How to Clean Sandy Aquarium Substrate

Using sand as an aquarium substrate is highly recommended, especially for fish species that require a bit of sand to aid their digestion. Cleaning sandy aquarium substrate and keeping it clean is an important part of maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. Bits of food and fish waste can collect and penetrate the substrate, growing bacteria and algae that will eventually cloud the water. Whether you use fine or coarse sand, the cleaning method is basically the same.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium vacuum (siphon)
  • Bucket
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Turn off the filter system in the aquarium before cleaning, to avoid having stirred sand clog its impeller. Remove all decorations and large stones, but leave any plants that are rooted in the sand.

    • 2

      Put one end of the tube horizontally on the sand surface. Fill the hose with water from the other end. Place the other end in a bucket on the floor. Gravity will create a siphon, and water will begin to drain into the bucket.

    • 3

      Move the hose gently along the surface of the sand, vacuuming up a thin layer from the top. Fish waste and old food will be pulled up and out, along with a little bit of sand. Replace stones and decorations. Repeat these steps every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the size of your tank and how many fish live in it.

    • 4

      Stir the sand vigorously with your fingers after turning off the filter; do this every 3 months. This will allow fish waste, old food and other debris to be lifted up into the water. Wait a few moments for the sand to settle. Fish byproducts are lighter than sand and will continue to float. Turn on the filter and allow it to clean the byproducts from the water.