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Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 12:29 pm
by oceanria
Spilled a bunch of Seachem Prime on my floor and the smell is brutal. Any tips to get rid of it fast? I've tried vinegar and water but it's still lingering. Tank's a 55 gallon with sand substrate, running a Fluval 407, stocked with Angelfish and Tetras.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 12:55 pm
by theFoss
Seachem Prime contains sodium dithionite, which breaks down into sulfur compounds. That's why the odor is so strong. Open windows for ventilation and use baking soda paste on the spill area. Let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping. Avoid mixing with other chemicals.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 1:28 pm
by berrymunch
theFoss wrote: ↑Sun Jun 01, 2025 12:55 pm
Seachem Prime contains sodium dithionite, which breaks down into sulfur compounds. That's why the odor is so strong. Open windows for ventilation and use baking soda paste on the spill area. Let it sit for 30 minutes before wiping. Avoid mixing with other chemicals.
Yep, baking soda works wonders. I'd also recommend running an air purifier if you have one. Had a similar issue last year with my 75 gallon planted tank. The smell stuck around for days until I tried the baking soda trick.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 1:53 pm
by flamea
What's Seachem Prime? Never used it. I just do water changes with tap conditioner.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 2:10 pm
by voyager
Seachem Prime is a water conditioner that detoxifies ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. It's concentrated, so spills are potent. For odor, activated charcoal can help absorb the smell. Place some near the spill or in a mesh bag. My 40 breeder had a close call last month, but charcoal saved the day.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 2:47 pm
by velocity
voyager wrote: ↑Sun Jun 01, 2025 2:10 pm
Seachem Prime is a water conditioner that detoxifies ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. It's concentrated, so spills are potent. For odor, activated charcoal can help absorb the smell. Place some near the spill or in a mesh bag. My 40 breeder had a close call last month, but charcoal saved the day.
That's a solid idea. I've used charcoal for tank issues but never thought to use it for spills. How long did it take to clear the smell for you?
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 3:00 pm
by swimmer2
I just mopped with hot water and it went away. Maybe my nose isn't as sensitive.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 3:55 pm
by oceanria
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Gonna try the baking soda and charcoal combo. Appreciate the help!
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 4:20 pm
by seafrog
I spilled some once. Smell was gone in a day. Didn't do anything special.
Re: Cleaning up Seachem Prime spill odor
Posted: Sun Jun 01, 2025 4:54 pm
by berrymunch
swimmer2 wrote: ↑Sun Jun 01, 2025 3:00 pm
I just mopped with hot water and it went away. Maybe my nose isn't as sensitive.
Lucky you. My spouse was ready to kick me out of the house over the stink. Had to act fast with the baking soda.