How to Get Salt Off of a Plastic Fish Tank

Plastic, or acrylic, aquariums have become popular alternatives to the standard glass aquariums; they're stronger, lighter, and far more durable than traditional glass tanks. Plastic tanks occasionally hold saltwater fish, and as anyone who has kept a saltwater aquarium knows, salt from the evaporating water tends to build up around the top of the tank. On glass aquariums, the salt may not stick as stubbornly and be quite easy to remove. On plastic or acrylic aquariums, however, removing the salt is a slightly more demanding task.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic paint scraper
  • Rags, dampened with warm water
  • Rough sponge
  • Vinegar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scrape off the larger amounts of salt residue using the paint scraper. If there is a big enough buildup, the salt may come off in thick sheets.

    • 2

      Lather warm water and vinegar onto the remaining salt and let it sit for about 2 to 3 minutes. The warm water and vinegar mix will hopefully dissolve some of the salt, making it easier to remove.

    • 3

      Gently rub off the remaining salt with the rough sponge,. To avoid scratching the plastic, make sure not to press too hard. You should do this until nearly all of the salt has been removed.

    • 4

      Wipe away any remaining residue--which should now come off easily--with the damp rags. Clean the plastic with another damp rag, giving it a shine.