<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6939390#post6939390 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Sk8r
Test kits appropriate to your type of tank. Plus additives as needed. Every tank has its peculiar needs. And a good place to do your tests: the test chemicals stain.
A suggestion: Two thermometers, one a cheap, low-tech strip, in case the digital goes bad: put them in different places in the system.
2 5 gal buckets.
Toweling that hasn't been washed in perfumed detergent: for spills.
A 3/4 inch siphon hose.
Floating magnetic scraper (if you drop it, it will float to the top: trust me in this.)
A refractometer is the nicest salinity monitor, but they're pricey. Whatever you use, test it in ro/di water and be sure you know how it's reading.
A dedicated cup for dipping.
Anything that you're going to use around that tank should not be subjected to dyes, perfumes, fabric softeners, or other agents, and shouldn't be cooked in or used for other purposes.
Hope that helps.