How to clean the bottom of your aquarium?

If there is one of the difficulties of maintaining an aquarium, it is cleaning the bottom of the aquarium . Indeed, difficult to access , the bottom of the aquarium is a nest of waste and a reservoir of residues and impurities.

Why clean aquarium substrate?

The substrate, whether gravel, sand or rocks, gradually accumulates organic particles, uneaten food remains and other debris. If these impurities are not removed, they can:

• Degrade water quality : The decomposition of organic matter releases nitrates and other unwanted substances that can alter the balance of the aquarium. You can check these parameters using our water analyses .
• Disrupting microbial life : Excess waste can harm colonies of beneficial bacteria, which are essential for the breakdown of pollutants and the stability of the nitrogen cycle. A regular supply of bacteria is important for proper waste breakdown. We offer a wide range of bacteria for seeding your aquarium.
• Promote the proliferation of algae and mold : A poorly maintained substrate can become the place where unwanted microorganisms develop, thus compromising the health of the aquarium inhabitants. In the event of uncontrolled algae proliferation, we recommend the use of an anti-algae for aquariums .

Cleaning frequency

It is generally recommended to clean your freshwater aquarium substrate every two weeks or at the time of a water change, depending on stocking density and the amount of food fed.

Tips and best practices

• Don't disturb the substrate too much : Over-cleaning can destroy beneficial bacteria colonies, so find the right balance to remove waste without disrupting the ecosystem.
• Observe the inhabitants : Monitor the behavior of fish and invertebrates after cleaning. Unusual agitation may indicate stress due to too much disturbance.
• Supplement with regular maintenance : Cleaning the substrate is part of overall maintenance that includes checking water parameters, cleaning the windows and maintaining the filtration system.

To effectively clean the bottom of your aquarium without having to empty the substrate , here are some accessories :

Aquarium vacuum cleaners

Aquarium vacuums are practical devices that effectively clean the bottom of the tank by removing debris, organic waste and food residues accumulated in the substrate. They generally operate using a manual, electric or battery-powered pump system that creates suction to remove impurities without disturbing the soil or vacuuming up the fish. Easy to use, they are particularly useful for maintaining clean water and limiting the accumulation of harmful substances such as nitrates and phosphates. In addition to regular water changes, the vacuum contributes to a healthy and balanced environment for the aquarium inhabitants.

The vase bells

More economical, they allow the suction of residues. Connected to a pipe, the siphoned water must be poured into a bucket.

Vase bells are tools for removing waste accumulated in the substrate without disturbing the aquatic ecosystem. Their use is based on a simple siphoning principle: once immersed in water and primed, the bell sucks up water and impurities while retaining heavier elements such as gravel. This system is particularly effective for removing organic waste, food scraps and fish excrement, thus helping to maintain clean and healthy water. Easy to use, it is used during regular water changes to prevent the accumulation of toxic substances and preserve the biological balance of the tank.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning of the bottom and substrate is essential to maintain a healthy aquarium, whether freshwater or marine. By adopting the right techniques and respecting the specific needs of each type of aquarium, you will help create a stable environment conducive to the well-being of your fish, corals and other aquatic inhabitants. Special attention and appropriate actions will allow you to preserve the natural balance of your aquatic ecosystem, thus guaranteeing its beauty and sustainability in the long term.