(Written like a real hobbyist sharing practical tips, not a technical manual)
Adding driftwood to an aquarium can completely transform the look of your tank. It brings a natural feeling, gives fish places to hide, and releases tannins that help create a more comfortable environment for many species. But before you drop any piece of wood into your aquarium, you need to prepare it properly. Raw driftwood can carry dirt, fungus, bugs, and tannins that might cloud your water.
The good news is that preparing driftwood is simple. It just takes a little time and patience. Here’s a clear, natural guide to preparing driftwood safely using boiling, soaking, and basic cleaning.
Start by Rinsing and Scrubbing the Wood
Before anything else, give your driftwood a good rinse. Hold it under running water and use a clean brush to scrub off mud, loose bark, or soft bits. You don’t need soap at all — just water and elbow grease.
If the wood still feels dusty or flaky, keep brushing until the surface feels solid and clean.
Check the Wood for Soft Spots
Some driftwood looks beautiful but has rotten areas. These soft areas will break down fast once underwater and create a mess in the tank.
Gently press your fingernail into different parts of the wood. If it sinks in easily, that part is rotten and should be cut off. Only use firm, solid pieces for your aquarium.
Boiling the Driftwood (Fastest and Safest Method)
If your driftwood fits in a pot, boiling is the best way to prepare it. Boiling helps:
• Kill any bacteria, fungus, or parasites
• Remove dirt from deep cracks
• Release tannins faster
• Help the wood sink properly
All you need to do is:
Place the driftwood in a large pot.
Fill it with enough water to cover the wood.
Boil for at least 1–2 hours, longer if the wood is thick.
Replace the water halfway through if it turns dark.
When you boil driftwood, the water will almost always turn brown — that’s normal. It’s just tannins coming out.
If the wood is too large for a pot, move to the soaking method.
Soaking the Driftwood (For Large Pieces)
If your driftwood is big or oddly shaped, soaking is the easiest option.
Find a bucket or tub, fill it with warm water and place the wood inside. You can put something heavy on top if it floats. Soaking takes longer, but it works well.
During soaking:
• Change the water every few days
• Expect brown water (tannins)
• Soak until the wood stops floating
Depending on the piece, soaking can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. The longer you soak, the fewer tannins will leak into your aquarium later.
Some aquarists actually like the natural tea-coloured water that tannins create, especially for blackwater fish. But if you prefer crystal-clear water, let the driftwood soak longer.
Dealing With Stubborn Tannins
Some woods, especially Malaysian driftwood and Mopani, release tannins for a long time. Even after boiling or soaking, your tank may still turn slightly brown.
This doesn’t harm fish at all — tannins are natural and can even reduce stress. But if you want clear water:
• Add activated carbon to your filter
• Use Purigen or similar water-polishing media
• Keep up with weekly water changes
Your water will clear gradually.
What If Mold or Fungus Appears?
It’s common for driftwood to grow a white, slimy biofilm during the first few weeks. This is harmless and disappears on its own. Shrimp and snails love eating it.
If thick fuzz appears during soaking, just scrub it off and keep soaking. Once the wood settles in the tank, it usually stops appearing.
Make Sure the Wood Is Fully Waterlogged
The final step is making sure your driftwood actually sinks. Fully waterlogged wood stays at the bottom without extra weights. If it still floats after boiling or soaking, just give it more time.
You can also wedge it between rocks or bury part of it in the substrate until it becomes heavy enough on its own.