Using regular sponges for sponge filter?

I'm looking into making my own sponge filter, could I use regular sponges that you could get anywhere (without the scour pad) to make the filter?

 

You can, but some can be too dense to have adequate water flow.

 

I'll try to attach a picture when I get home from work, it will be late though

 

I would think that would hinder flow. You can get filter sponge/floss online for pretty cheap. I also believe all/most of the dish sponges say not for use in aquariums. Not sure why. I was looking for some to clean with a while back and noticed that on the packages.

 

A lot of sponges have an antI mould additive and that is harmful to fish, for cheap sponges look for pond filter sponges they are huge and can be cut to size normally the cheapest way to buy, also filter floss pre sponge is a great way to keep the water clearer but will require replacement as apposed to cleaning. Good luck

 

I would think that would hinder flow. You can get filter sponge/floss online for pretty cheap. I also believe all/most of the dish sponges say not for use in aquariums. Not sure why. I was looking for some to clean with a while back and noticed that on the packages.

It's mostly due to being made of cellulose, which breaks down in water, or an antI fungal/bacterial/microbial additive that harm the ecosystem.

It's something I looked into for scotch brite as well for a cheap coarse media, but even though it's devoid of those above, it contains small particles that the inhabitants may eat.

I purchased sponge media for the API Filstar for around $4 at my LFS and there's plenty there, albeit in 3/4" sheets

 

Thanks guys I'll try to pick some of that stuff up then