How to Disinfect a Saltwater Aquarium

If you have a saltwater aquarium, you need to know the best way to disinfect it. Disinfecting your saltwater aquarium should be a part of your regular maintenance. This will help to prevent and eliminate algae. Algae can get out of control easily if it is not eliminated promptly. Bleach is one of the most safe and effective method of disinfecting a saltwater aquarium. You can successfully disinfect your saltwater aquarium with bleach, if used correctly.

Things You'll Need

  • Bleach
  • Water
  • Cloth
  • Aquarium fish net
  • Fish tank or quarantine tank
  • Spray bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unplug the saltwater aquarium. Place the fish and plants in a fish tank or quarantine tank with clean saltwater. Use an aquarium fish net to remove them safely to the tank.

    • 2

      Drain the water out of the saltwater aquarium. Wipe down the inside of the aquarium thoroughly with a wet cloth. Add nine parts of water to 1 part of regular household bleach into a spray bottle.

    • 3

      Spray the surfaces of the saltwater aquarium thoroughly with the bleach solution. Let it stay for at least 10 to 15 minutes to thoroughly disinfect it.

    • 4

      Rinse the saltwater aquarium thoroughly with warm water. Allow the aquarium to air dry, then add the appropriate amount of pre-mixed salt water to it.

    • 5

      Disinfect decorations, gravel and filters with the bleach solution. Spray them with the bleach and leave them for 10 minutes, then rinse with clean water.

    • 6

      Take the fish from the quarantine tank using the aquarium fish net and put them into the saltwater aquarium. Finally put back the filter, gravel and decorations inside the aquarium and plug it.