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How to Clean Saltwater Fish Tanks

by Kate Evelyn

  • Overview

    Saltwater fish tanks need to be cleaned at least once a week to keep the inhabitants happy and healthy, even if the tanks have filters on them. While the filter helps to get large particles out of the water, it doesn't do much to keep that icky green film from forming on the glass. It's best to leave the fish in the tank while you clean it; believe it or not. That way they don't go through the shock of having to adjust to a new environment, which can be very stressful for them.

  • Instructions

 

  • Step 1

    Fill your pitcher with enough water to fill 20 percent of your fish tank. Add the appropriate amount of salt for your fish and stir so that it dissolves. Let the water set out for 48 hours so it will acclimate to the temperature of the water already in the tank.

  • Step 2

    Turn off the tank's filter and wash your hands, rinsing them well. Wipe the inside of the walls of the tank with an algae scraper or a razor blade. Then wet your rag with lukewarm water, wring it out and wipe the outside of your fish tank. Don't forget to wipe down the lid and base.

  • Step 3

    Put the siphon tube in the tank, with the other end over the sink or a bucket. Either use your mouth or pump the ball to create a vacuum that sucks out the water, depending on your siphon type. Only remove 20 percent of it. Be careful to only get water in the siphon, not rocks and definitely not fish.

  • Step 4

    Use your ladle to take half of the gravel out of the bottom of the tank and put it in your sieve. Rinse it under the tap until the water comes through clear. Then set it out on a paper towel, or several paper towels, to dry for 20 minutes. While the gravel's drying, rake through the gravel still in the tank with your fingers. Suck up any debris that's in it with your siphon.

  • Step 5

    Use the algae scrubber on any accessories, such as treasure chests, without removing them from the tank. If it is absolutely necessary to take them out to get them clean, wash them with water only and leave them to dry for 20 minutes before replacing them.

  • Step 6

    Put the gravel and any accessories you took out back in the tank. Then pour in the new water you prepared in step one. Turn the filter back on.
  • 3
  • Algae scraper Sieve Salt Razor blade (optional) Cotton rag Siphon Ladle Paper towels
  • Algae scraper
  • Sieve
  • Salt
  • Razor blade (optional)
  • Cotton rag
  • Siphon
  • Ladle
  • Paper towels
  • If you can't find a sieve at your aquarium store, use a mesh fish net instead.
  • If you can't find a sieve at your aquarium store, use a mesh fish net instead.
  • Fish are very sensitive to change, to the point that they could get sick or even die from something as simple as their water being the wrong temperature. Always keep the environment as stable as possible.
  • Fish are very sensitive to change, to the point that they could get sick or even die from something as simple as their water being the wrong temperature. Always keep the environment as stable as possible.
     
     
 
 

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