Re-Mixing Salt Mixes?

[SirFragalot]

After doing some research on different salt mixes, I have noticed that there are a lot of different reviews both good and bad for the same mixes. Most of the bad being inconsistentcies between batches, buckets or what not. One bucket would have high Ca (example) while another of the same brand had low. This might be a stupid question but does anyone re-mix their salt mix before making water? Is it possible that some elements settle towards the bottom of the box, bucket or bag during shipping/handeling?

In my searches, I also came across these comparison charts that I would like to share (if they have not already).

http://www.aquariumwatertesting.com/AWT_Salt_Analysis_0208.pdf

 

[duijver]

A lot of articles and forum postings I have read all point to mixing each and every time you mix salt. If you have a bucket they recommend rolling it on the ground for about 5 minutes when you first buy it. Although, with only minimal room to mix around I'm not sure how well this theory pans out?

I used to mix my salt all the time, but the last batch of salt I bought was in a plastic bag within the bucket. To make things worse, the bucket did NOT have a secure lid, but my hope is that the more expensive salt is better at dealing with these issues. Who knows.

I've also considered dumping 1/2 of the bucket into another bucket and missing them separately.. but then I figured If everything went to the bottom it would only help a little bit.

 

[SirFragalot]

I use IO salt but have been playing with the idea of upgrading to something else like Seachem Reef or Reef Crystals since I am getting further into corals. I can see the logic (at least I hope) in mixing the dry mix before making water. The other day, I attempted to do it by hand since I had a half a bucket left of IO and felt a bag at the bottom. I pulled it out from underneath the salt and it turned out to be a free Instant Ocean towel in a bag. ;D No where on the bucket did it say anything about a free towel nor did any of the other buckets that I used have them. Made me think I got shafted on some salt mix though.

 

[Dave]

I always assumed the elements were infused in the salt, making mixing a moot point.

Is this not the case?

 

[Nickjr000]

Certain elements do settle to the bottom or rise to the top. Take the bag out and mix it around on the floor. Then pour it into the bucket and mix it a little more. Saran wrap or use a piece of the bag to cover the bucket then put the lid back on. I seen plenty of tests done mixing and not mixing the salt and the numbers are always different and sometimes a bit crazy when you don't mix