How to clean an aquarium?

How do I clean my aquarium?

As you know, the good health of your fish depends on the maintenance of your aquarium. To ensure the well-being of your marine companions, take care of their ecosystem: water, plants and accessories.

With this in mind, several steps must be followed for effective cleaning. First, prepare the necessary materials and then wash all the components of the aquarium in order.

List of equipment needed to maintain an aquarium

Before starting to clean your aquarium, plan the following tools and products:

• An aquarium landing net (to discover here);
• A large bucket;
• A new filter (purchased at a pet store or garden center);
• A magnet to remove algae deposited on the walls of the aquarium
• A plastic razor blade to scrape off debris stuck to the windows;
• A vacuum cleaner with siphon to remove waste deposited on the gravel;
• A pair of scissors ;
• A small toothbrush;
• Water stored for 24 hours previously in a container (to replace the amount of dirty water in the aquarium);
• A vinegar-based window cleaner;
• A sponge.

How to clean an aquarium step by step?

First of all, it is necessary to distinguish the “vital” maintenance of your fish from the aesthetic maintenance of the aquarium. The first should be done weekly.

On the other hand, the second can be done once a month. Your fish lives in a closed environment where toxic materials such as nitrates and phosphates grow. These are produced by the decomposition of plants and food and have a direct impact on the excessive growth of algae which can affect water quality.

Step 1: Unplug electrical appliances and remove all waste

As a safety measure, remember to unplug all electrical outlets (filters, heating, LED lighting, etc.). Then, remove the lid from the aquarium and begin by pruning the abundant plants with a pair of scissors. With the landing net, collect the large plant waste from the bin. Then remove all the decorative elements to wash them. In a container filled with clean water, scrub rocks, pebbles and plants well with a dedicated toothbrush. With a magnet and a plastic razor blade, scrape the green algae deposited on the windows.

Step 2: Remove the water from the aquarium

Use the vacuum and bucket to remove 10% to 20% of the water depending on your aquarium needs. This operation makes it possible to suck up all the waste deposited at the bottom of the tank at the same time. Remember to shake the nozzle of the vacuum cleaner to clean all corners. Before refilling the aquarium, rinse the filters with the water collected in the bucket. It does not contain chlorine and is at the right temperature.

Step 3: Fill the aquarium with new water

Fill the aquarium with water stored in a container without a lid from the day before. This aged water poses no risk to fish. It is at room temperature and its chlorine has evaporated.

Finally, do not forget to polish the outer walls of your aquarium with a glass cleaner and a sponge. Finally, connect filters, heating and lighting to admire your faithful companion!

What to remember to clean your aquarium

Please note that regular maintenance of your aquarium is vital for the safety of your fish. Even if it can take about twenty minutes per week, the renewal of the water is essential. To maintain the biological balance of the water, the following elements must be taken into account.

The water temperature must remain stable, especially at the time of the water change. For goldfish and species from temperate environments, it is not necessary to heat the aquarium. On the other hand, for tropical species like the fighter, heating is necessary.

The volume of water to be renewed must not exceed 20% of the total volume. This allows the maintenance of certain bacteria necessary for the fish ecosystem.

The frequency of water change may vary depending on the number and size of fish. For saltwater aquariums, the filters should be changed more often to better purify the water.

The aquarium: a soothing hobby for young and old!

There you have it: the maintenance of your aquarium no longer holds any secrets for you. It is a hobby that guarantees the health and well-being of your pet. So, make it a moment of conviviality to share with your family! Thanks to your efforts, your aquarium will become a real decorative object. However, keep in mind that your aquarium is first and foremost your fish's home.

Do you want to become an aquarist expert? So browse our blog for tips and advice on how to spruce up your aquarium!