How To Clean a Betta Fish Tank For Beginners

Cleaning your betta fish tank is crucial for maintaining your fish’s health and happiness. This step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know—from prepping your betta’s temporary home to safely reintroducing them to their clean tank.

Click here for my favorite betta tank cleaning kit

Step-by-Step Betta Tank Cleaning

Step 1: Prepare the Temporary Home

Fill a container with dechlorinated water that matches the tank temperature. Use a net or cup to gently transfer your betta to this temporary home.

Step 2: Remove a Portion of the Water

Scoop out 25-50% of the current tank water and pour it into a clean bucket. You’ll reuse some of this water to help your betta acclimate.

Step 3: Unplug Equipment

For safety, turn off and unplug any filters, heaters, and lights before proceeding.

Step 4: Remove Decorations and Plants

Take out any tank decor or live/artificial plants. Rinse them in some of the removed tank water or fresh dechlorinated water.

Step 5: Vacuum the Gravel

Use a gravel vacuum to clean the tank substrate. Work in sections to remove uneaten food, waste, and debris.

Step 6: Clean the Glass

Scrape off algae using an algae scraper. Wipe down the tank’s interior with a soft cloth or sponge soaked in old tank water.

Step 7: Reassemble and Refill

Return the decorations and plants to the tank. Slowly refill with dechlorinated water, ensuring the temperature matches the original water.

Step 8: Acclimate and Return Your Betta

Allow the new water to reach room temperature (72-80°F). Acclimate your betta by gradually mixing some of the new water into the temporary container. Then gently net and transfer your betta back into the tank.

Step 9: Reconnect Equipment

Plug in and restart your filter and heater. Monitor the temperature and water conditions to ensure a smooth transition.

Why a Clean Tank is Important

• Prevents Disease: Waste and uneaten food break down into harmful ammonia and nitrites.
• Promotes Well-Being: Clean water boosts coloration, behavior, and immune health.
• Reduces Algae: Consistent cleaning controls unsightly algae buildup.

Essential Supplies for Betta Tank Cleaning

• Temporary Container: Clean, fish-safe bowl or tub
• Water Conditioner: Neutralizes chlorine and chloramines
• Bucket: Used only for aquarium maintenance
• Gravel Vacuum: Removes debris from substrate
• Algae Scraper: For removing algae buildup
• Soft Cloth or Sponge: For wiping interior glass
• Paper Towels: For cleaning up drips and spills

How Often Should You Clean a Betta Fish Tank?

• Small Tanks (<5 gallons): Once per week
• Larger Tanks (5+ gallons): Every 1–2 weeks
• Unfiltered Tanks: Multiple times weekly

Extra Betta Tank Cleaning Tips

• Never Use Soap: Soap is toxic to fish—use only clean, dechlorinated water.
• Match Water Temperature: Sudden changes can shock your fish.
• Quarantine New Items: Rinse new decorations before adding them.
• Always Use Conditioner: Vital for removing harmful chemicals.
• Maintain Neutral pH: Aim for 7.0; test before reintroducing your betta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Click here for the secrets to simple, happy betta fish care…

How often should I clean my betta tank?

Small tanks need weekly cleaning; larger tanks may only need it every 1–2 weeks if filtered.

Can I use some kind of soap to clean the tank?

No. Soap can leave behind residues that are lethal to fish.

Do I need to remove my betta while cleaning?

Yes. It’s safer for your betta to stay in a temporary home during cleaning.

What’s the safest way to reintroduce my betta?

Acclimate them slowly to the new water by mixing it with their temporary water before transferring.