Step 1: Choose the Right Tank

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Before you begin setting up your fish tank, the first thing to consider is the size and type of tank you need.

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• Tank Size: For this demonstration, we are using a 5-gallon tank. Small tanks can be a bit more challenging to maintain, they are a great way to start if you're limited on space. Please always do your research based on your species. 
  
   

• Type of Tank: This is a freshwater tank, which are perfect for beginners because they are easier to maintain than saltwater, and also offer a wide variety of fish to choose from.
   

 

Step 2: Clean the Tank and Other Supplies 

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Before adding anything to your tank, make sure to thoroughly clean the tank and all equipment, rinsing with extremely hot water. DO NOT use any soap or other harmful chemicals.  

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• Tank: Rinse the tank with warm water and you can even use a clean sponge. 
   

• Equipment: Clean your filter, heater, and any other equipment you plan to use.

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• Decorations: Any artificial decor, and even things such as substrate and driftwood. 
   

• Plants: ​This can especially crucial to reduce amount of unwanted guests, such as snails, which can become invasive. 

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Step 3: Add Substrate 

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Next, you'll want to add your substrate. This is the material that lines the bottom of your tank and provides a surface for beneficial bacteria to grow, as well as a foundation for plants and your decorations.

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• Gravel: The most common substrate for freshwater tanks, it comes in various sizes and colors. 
   

• Sand: Sand is a great option if you have fish that like to dig.
   

How to Add:
Spread the substrate evenly along the bottom of the tank. 2-3 inch depth is recommended, especially for planted tanks. 

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Step 4: Arrange Decorations and Plants

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Once the substrate is in place, it’s time to arrange your decorations and plants.

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• Live Plants: Live plants are great because they help oxygenate the water, reduce toxins, and provide shelter for your fish. Some good plant choices for small tanks include Java Fern, Anubias, and Amazon Swords.
   

• Other: These include rocks, caves, driftwood, and artificial decor. When picking out your decorations, especially driftwood and rocks, make sure they are free of any sharp edges that could harm your fish.

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* Tip: use sandpaper to file down any sharp edges on driftwood. ​
 

How to Add:
Take your time to arrange the decorations and plants in a way that creates hiding spots and provides plenty of swimming space. In a smaller tank like the 5 gallon, it’s important to avoid overcrowding, which can and will stress the fish.

 

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Step 5: Add Equipment

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Now you'll want to add your equipment.
 

• Filter: For this 5-gallon tank, we are using a sponge filter. The sponge filter helps remove debris from the water and also supports the growth of beneficial bacteria. I prefer to place these towards the back of the tank. 
   

• Heater: We need a heater to maintain a stable water temperature, make sure it is appropriate wattage for the size of your tank. 

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• Lighting: If you're using live plants, appropriate lighting is essential to support their growth. Run the light around 8–10 hours per day to simulate a natural day and night cycle.

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Step 6: Add Water and Water Conditioners

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Now it's time to fill your tank with water. 
 

• Filling the Tank: Tap water can contain chlorine and chloramine, which are harmful to fish, so you will need to treat the water with a water conditioner before adding it to your tank.
   

• Water Conditioner: Follow the instructions on the bottle for the appropriate dosage based on your tank's size.
   

* Tip: if you have a sand bottom, slowly pour water into tank, preferably over a decoration like driftwood to displace the water as much as possible, reducing the disturbance to the substance. 

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Step 7: Let the Tank Cycle

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Once the tank is filled with water and everything is set up, it’s time to cycle the tank. 

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• Cycling the Tank: It is crucial to cycle the tank before adding fish. This process establishes beneficial bacteria in the filter and substrate that break down harmful ammonia and nitrites into safer nitrates. The cycling process can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks, so please be patient and do not try to rush the process.

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• Testing the Water: Use a water testing kit to regularly check ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. When ammonia and nitrite levels are at 0 and nitrates are low, the tank has finished cycling and is safe for fish.