Betta fish, also called Siamese fighting fish, is one of the most popular freshwater fish in the world, and for good reason.
They are beautiful and easy to care for, but like any other pet, regular tank cleaning is necessary to keep their environment clean and healthy.
Fortunately, learning how to clean a betta fish tank requires little to no time and effort.
How To Clean A Betta Fish Tank?
Notice your betta fish tank looking a little grimy? Don’t panic.
All it takes is some friendly advice and a little bit of time and effort, and it will be good to go.
If you don’t have any idea what to do, here’s a detailed guide to walk you through the process:
Preparation
Before getting started with the dirty work, you will want to make sure everything’s ready and within arm’s reach.
By preparing all the necessary tools for each step, you can ensure you don’t miss a single detail later on.
These tips are for anyone responsible for the upkeep of a betta fish tank. However, it’s also important that you read what your fish tank’s manual says.
Step 1: Wear disposable gloves.
You probably already know this, but fish tanks are infested with good and bad bacteria that may be harmful to you.
At the same time, your hands may also have germs that could disrupt the balance inside your tank.
So, before doing anything, make sure you wash your hands thoroughly, dry them, and wear a pair of disposable gloves.
Step 2: Prepare “new” freshwater.
Whether you are going to replace a fraction of the water in your tank or all of it, you will need fresh water.
Because betta fish are extremely delicate, tap water isn’t safe for them to swim in.
Tap water contains chlorine and other toxic substances that might harm or even kill your fish.
If you can’t find fresh water, you can use aquarium salt or water conditioners to neutralize the harmful chemicals in tap water.
Step 3: Turn off electrical components.
Next, turn off all electrical devices, such as the aquarium filter and heater, as you would not use them while cleaning the tank.
Now is also the time to replace any faulty parts before placing them back in later on.
Cleaning a Betta Fish Tank
After preparing everything, follow these six steps on how to clean a betta fish tank:
Step 1: Remove betta fish from the tank.
Using a small fishnet, gently relocate your betta fish to a smaller container filled with the old tank water.
Make sure the container is big enough for your fish to swim around in while you’re cleaning his home.
It also has to have a lid to keep your fish from jumping out.
Step 2: Siphon the water.
Using a cup, collect just enough tank water depending on how much you intend to replace.
Most of the time, only 10 to 20 percent of the water needs to be replaced. Replacing all the water will likely shock your fish and stress them out.
Step 3: Remove and clean the ornaments.
Remove the ornaments in the tank with a spade or by hand. Place these ornaments in another container to be cleaned separately.
For the gravel, you can sieve it until the small food debris and fish poop are removed.
Use tap water for cleaning but avoid using soap or other cleaning agents, as these might be toxic to your betta fish.
Step 4: Scrub your fish tank.
Give your fish tank a nice scrub, preferably using an aquarium sponge or a soft brush.
It is safe to use warm tap water to clean your tank. Make sure to remove the accumulated dirt and slime.
Give the corners and the bottom of the tank a good scrub, as these are the dirtiest areas in your fish tank.
Once all that’s done, give it a good rinse.
Step 5: Add everything back in.
Now that everything is sparkling clean, you can put everything back in the fish tank.
Carefully place the gravel first in the bottom of the container to avoid breaking the glass. Make sure it is evenly arranged as well.
Add all the ornaments back in, depending on how you’d want it to look. You might even want to experiment with a new look for your fish tank.
Slowly refill your fish tank with the old tank water and the new freshwater.
If you notice the temperatures are different, use a heater to get it around 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
You’d want the environment of your betta fish to be as close as it used to be before cleaning.
Finally, set up the electrical components of the fish tank.
Step 6: Turn on electrical components.
It’s now time to turn on the heater, filter, and other electrical components for your fish tank.
Then, let the system run for a few minutes and check for any other issues.
If you notice some components not running smoothly, now might be the perfect time to replace some parts like the filter cartridge.
Step 7: Place your betta fish back in.
If you’re sure the tank is perfect for your betta fish, it is time to take it home.
To keep your fish safe, take the container with the fish inside and gently place it in the tank.
This allows the fish to swim comfortably into its newly cleaned home.
How Often Should The Betta Fish Tank Be Cleaned?
You must be wondering how often you have to do this chore, right? Well, it actually depends on the size of your fish tank.
Smaller tanks will accumulate waste faster than larger tanks. It will reach high toxic levels faster since the area is much smaller.
You will need to clean your aquarium once or twice a week if you own a small tank.
On the other hand, larger tanks only need 10 to 20 percent water replacement every week or two and can go several weeks before needing a full clean.
Do take note that you have to observe when your tank needs cleaning.
Keeping live plants in the tank and how much food you feed your fish also impact how often you need to clean it to some extent.
Every tank is different as well as its needs.
If you observe that your betta fish tank requires frequent cleaning, it may be time to replace the filter and check for issues.
If you can invest to achieve a balanced and healthy ecosystem in your betta fish tank, you’d be amazed at how long before it needs a thorough cleaning.
Betta Fish Tank Management
Now that you’re aware of the key things needed to clean your tank, we suggest you also learn how to maintain it.
If you cluelessly clean your fish tank without knowing how to manage it, there will be some issues you’re likely to face along the way.
Here are some things you certainly want to know about maintaining your fish tank in pristine condition:
Ammonia Poisoning
When you replace the water in your fish tank, a small fraction of the good bacteria is also removed.
Ammonia forms when uneaten fish food or other organic matter in the tank decays.
This can lead your fish to be stressed, get gill and organ damage, or even death if not properly addressed.
That said, it’s important to monitor the amount of ammonia in your fish tank and test your water if your fish aren’t happy.
Filter Media
Never underestimate the power of a good filter in a fish tank.
A high-end filter media can house a good ecosystem for your betta fish, cycling enough nitrogen and healthy bacteria in the tank.
On the other hand, having a poor filtration system will run you into issues, as your tank will not find the right balance in its ecosystem.
There would be a lack of good bacteria, while your tank will be more prone to toxic substances.
It is best to invest in a reliable filtration system beforehand.
Algae Bloom
While some may debate that algae should be removed at all costs, it is biologically harmless.
Too many algae present can pose a risk. Plus, an ammonia surge can happen if the algae decompose at the same time.
As a preventive measure, you can use a socket timer to prevent your lights from being on for too long.
Live plants are also helpful in removing excess nitrates in the tank that make room for algae to grow.
When algae become too noticeable, your tank may need cleaning with a scrub.
Another solution would be to incorporate algae eaters in your fish tank. It may not be the best solution for algae control, but it is an excellent mitigation tool.
Besides, you’re introducing more friends to your betta fish. Just make sure you have room to spare in your fish tank.
pH Fluctuations
The pH value in your betta fish tank will depend on what’s in it.
Understanding your fish tank’s chemistry is a great way to keep its pH levels in check. Also, consider what chemicals you add.
Typically, betta fish should be maintained at a neutral pH level.
Achieving the correct balance will most likely encourage your betta fish to swim more inside the tank.
You can safely and naturally adjust the pH levels of your betta fish tank by adding different rock minerals.
Alternatively, you can use pH tablets that quickly dissolve in a few minutes.
Clean Tank = Happy and Healthy Fish
It is essential to be consistent with keeping your fish healthy and happy.
While it may seem intimidating at first, cleaning your betta fish tank is not a difficult task.
By following these easy steps, you can keep your tank clean and sparkling for your betta to enjoy.