Keep It Clean: A Simple Guide to Ornament Maintenance
Aquarium ornaments add beauty, structure, and personality to your tank—but over time, they can collect algae, biofilm, and waste, dulling your aquascape and potentially harming your water quality. Regular cleaning helps keep your tank looking sharp without disrupting the balance of your aquatic ecosystem.
Here’s how to clean and maintain your aquarium ornaments like a pro.
What You’ll Need:
- A dedicated bucket (never used for chemicals)
- Soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- Aquarium-safe algae scrubber
- Dechlorinated water or tank water (from a water change)
- Optional: vinegar for stubborn mineral deposits (used safely outside the tank)
Step-by-Step Ornament Cleaning Guide
1. Remove Ornaments During Water Changes
Take out ornaments during your regular partial water change. This is a natural time to clean without additional disturbance.
2. Scrub Gently with Tank or Dechlorinated Water
Use a soft brush and water from the tank to remove algae and debris. Never use soap or household cleaners—they’re toxic to fish, even in trace amounts.
3. Use Vinegar for Hard Water Stains
If there’s stubborn calcium buildup, soak the ornament in a 1:1 vinegar and water solution (outside the tank), then rinse thoroughly and air dry before placing it back.
4. Check for Damage
Inspect decorations for cracks, rough edges, or fading coatings. Damaged ornaments should be replaced to avoid injury or contamination.
5. Replace Strategically
Don’t move all hiding spots or structures at once—this can confuse or stress territorial fish. Reintroduce ornaments gradually in their original positions when possible.
How Often Should You Clean Ornaments?
- Every 2–4 weeks for visible algae and buildup
- Immediately if ornaments look moldy or slimy
-
Less frequently if ornaments are covered in beneficial biofilm for breeding tanks
What to Avoid
- Soap, bleach, or detergents
- Metal ornaments or coatings
- Over-cleaning, which can disturb beneficial bacteria colonies
