Useful Tips for Cleaning an Acrylic Aquarium
Posted: Saturday, April 23, 2011
by Dustin Williams
Family Biz
Cleaning your acrylic aquarium can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools the job can be safe for the tank and easy on you. Scratches can be avoided with the help of these useful tips to guide you through the process.
• For cleaning the outside of your acrylic tank DO NOT use products that contain ammonia, alcohol, or abrasives such as Windex and other commercial cleaners. DO NOT use coarse sponges or pads. The best thing to use is a soft cotton cloth with water or polish dedicated especially to acrylic.
• When there is algae close to the bottom of the tank, gently move aside any sand or gravel close to the edge of the acrylic. Use a plastic card (something like a credit card) to gently scrape off the algae from the acrylic sides. Soft plastic scrapers can also be purchased that are used for cleaning aquariums.
• Gravel or sand vacuums are great for cleaning the bottom of any fish tank. Be careful when using not to bump the sides of the acrylic tank.
• If algae becomes a big problem, you can empty the entire fish tank and soak with bleach water (use 1 part bleach to 20 parts water) for 24-48 hours. The algae will wipe off clean with a soft cotton cloth. Remember when refilling the acrylic aquarium to use double the amount of water conditioner (start right) to accommodate for the bleach.
• If scratches do occur in your acrylic tank, purchase an acrylic scratch removal kit. These will allow you to buff the scratches right out. There are even some kits that can be safely used underwater without having to remove any life from the aquarium.
Acrylic fish tanks have multiple advantages that come with them, but one common concern about them is their ability to scratch easily. Acrylic tanks can scratch, but the great thing about acrylic is that those scratches can be removed. Glass can also scratch, but there is no removing those scars on glass tanks. With the right equipment and knowledge, cleaning your acrylic fish tank is simple and scratches can be avoided.
Dustin Williams is the author of this acrylic aquariums article, and can provide more information at Family Biz Fish Tanks. Dustin is an avid family man and pet lover and has owned fish tanks for many years. Explore the world of exquisite acrylic aquariums and visit Family Biz Fish Tanks for the greatest deals on custom made acrylic fish tanks from Tenecor.
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