How to Clean a Guppy Bowl

Guppies, also known as millionfish, are freshwater fish often kept as pets. They are somewhat small, social fish and can be regular or fancy. Keeping guppies in clean, fresh water by means of pumps and filters is important for the health of the fish and can extend their lifespan. However, you can also keep guppies in fish bowls, if you know how to clean them properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean transfer container
  • Small aquarium net
  • Soft bristle brush or sponge
  • Strainer
  • Water conditioner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start with an adequate size bowl for your guppies and keep it two-thirds full with room-temperature water. Keep only two fish per gallon of water in the bowl, as this will make cleaning easier and will keep your guppies at optimal health. Pay attention to excess food that is not consumed immediately and fish waste, because this will dirty the bowl quicker. If you notice the water is getting murky, do not hesitate to clean the bowl.

    • 2

      Make a schedule and plan to clean the bowl once or twice a week. Gently pour your fish with the old water into a clean and ready container. Remove all decorations, including rocks and gravel from the bowl. Scrub and rinse any larger items. Small pebbles can be rinsed in a strainer. Ensure that all scum and fish waste is removed. Lay the items on a clean towel to dry.

    • 3

      Scrub and rinse the bowl with a soft bristle brush or sponge. Ensure that any scum or algae growing on the inside or around the rim is removed. Use only warm water and do not use soap or harsh abrasive cleaners. Let the bowl dry on a towel.

    • 4

      Place the clean decorations and rocks back into bowl and fill it two-thirds full with room-temperature water. Add conditioner to the water if you know that your tap water contains chlorine. You can call the local water supplier to find out if there is chlorine. You can also let chlorinated water sit overnight, because chlorine will evaporate. If you do use a conditioner, you may need to clean the bowl more often because it may promote slime.

    • 5

      Use an aquarium net to transfer fish back into their fresh bowl. Do not pour fish in because that will mix the dirty water with the clean water.