Best Aquarium Cleaners of 2025

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Aquarium cleaners are essential for maintaining a healthy and clean aquatic environment for fish and other aquatic creatures. These products come in various forms, including filters, gravel cleaners, and algae scrapers. Filters remove debris and impurities from the water, while gravel cleaners eliminate waste and leftover food particles from the substrate. Algae scrapers, on the other hand, remove unsightly algae buildup from the tank walls and decorations. Regular use of aquarium cleaners ensures that the water remains clear and odorless, promoting the overall health and well-being of the aquatic inhabitants.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Cover #TOP 1
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums Cover #TOP 2
Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums
ftb score rating icon 9.7
SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper Cover #TOP 3
SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Aquarium Cleaners

#TOP 1

Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets

100106170
Black
Small
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Cover
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Glass/Acrylic, Small, Black

The Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets are designed to make cleaning the inside of your aquarium easier from the outside. The scrubber is weighted to prevent it from floating away and can be used on both glass and acrylic aquariums. The curved pad is useful for cleaning flat and curved surfaces, and if separated from the magnet, the scrubber falls straight down for easy retrieval.

What We Like
Powerful magnets
Easy to use
Durable construction
Versatile for glass and acrylic
What We Don't Like
Picks up sand near bottom
Doesn't float when released
#TOP 2

Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums

AQ-78358
55 gallons
Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums Cover
Tetra Water Maintence Items for Aquariums - Makes Water Changes Easy

The Tetra Water Cleaner is an aquarium cleaner that makes water changes easy. This gravel siphon is compatible with aquariums up to 55 gallons and only takes 30 minutes to replace 30% of the water every 30 days. The siphon makes it easy to remove debris from gravel by moving the water cleaner throughout the gravel. The Tetra Water Cleaner comes with a gravel siphon, priming bulb, and clip for the bucket, making it easy to set up.

What We Like
Easy to use
Effective suction
Clear vacuum chamber
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Shorter hose desired
Not a long-term solution
#TOP 3

SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper

4346780443
Blue
SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper Cover
SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper Double Sided Sponge Brush Cleaner Long Handle Fish Tank Scrubber for Glass Aquariums and Home Kitchen,15.4 inches

The SLSON Aquarium Algae Scraper is a double-sided sponge brush cleaner with a long handle, designed for cleaning glass aquariums and home kitchens. The sponge is made of high-quality material that can quickly and effectively remove algae, keeping your fish tank inhabitants in a clean environment. The brush handle is sturdy and durable, with a non-slip surface that makes cleaning work easier. The brush has a hole on the end of the handle for easy storage and drying after use. Please note that it is not suitable for use on acrylic or plastic fish tanks. Rinse the brush pad with tap water before and after each use, and keep the brush head clean and dry before storing.

What We Like
Tough plastic handles
Effective for algae cleaning
Long handle for deep tanks
Fast air drying
Reasonable price
What We Don't Like
Handle may seem less sturdy
Angle adjustment can be tricky
#TOP 4

API SAFE & EASY Aquarium Cleaner Spray 8-Ounce Bottle

API
Black
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
API SAFE & EASY Aquarium Cleaner Spray 8-Ounce Bottle Cover
API SAFE & EASY Aquarium Cleaner Spray 8-Ounce Bottle

The API Aquarium Cleaner Spray is a safe and easy solution for keeping your aquarium clean. This 8-ounce bottle is designed to clean both the inside and outside of glass and acrylic aquariums. It effectively cuts through white, crusty mineral deposits, leaving your aquarium glass sparkling clean. The best part is that it is safe for both fish and plants, so you don't have to worry about any harmful chemicals harming your aquatic pets. With the API Aquarium Cleaner Spray, cleaning your aquarium has never been easier. Say goodbye to dirty glass and hello to a crystal clear view of your underwater world.

What We Like
Safe for fish and plants
Effective on hard water stains
No scent or residue
Easy to use during water changes
Good quality glass cleaner
What We Don't Like
Not as powerful as traditional cleaners
#TOP 5

enomol Gravel Vacuum for Aquarium Water Changer

ENOMOL023
BLACK
30ft
enomol Gravel Vacuum for Aquarium Water Changer Cover
enomol Gravel Vacuum for Aquarium Water Changer Fish Tank Cleaning Tools,Siphon Universal Quick Pump Aquarium Water Changing (30ft)

The enomol Gravel Vacuum is a semi-automatic water changer for medium to large fish tanks. With only two valves and a long hose, it allows for quick water changes and uses tap water pressure to drain water. The 16.5-inch cleaning tube has a built-in filter to remove debris while gently agitating the gravel. It comes with multiple faucet adapters and is easy to install and operate without the need for buckets, spills, or noise. This 2022 upgraded version promises higher quality and comfort, with customer satisfaction as a top priority.

What We Like
Easy to use
Fast water changes
Multiple fittings included
Time-saving
Effective suction with good pressure
What We Don't Like
Assembly could be tricky
Occasional suction issues
#TOP 6

Tetra No More Algae Tablets

77344
8-Tabs
Tetra No More Algae Tablets Cover
Tetra No More Algae Tablets, 8 tablets, Controls Algae in Aquariums

Tetra Algae Control Tablets are designed to help you maintain a clean and clear aquarium. These tablets effectively eliminate existing algae from the water while preventing new growth, ensuring your tank stays healthy. You can use them in both glass and acrylic aquariums, giving you flexibility in your setup. Each fizz tab is convenient and ready to use, making it easy for you to incorporate into your regular maintenance routine. For best results, simply apply these tablets once a month or as soon as you notice algae appearing in your tank.

What We Like
Easy to use
Effective algae control
Harmless to fish
Clear water
Good value
What We Don't Like
May harm live plants
Limited effectiveness for some algae
#TOP 7

Luigi's Aquarium & Fish Tank Siphon and Gravel Cleaner

Clear/Green
Luigi's Aquarium & Fish Tank Siphon and Gravel Cleaner Cover
Luigi's Fish Tank Cleaner - Gravel Pump Vacuum for Aquarium - Hand Siphon Hose to Remove and Change Water or Sand in Minutes - Fish Aquarium Accessories, Supplies & Cleaning Tools

Luigi's Aquarium & Fish Tank Siphon and Gravel Cleaner is a simple yet effective solution to drain and replace tank water, clean aquarium gravel, and remove fish waste and toxins. Its one-way valve ensures there are no messy drips and its attached filter prevents small fish and shrimp from getting sucked up.

What We Like
Effective suction power
Easy to use
Quick water changes
Good price point
Ideal for small tanks
What We Don't Like
May pick up small gravel
Limited hose length
#TOP 8

Laifoo 5ft Aquarium Siphon Vacuum Cleaner

4346801704
Clear
Laifoo 5ft Aquarium Siphon Vacuum Cleaner Cover
Laifoo 5ft Aquarium Siphon Vacuum Cleaner for Fish Tank Cleaning Gravel & Sand

The Laifoo 5ft Aquarium Siphon Vacuum Cleaner is a great tool to keep your fish tank clean. With an easy-to-control function, it is convenient to siphon fish faeces, impurities, and turbid water out of the fish tank. The 5 feet hose is made of clear and elastic plastic, which makes it durable and anti-kinking. The sinkable gravel tube has a detachable filter screen inside, which will not disturb fish or decor during use. The siphon ball is easy to use, and with just a few pinches, water will flow out automatically without striking or blowing.

What We Like
Effective suction power
Easy-to-use bulb priming
Adjustable flow control
Built-in filter bag
Sturdy and durable construction
What We Don't Like
Minor leakage issues
Difficulty with smaller tanks
#TOP 9

AQUANEAT Fish Tank Cleaning Tools

AQUANEAT Fish Tank Cleaning Tools Cover
AQUANEAT Fish Tank Cleaning Tools, Aquarium Double Sided Sponge Brush, Algae Scraper Cleaner with Long Handle

The AQUANEAT Algae Scrubber is a handy tool for keeping your fish tank clean. Made of high-quality sponge, it effectively removes algae, maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. The sturdy plastic handle with a non-slip surface makes cleaning easier. The convenient hole at the handle's end allows for easy hanging and storage. Suitable for glass fish tanks, this tool is not recommended for acrylic or plastic tanks. The sponge's dimensions are 3”x2.5” and the handle is 12.5” long.

What We Like
High quality product
Competitively priced
Durable feel
Early shipping
Well made
What We Don't Like
Handle could be longer
#TOP 10

QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Vacuum Fish Tank Cleaner

QZQ
QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Vacuum Fish Tank Cleaner Cover
QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner [2024 Edition] Vacuum Fish Tank Vacuum Cleaner Tools for Aquarium Water Changer with Aquarium Thermometers Fish Net kit Use for Fish Tank Cleaning Gravel and Sand

The QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner is a mufti-functional cleaning kit that adopts siphon design principle allowing for aquarium sand washing, algae scraping, fish excrement cleaning, debris removal, and water changing. It has a wide range of accessory combinations with 2 inlet pipes that can be combined according to the fish tank size. The new upgrade function provides convenience and pleasing appearance without electricity. It is easy to use and assemble, and comes with a flow regulator. The Aquarium gravel cleaner kit is designed to be attached to the tank with a filter system to protect fish and gravel from suction.

What We Like
Effective aquarium cleaning
Easy to use
Good suction power
Affordable price
Fast gravel cleaning
What We Don't Like
Grip comfort could improve
Feels a bit flimsy
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you use Dawn soap to clean a fish tank?

No, it is not recommended to use Dawn soap or any other soaps or detergents to clean a fish tank. These substances can be harmful to fish. Instead, rinse the tank with warm water and wipe it out with a paper towel if necessary.

2. How do I reduce sludge in my fish tank?

To reduce sludge in your fish tank, it is important to regularly maintain the aquarium. Additionally, you can use a product like Sludge Buster every 2 weeks to break down sludge before it becomes a problem. Controlling feeding and removing any uneaten food, as well as avoiding overstocking the aquarium, can also help prevent sludge buildup.

Editor's Notes

During our aquarium cleaner research, we found 24 aquarium cleaner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 303,332 customer reviews through our big data system to write the aquarium cleaners list. We found that most customers choose aquarium cleaners with an average price of $12.72.

The aquarium cleaners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aquarium cleaners, including Aqueon, Tetra, SLSON, API, enomol. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Janie Foster Avatar

Janie Foster is a writer & pet blogger from Los Angeles, she enjoys living with her two cats and three dogs. She owned her first dog 10 years ago and then started her personal blog to record her dog's daily life. Throughout her personal life, she has developed specialized knowledge in pet care, pet nutrition, feeding habits, and more.

Aquarium Cleaners Comparison Table

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Brand Aqueon Tetra SLSON API enomol Tetra Luigi's Laifoo AQUANEAT QZQ
Item Weight 4.6 ounces 9.5 ounces 0.704 ounces 9.6 ounces 3.64 pounds 1.44 ounces 2.82 ounces 9.6 ounces 1.76 ounces -
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H 7.15 x 4.25 x 2.4 inches 14.25 x 5.67 x 2.4 inches 15.75 x 3.54 x 1.57 inches 8.11 x 1.85 x 1.77 inches 15 x 11.95 x 3.03 inches - - 12.56 x 8.86 x 2.05 inches 15.71 x 3.03 x 1.73 inches -
Brand Name Aqueon Tetra SLSON API enomol - - Laifoo AQUANEAT -
Target Audience Keyword fish fish, Fish fish algae-eaters, bottom-feeder-fish, mollusks, goldfish, octopuses, snails, fish, cichlid-fish, sharks, invertebrate-fish, rays, betta-fish fish - - fish - -
Size Small 55 gallons - 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 30ft - - 5ft 1pc -
Model Name Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Tetra Water Cleaner Gravel Siphon - SAFE & EASY AQ. CLEANER 8 OZ ENOMOL023 - - Aqua - -
Color Black - Blue Black BLACK - - Clear - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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