Best Aquarium Cleaners of 2026

Janie Foster Avatar
Janie Foster
Last Updated: Jan 30, 2026

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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

hygger 360GPH Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Cover #TOP 1
hygger 360GPH Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Cover #TOP 2
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums Cover #TOP 3
Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Aquarium Cleaners

#TOP 1

hygger 360GPH Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner

VES704
Grey
hygger 360GPH Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Cover
hygger 360GPH Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner, 5 in 1 Automatic Fish Tank Cleaning Tool Set Vacuum Water Changer Sand Washer Filter Siphon Adjustable Length 15W

The hygger Aquarium Gravel Cleaner is a versatile tool designed to make fish tank maintenance easier for you. Its extendable tubes and brush heads allow you to reach every corner of your tank, ensuring thorough cleaning of gravel and hard-to-reach spots. With a powerful 360GPH pump, you can quickly change the water, saving time compared to manual methods, even when water levels are low. The built-in filter traps dirt and debris, returning clean water back to the tank, so you can clean without disturbing your fish too much. Plus, the device is lightweight and easy to operate with a simple on/off switch for your convenience.

What We Like
Strong suction power
Efficient water changes
Easy to clean
Helpful customer support
Reduces tank maintenance time
What We Don't Like
Bulky motor design
Sand can clog unit
#TOP 2

Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets

100106170
Black
Small
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets Cover
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Scraper, Fish Tank Cleaning Magnets for 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 magnet strength
Effective algae removal
Works for glass and acrylic
Compact and intuitive design
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Pad gets dirty quickly
Minor vibration during use
#TOP 3

Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums

AQ-78358
2-55 Gallons
Tetra Water Cleaner for Aquariums Cover
Tetra Water Cleaner Gravel Siphon for Aquariums, Easily Clean Freshwater Aquariums

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 water changes
Strong suction power
Clear vac chamber
Flexible, kink-free tubing
Handy bucket clip
What We Don't Like
Filter quality could improve
Hoses may slip off
#TOP 4

hygger 6-in-1 Aquarium Cleaning Tool Kit

WYE3ZH4X1782
1 Count (Pack of 1)
hygger 6-in-1 Aquarium Cleaning Tool Kit Cover
hygger Carbon Fiber 6 in 1 Aquarium Cleaning Tool Kit Al-gae Scraper Scrubber Pad Sponge Telescopic Handle Fish Tank Brush Cleaner Set for Saltwater Freshwater

The hygger Carbon Fiber 6 in 1 Aquarium Cleaning Tool Kit includes a telescopic handle, gravel rake, metal blade, flat sponge cleaner, right-angle sponge, tube brush and fish net, all designed to help keep your tank clean and neat without getting your hands wet. The stainless steel scraper attachment is perfect for cleaning tough algae, the telescopic handle extends from 19.7 to 35.4 inches, and the attachments sit tightly and securely on the rod.

What We Like
Sturdy, telescopic handle
Multiple useful attachments
High-quality materials
Efficient algae scraper
Organized storage bag
What We Don't Like
Scrubbing pad less effective
Attachments can be hard to change
#TOP 5

DaToo Mini Magnetic Aquarium Scrubber

Nano
DaToo Mini Magnetic Aquarium Scrubber Cover
DaToo Aquarium Mini Magnetic Scrubber Scraper Small Fish Tank Cleaner Nano Glass Aquarium Cleaning Tools with Super Strong Magnet

The DaToo Mini Aquarium Cleaner offers a powerful and easy way to keep your fish tank spotless. Its strong magnetic design means you can clean your aquarium glass from the outside, saving you time and keeping your hands dry. The cleaner features a dual-sided pad: one side soft and gentle for daily dust, and the other side abrasive for tougher stains, making it versatile for all cleaning needs. Built with a durable ABS shell and a high-strength magnet, this tool works well for both freshwater and saltwater tanks, ensuring long-lasting performance without losing its magnetic power.

What We Like
Strong magnet grip
Easy to maneuver
Does not scratch glass
Keeps hands dry
Effective algae removal
What We Don't Like
Minor vibration during use
May detach near tank edge
#TOP 6

QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Vacuum Fish Tank Cleaner

QZQ
QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Vacuum Fish Tank Cleaner Cover
QZQ Aquarium Gravel Cleaner [2025 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
Easy to use
Strong suction power
Useful accessories included
Reaches tank corners
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Some parts feel lightweight
Instructions could be clearer
#TOP 7

AQQA Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner

AQQA Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner Cover
AQQA Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner, 6 in 1 Automatic Fish Tank Cleaning Tools Gravel Vacuum for Aquarium, Suitable for Change Water Wash Sand Water Filter and Water Circulation (320GPH, 20W)

AQQA Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner comes with a 320GPH powerful flow water pump motor and 6 in 1 functional cleaning tools to achieve water changing, sand washing, debris cleaning, scrubbing the fish tank, water filtration, and circulation. The new upgrade filter cup can effectively filter fish poop and food residues. The kit is easy to install and disassemble without additional tools, and the adjustable handle length is suitable for 23''-40'' tanks.

What We Like
Strong suction power
Multiple attachments included
Easy water changes
Time-saving design
Versatile 6-in-1 functions
What We Don't Like
Occasional clogging with sand
Some assembly or quality issues
#TOP 8

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
Quick water changes
Easy to use
Reduces mess and labor
Durable metal connectors
Ideal for large tanks
What We Don't Like
Draining speed could improve
Suction weaker than expected
#TOP 9

enomol HVDI Aquarium Gravel Vacuum Water Changer

ENOMOL023
BLACK
50ft
enomol HVDI Aquarium Gravel Vacuum Water Changer Cover
enomol Gravel Vacuum for Aquarium Water Changer Fish Tank Cleaning Tools,Siphon Universal Quick Pump Aquarium Water Changing (50ft)

The enomol Gravel Vacuum Pump makes aquarium maintenance easier and faster for you. It uses just two valves and a long hose to quickly change water in medium to large fish tanks, saving you time and effort. You won’t need buckets or worry about spills because the water drains smoothly using your tap water’s pressure, and refilling is simple with a valve switch. The 16.5-inch cleaning tube helps you gently stir and clean gravel without disturbing your fish or making noise. Plus, it fits most faucet types with included adapters, so you can easily connect it to your home setup.

What We Like
Quick and easy cleaning
Reduces manual labor
Durable and well-made
Ideal for large aquariums
Eliminates need for buckets
What We Don't Like
Limited adapter compatibility
Occasionally slow suction
#TOP 10

hygger Aquarium Algae Magnet Cleaner

HG815-M
Natural
1 Count (Pack of 1)
hygger Aquarium Algae Magnet Cleaner Cover
hygger Aquarium Strong Magnetic Cleaner Algae Magnet Cleaning Tool with Scraper Floating Brush for Fish Glass Tank M

The hygger Aquarium Strong Magnetic Cleaner is a powerful cleaning tool that is designed for glass tanks up to 3/8" - 3/5" thickness, ranging from 55 gallon to 150 gallon aquariums. It has a strong magnet cleaner that sticks tightly on the glass, a smooth, curved wood-like finish grip that is comfortable and visually appealing, and a float design that allows the internal cleaner to float on the surface of the aquarium for easy retrieval. Additionally, it comes with two blades, one made of metal and the other of plastic, for effective and effortless cleaning. Please note that this cleaner is not suitable for acrylic tanks.

What We Like
Very strong magnet
Effective algae removal
Floating design
Multiple scraper attachments
Durable construction
What We Don't Like
Limited scraper blade supply
Minor cleaning issues with bacteria
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 183,493 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 $12.78.

The aquarium cleaners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of aquarium cleaners, including hygger, Aqueon, Tetra, DaToo, QZQ. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 349 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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 hygger Aqueon Tetra hygger DaToo QZQ AQQA enomol enomol hygger
Item Weight 2.88 pounds 4.6 ounces 9.5 ounces - 2.39 ounces 1.1 pounds 2.35 pounds 3.7 pounds 5.39 pounds 14.4 ounces
Item Package Dimensions L x W x H 10.16 x 8.46 x 6.81 inches 7.15 x 4.25 x 2.4 inches 14.25 x 5.67 x 2.4 inches - 3.39 x 2.56 x 0.87 inches 16.3 x 6.38 x 2.83 inches 17.52 x 7.83 x 3.7 inches 15 x 12 x 3 inches 14.92 x 11.93 x 4.29 inches 9.02 x 6.42 x 2.17 inches
Brand Name hygger Aqueon Tetra - DaToo QZQ AQQA enomol enomol hygger
Target Audience Keyword fish fish Fish, fish - fish fish, fish tank fish fish fish fish
Size - Small 2-55 Gallons - Nano - 6-in-1 Aquarium Gravel Cleaner 30ft 50ft 1 Count (Pack of 1)
Color Grey Black - - - - - BLACK BLACK Natural
Directions - The bottom-weighted scrubber falls straight down after separation. The bowed bottom weight allows the scrub pad to rest above the gravel for easy retrieval while reducing the risk of scratching the aquarium walls. No need to throw out the entire magnet cleaner when pads become worn down. Simply click a new pad on to the magnet for quick and easy replacement. For either glass or acrylic aquarium use. See label for details - - - - adults adults Aquarium
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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