are injured From fighting, netting or DISEASE. Maintenance. Fish care made EASY!
NATURAL aloe vera protects FISH.
REMOVES chlorine & chloramine."


Walmart.com: Jungle: Ammonia Clear Tank Buddies, 39 G: Fish
"Tank buddies fast dissolving, premeasured tablets make caring for your aquarium faster, easier and convenient. Simply drop the tank buddies tablet into your aquarium water--the fizzing action assures you the ingredients are working immediately! Removes ammonia fast"

 

[iChris]

I am new to keeping axolotls myself, but having kept tropical fish for many years, I assume it should be safe for axolotls.

as for the second product, regular water changes and a mature filter and a tank that is not over-crowded should let you have a environment that can survive very easily without any extra help to absorb ammonia.

 

[dragonlady]

Hi there, Cady!

Personally, I am not fond of either product - just a preference. I tend to stray away from anything that contains aloe vera as I have had bad experiences where this stuff has coated everything in my tank and has proven quite difficult to remove. The second product should not be needed as stated above. In addition, I would just like to add that regular housekeeping (vacuuming or turkey baster) to remove leftovers and wastes will definitely help as well.

I usually recommend Aquasafe, Prime, or AmQuel+. The latter products will neutralize the ammonia but you will still get an ammonia reading. The benefits of this would be if you are cycling your tank, they would not be interfering with your cycle or if not, this would protect the inhabitants while you deal with the source of the ammonia.

iChris, just a note, as I also kept fish for many years. With keeping caudates, it's never a good idea to assume a product that is safe for fish is also safe for caudates. If you aren't sure or unfamiliar, it is always a good idea to ask first. Not saying these two products are not safe, just better to be cautious.