How to Disinfect a Saltwater Aquarium by Adding Bleach

Bleach is an effective disinfectant, whether you're treating an algae problem or simply carrying out routine cleaning maintenance on your saltwater tank. Although it is a useful cleaner, bleach can be dangerous to both the aquatic life inside your aquarium and to humans, so use it with caution. Wear protective clothing when using the bleach and always test the salinity levels of the tank's water when you have finished disinfecting the tank to ensure the fish will be safe.

Things You'll Need

  • Quarantine tank
  • Nets
  • Bleach
  • Clean Water
  • Cup
  • Fresh aquarium saline solution
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the quarantine tank by filling it with enough saltwater (either from the original tank or freshly prepared) to house the fish and plants while you are cleaning the aquarium. Check the pH and temperature of the water to ensure it is suitable for your fish. Move your fish and any aquatic plants you have from the aquarium to the quarantine tank using the nets.

    • 2

      Fill the original tank with tap water. Measure out one cup of bleach for every 10 gallons of water in the tank. If the total amount of water in the tank is less than 10 gallons, reduce the amount of bleach you put in accordingly.

    • 3

      Place a glass cover over the top of the tank, leaving the bleach solution inside. Leave the tank for at least 24 hours with the solution inside.

    • 4

      Drain the water from the tank after 24 to 48 hours and rinse the tank out thoroughly using tap water, rubbing the sides of the tank with a cloth if necessary.

    • 5

      Fill the tank with a pre-prepared saltwater solution or mix one inside the clean tank. Remove any salt residue from the bottom of the tank before re-adding any ornaments or plants.

    • 6

      Replace any aquarium equipment. Check the salinity of the water and wait for the tank to become fully cycled. When the nitrogen cycle is in place, you can replace the fish carefully.