Gravel Vacuums 

Gravel vacuums remove uneaten food, fish waste, and debris trapped in the substrate. They also allow for easy water changes, which are critical for nutrient control and fish health.

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Types:

• Manual siphons (gravity-based)

• Battery-operated siphons (motorized suction)

• Integrated water changers (connect to sink faucet for draining and refilling)

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Pros:

• Efficient at removing debris from substrate

• Helps with partial water changes

• Available in a variety of sizes for different tank volumes
   

Cons:

• Manual siphons can be tricky for beginners to prime

• Some models lack flow control

• Inexpensive models may clog easily or wear out quickly
   

Price Range:

• Manual siphons: $10–$25

• Battery-operated models: $25–$50

• Sink-connected water changers: $35–$75+

 

 

Aquarium Sponges and Algae Scrapers

Used to clean the inside glass or acrylic of the aquarium, removing algae, film, and water marks. Sponges are ideal for regular light cleaning, while scrapers help with more stubborn buildup.

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Types:

• Handheld sponges

• Scrapers with replaceable blades

• Long-handled versions for deep tanks

• Magnetic algae cleaners

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Pros:

• Safe for glass or acrylic if material is properly matched

• Reusable and easy to store

• Magnetic options clean without reaching inside the tank
   

Cons:

• Acrylic tanks require specialized soft sponges to prevent scratching

• Magnetic cleaners can trap sand or debris and scratch glass if not used carefully

• Blades on scrapers can dull or rust over time
   

Price Range:

• Sponges: $3–$10

• Scrapers: $10–$30

• Magnetic cleaners: $15–$40+

 

 

Algae Pads, Brushes, and Detail Cleaners

Designed to clean decorations, corners, equipment surfaces, and areas that are hard to reach with sponges. Brushes and pads help remove tougher buildup without damaging tank materials.

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Types:

• Bristle brushes for rocks, ornaments, and filter housings

• Scouring pads (aquarium-safe only)

• Detail brushes with narrow tips for crevices

Pros:

• Excellent for cleaning tight spaces and equipment

• Brushes can extend the lifespan of filter parts and decor

• Good for deep cleaning during tank overhauls
   

Cons:

• Some pads wear down quickly or shed fibers

• Brushes may be too harsh on delicate materials like plastic plants

• Not ideal for frequent use inside the tank (use during water changes)

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Price Range:

• $5–$20 per set, depending what is included 

 

 

Buckets, Towels, and Other Accessories

Though basic, dedicated aquarium buckets and towels help maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination. Household cleaning tools often carry soaps or residues that are harmful to fish.

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Essential Accessories:

• 5-gallon bucket used only for water changes

• Microfiber towels for wiping tank glass and cleaning up spills

• Drying racks or hooks to air dry tools and nets

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Pros:

• Prevents accidental chemical contamination

• Keeps work area clean and organized

• Inexpensive and reusable
   

Cons:

• Easy to overlook, yet vital to safe aquarium care

• Improper use (e.g., using cleaning detergent in buckets) can harm tank inhabitants
   

Price Range:

• Buckets: $5–$15

• Towels: $5–$20 per set