Having an aquarium at home is beneficial both for its visual appeal and for health reasons. It is a well-known fact that aquariums have calming and soothing effects on people. They are used for stress management and also have features like reducing humidity and purifying the air in their environment. Considering these positive effects, how should an aquarium be cleaned at home? Here are some tips for cleaning your tank without harming the fish. If you're wondering how to clean a fishbowl, the cleaning methods provided here can also be used for that.
Cleaning Aquarium Glass
Aquarium water becomes cloudy over time, and the glass develops algae. Floating debris in the water adds to the stress on fish, making them lethargic. Regular cleaning of aquarium algae is essential. Algae on aquarium glass are caused by light sources. It has been observed that aquariums placed in sunny areas produce more algae. You can clean these using various methods:
- Special Sponges: Use sponges specifically designed for aquariums. These long-handled sponges allow you to clean the aquarium glass without much difficulty.
- Magnetic Glass Cleaner: Another option is a magnetic glass cleaning tool, which you can purchase from pet stores. Place one part of the cleaner inside the tank and align it with the external part. Then clean by moving it up and down.
- Cleaning Fish: Adding fish like plecos can help keep the tank glass clean for longer.
Changing Aquarium Water
- Use Water Left Out for Three Days: Replace the water with water that has been left out for three days.
- Partial Water Changes: Avoid completely emptying the tank. Change about 70% of the water and keep the fish in the removed tank water during the process. Completely replacing the water disrupts the natural environment of the fish, causing stress and possibly leading to their death.
- Pour Water Slowly: When refilling the tank, pour the water slowly to avoid stressing the fish.
Cleaning the Aquarium Bottom
- Use Gravel Vacuums: You can use manual or automatic gravel vacuums. Place one end inside the tank and the other outside to remove debris from the bottom. This also helps in maintaining clean water.
- Cleaning Decorations: Decorations can be cleaned in the dishwasher, but avoid placing small gravel that could damage the machine.
- Rinse Small Stones: Wash small pebbles under running water.
- Cleaning Fish: You can also keep fish that help clean the aquarium, such as bottom feeders.
Cleaning Aquarium Filters
- Adjust According to Size: The cleaning process may vary depending on the size and type of the filter.
- Wash Mechanical Parts: Carefully dismantle the parts and wash them thoroughly under running water.
- Use Tank Water: For cleaning internal filter sponges, use the water you removed from the tank during cleaning. Washing sponges under tap water can kill beneficial bacteria, which is harmful to the fish.
- Replace Sponges Regularly: Regularly replacing external filter sponges ensures the health of your fish.
Important Points to Remember
- Avoid using chemicals like detergents during aquarium cleaning.
- Regular cleaning is crucial for your fish's health; neglect can lead to their death.
- Minimize stress on fish during cleaning.
Cleaning your aquarium regularly not only ensures the health of your fish but also maintains a visually appealing and relaxing environment.
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