How often to change water if not using a filter?

crystalmice

Hi,
I havnt kept fish since I was a child but recently I aquired a small tank free (it was unused) and decided to get some fish again, and have rediscovered my love for them! Unfortunately I am flat broke at the moment and unable to afford any equiptment, I am hoping to get a small filter soon (and a bigger tank eventually) but it will be a few weeks at least. From what I have been reading it seems to be very important to have a filter, but what can I do in terms of water changes to keep the fish healthy in the interim? I am conscious of not changing the water too much as I know thats not good either.

I have two small minnows and a live plant in the 10L tank, its been two weeks now and them seem healthy, having perked up alot when I put the plant in.

Thanks!

Cookie_Monster

even with a filter it should be 10% a week.

I'd say maybe 30% or so once a week, or smaller amount more often.

The bacteria will still grow on other surfaces without the filter, but will grow as fast or abundant, especially with no water movement caused.
A 2L washed plastic milk jug is a handy piece of kit for water changes I find.