How to Clean a Betta Fish Tank with Leftover Mold and Food

Bettas can live in a small bowl or tank, but keeping these tanks clean can be a challenge. The smaller the amount of water, the quicker the water quality goes bad. Feed the betta sparingly to avoid excessive amounts of uneaten food. Bettas have upturned mouths and prefer to feed off the surface of the water. Any food that sinks will go to waste and start to mold. A betta tank should be cleaned at least once a week.

Things You'll Need

  • Container
  • Aquarium net
  • Sponge or algae scraper
  • Aquarium siphon
  • Aquarium conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour some of the tank water into another container, then move the betta into the new container by scooping it up with a net. This will keep the fish from getting injured during the cleaning process.

    • 2

      Remove any items of tank decor that will interfere with cleaning. Scrub them with a wet sponge to remove any algae or scum.

    • 3

      Scrape the sides of the tank to remove any algae or stuck-on debris using an algae scraper or a rough sponge.

    • 4

      Siphon the bottom of larger tank with an aquarium siphon, a large tube that attaches to a hose, which drains into a bucket. The tube sucks up the waste and mold, which then flows out with the water.

    • 5

      Carry smaller betta tanks to the sink or bathtub and run water into them. Swish the water around to stir up the food and mold, then pour off the water; repeat until the water runs clean.

    • 6

      Add more water to the tank and let the temperature equalize. Rearrange the tank decor and add a few drops of aquarium conditioner to remove chlorine from the water, then return the betta to its tank.