Silica sand good alternative to gravel

We use #1 & 2 silica sand in our tanks...it's great for plants and it's natural has a natural color. To rinse it: we put it bucket and let the water run in it until the water isn't cloudy anymore..
We get silica sand from a place called Shaw Brick. It's cost us $10 Cnd for 40kg bag. If you have a place which sells silica sand you could use it instead. In case anyone is interested in cheap gravel alternative. ;D
Here's a site which can give you an idea of what I am talking about.

 

I also use sand in my tanks, and I would definitely have to recommend it. it makes cleaning/maintenance a breeze compared to gravel

 

How do you clean the sand?.Can't vacuum it. I've never used it and would like to try.

 

that's the best part!

you don't vacuum it! you can just put the suction input a little above the sand to pick up the nasties, but high enough to not pick up the sand. once I finish that, I just leave the suction in there until I have enough water removed.

hope that helped

 

We just put the sand in a bucket and let the water run in it until the water isn't cloudy anymore. We let it sit in our tub.