How to Clean Dried Salt Deposits on an Acrylic Tank

A saltwater aquarium has a higher level of maintenance than a freshwater tank. The salt inside the aquarium sticks to the aquarium tools, creating hard salt deposits that make it difficult to see inside the tank and can also interfere with the function of the equipment. An acrylic tank can be more difficult to clean than a glass tank because the plastic can easily scratch. However, if you clean the tank at least once a week with a soft sponge or cloth, then there should be no need to use abrasive tools that can damage the acrylic.

Things You'll Need

  • Soft sponge with handle
  • Soft cloths
  • Vinegar
  • Cotton swabs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the inside of the acrylic tank with a handled sponge soaked in clean, fresh water. Rub the sponge inside the tank to remove salt deposits from the sides of the tank. Pay special attention to the acrylic right at water level, as most salt deposits occur in this area. Rub the acrylic until the salt washes away.

    • 2

      Create a solution of ¼ cup vinegar in 2 qt. of water. Dip a soft cloth in this mixture and wring out excess moisture from the cloth. Rub the outside of the tank and the tank stand to remove salt deposits.

    • 3

      Unplug the lighting system. Unscrew the bulbs. Clean the bulb and lighting housing with a cloth dipped into the vinegar solution. Dip a cotton swab into the vinegar mixture and clean out the light sockets.

    • 4

      Rinse the fan and filter intake with the vinegar-soaked cloth to remove any dried salt deposits. Clean the top of the filter and the tank reflector with the cloth as well.

    • 5

      Unplug all power cords. Wipe the cords with the cloth to remove dried salt from the cords. Plug everything back in when you have finished wiping all surfaces.