Inside Story

Did you know that June 18 is Clean Your Aquarium Day? Yes, it’s one of those random observances, but promoting the enjoyment of keeping aquariums and encouraging aquarium-owners to do regular maintenance to ensure the health and well-being of aquatic life, are both really good reasons to highlight this day every year. 

Regular cleaning helps prevent issues like low oxygen levels and poor fish respiration, which can arise from inadequate maintenance, according to National Today. 

Why Regular Aquarium Cleaning is Important

• Maintains Water Quality: Regular cleaning helps remove waste, uneaten food, and decaying organic matter, preventing the buildup of harmful toxins and maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. 
• Prevents Disease: Clean water reduces the risk of bacterial and parasitic infections that can thrive in dirty environments. 
• Promotes Fish Health: Proper water parameters, achieved through regular cleaning, are crucial for the health and vitality of your fish. 
• Enhances Aesthetics: A clean and well-maintained aquarium is more enjoyable to observe and admire. 

A General Guide to Cleaning Your Aquarium

• Weekly Maintenance:
  • Siphon the gravel: Use a gravel vacuum to remove debris and uneaten food from the substrate. 
  • Change a portion of the water: Replace about 10-15% of the tank water with fresh, dechlorinated water. 
  • Clean the algae: Gently remove algae from the inside of the aquarium glass. 
  • Check the filter: Ensure the filter is functioning correctly and clean or replace filter media as needed. 
• Monthly Maintenance:
  • Clean the filter media: Rinse or replace filter media (e.g., filter floss, sponges) as needed. 
  • Clean decorations: Remove and clean any decorations or artificial plants to prevent algae buildup. 
• Important Considerations:
  • Never completely empty and clean the tank: This can disrupt the beneficial bacteria colony that is essential for the aquarium’s ecosystem. 
  • Avoid using soaps or chemicals: These can be harmful to your fish and the beneficial bacteria. 
  • Monitor water parameters: Regularly test your aquarium water for pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to ensure a healthy environment. 

“The objective of cleaning is not just to clean, but to feel happiness living within that environment.” – Marie Kondo

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Photo Credit: Andrey_Nikitin / Shutterstock.com