Best Way To Completely Revamp Tank?

[xweeqtx]

After searching and searching I finally came across black sand in a shop for a decent price today. So probably end of the month, I'll be changing over from regular play sand to this.

But, I need to know the best way of doing this. Obviously everything needs to come out - but apart from numerous buckets of water - whats the best way to save majority of the tank water during the change? and get all the sand out of there. Really wanting to give the tank a proper clean on the inside if it's possible.

So, ideas?

 

[bagu]

put all the water in the bath? or buy a big water barrell?

but you could just save half and add 50% declor

 

[rdd1952]

Definitely don't put it in the bath. Soap scum would basically make it useless. You really only need to save about half of it which equates to a 50% water change. Buckets will work or you can probably go to a home improvement store and get a larger container. I bought a 16 gallon one a while back when I did my 29 gallon. Can't remember what I paid for it but wasn't expensive. You can always use it for other purposes (such as a heavy duty laundry basket and it's great for soaking driftwood) after you're finished.