How to Clean Your Fish Tank

Part of aquarium maintenance is periodic cleaning. This is best done at the same time as a partial water change.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Filter cartridges
• Toothbrush
• Paper towels
• Bucket
• Aquarium sponge
• Conditioner
• Gravel vacuum

1. Fill a bucket or other container with enough water to replace the amount you intend to take out. The container should be used for aquarium water only. Add conditioner and aquarium salt to the water and allow to sit for at least half an hour.

2. Unplug and remove the filter (if possible) and place in sink. Throw away the old cartridge and save the cartridge frame, if recommended. If your filter cannot be removed, then change the cartridge after water change is complete.

3. Scrub the sides of the tank with an aquarium sponge, removing all algae and scum.

4. Using a gravel vacuum, remove 10-25% of the water from the tank. Use the vacuum to dig around in the gravel and remove any waste or food that is trapped.

5. Using a toothbrush and aquarium sponge, clean the filter. Remove as much algae and salt build-up as possible.

6. Put filter back on tank and replace cartridge. Rinse the new cartridge and use the old cartridge frame in order to preserve biological filtration.

7. Fill tank with the conditioned water until the water level is approximately one inch from the filter output. Fill reservoir of filter and plug it in.