How to Clean a Five-Gallon Fish Tank

Cleaning your fish tank is an important part of ensuring the health of your fish. You should perform this task without emptying the tank, or you will remove the good bacteria that is growing within it.

Things You'll Need

  • Algae scraper
  • Razor blades
  • Bleach
  • Water siphon
  • Lime remover
  • Paper towels
  • Glass cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Transfer the fish to a container with water from the tank. Transferring the fish to water of different temperature can put them into shock.

    • 2

      Use the algae scraper to clean the inside of the glass. Wipe the scraper clean with a paper towel after each use.

    • 3

      Scrape areas that have extreme buildup of algae with the razor blades.

    • 4

      Remove the artificial plants, decorations and rocks and clean them with the algae scraper. Don't use any cleaners or soap that are not designed for fish tanks, since these can be harmful to fish.

    • 5

      Mix bleach and water to clean any of the plants, decorations or rocks of any algae buildup scraping doesn't remove. Soak the decorations in 1 part bleach to 10 parts water. Rinse them thoroughly and allow them to air dry before returning them to the tank.

    • 6

      Clean the hood, top, fish tank exterior and the light with lime remover and glass cleaner. Remember to use products that are specifically made for use in fish tanks.

    • 7

      Use the siphon to clean the gravel. Gently vacuum the top of the gravel to remove all the algae and other debris.

    • 8

      Place all the plants, decorations and rocks back in the tank.

    • 9

      Give the good bacteria 2 to 3 weeks to regenerate before cleaning the filter.