How to Clean Aquarium Accessories

An aquarium is a closed system that can't tolerate the introduction of toxins. Even small amounts of commonly used household chemicals can be fatal to the organisms in your tank. It is important to keep your tank and its accessories clean, but it is even more important to do it safely.

Things You'll Need

  • Bristle brush
  • Clean cloth
  • Unused toothbrush
  • Vinegar
  • Hot water
  • Clean bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine which items in your aquarium need to be cleaned. Look for algae growth on plastic plants and hard-water stains on outside power filters.

    • 2

      If you need to clean your power filter, you may need to remove the uptake tube and clean any algae or debris in it. The tube can be cleaned using a bristle brush or a new toothbrush. Do not use a toothbrush or a bristle brush that has been exposed to chemicals.

    • 3

      Fill a bucket with hot water--not boiling water--and slowly add the aquarium accessories that need to be cleaned. The hot water will loosen the algae clinging to the artificial plants and help loosen hard-water stains on power filters and other accessories.

    • 4

      Let the aquarium accessories sit in the hot water until the water has cooled--at least 10 to 15 minutes. It can take at least that long for the accumulated debris to come loose.

    • 5

      Remove the accessories from the bucket and examine them carefully. Items that have been cleaned sufficiently can be put back in your tank. The rest of the accessories will need additional cleaning with a 50-50 solution of vinegar and water. You may need to scrub off the hard-water stains and any remaining algae. When you are done, rinse all of the accessories thoroughly with hot water to remove any vinegar residue.