How To Clean Plastic Aquarium Plants Safely & Without Bleach

Just like other aquarium ornaments, fake plants need to be cleaned periodically. Cleaning is not just about removing grime but also killing algae, keeping your tank looking clean and pleasant for your fish. Let's explore how to clean fake aquarium plants to ensure your tank is a happy and healthy home for your aquatic friends!

Add Aquatic Janitors 

Introducing natural algae eaters is one of the things you learn in aquarium landscaping for beginners. These helpful creatures can assist in keeping algae growth under control, reducing the need for frequent manual cleaning. Some excellent aquatic janitors include:

• Otocinclus Catfish
• Amano Shrimp
• Nerite Snails
• Mystery Snails
• Bristlenose Plecos

Chemical Cleaning

Sometimes, extra help is needed to tackle stubborn algae or grime. There are various aquarium-safe cleaning solutions available that can be introduced directly into planted aquariums and fish tanks without harming their inhabitants. These solutions can effectively break down algae and biofilm, making it easier to remove during manual cleaning.

Manual Cleaning

Manual cleaning is often sufficient for regular maintenance and light cleaning. It's a simple and effective way to remove accumulated debris or algae from your plastic plants. This typically involves using some sort of cleaning solution and scrubbing the plant before returning it to the aquarium.

Salt Water Soaking

Salt is another safe and effective algae killer as it creates a hypertonic environment that dehydrates and kills algae cells. Here’s a breakdown of how to clean fake aquarium plants with salt:

1. Prepare the salt solution: Heat water on the stove until it's too hot to touch, then add salt until it no longer dissolves. Allow the solution to cool until it's warm but touchable.
2. Soak the plants: Submerge the plastic plants and other aquarium decorations in the salt solution.
3. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse everything with clean water to remove any salt residue.
4. Dry and return: Allow the plants to air dry completely before returning them to the aquarium.

Using Bleach

While bleach is an effective cleaning solution, it should be used with caution and only when absolutely necessary, as even trace amounts can harm your fish. It is best reserved for heavily soiled or algae-infested plants that cannot be effectively cleaned with other methods.

Here are the steps for cleaning plastic aquarium plants with bleach:

1. Prepare a bleach solution: Mix 1 part bleach with 19 parts water in a well-ventilated area.
2. Soak the plants: Submerge the plants in the bleach solution for no more than 10-15 minutes.
3. Neutralise the bleach: Prepare a dechlorinating solution using a commercially available dechlorinator. Soak the plants in this solution for at least 30 minutes to neutralise residual bleach.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the plants multiple times with clean water to remove all bleach and dechlorinator traces.
5. Air dry: Allow the plants to dry completely in a well-ventilated area before returning them to the aquarium.

Using Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural and generally non-toxic cleaner that can remove light algae and biofilm from plastic plants. Its acidity helps break down these organic growths, making them easier to dislodge.

Here’s how you can clean plastic aquarium plants without bleach:

1. Prepare a vinegar solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a container.
2. Soak the plants: Let the plants sit in the solution for 30 minutes to an hour.
3. Scrub gently: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub any remaining algae or biofilm.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the plants with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.
5. Dry and return: Allow the plants to air dry completely before placing them back in the aquarium.

Using Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is generally a safer alternative to bleach for cleaning plastic aquarium plants. It's a powerful oxidiser that breaks down algae, making it easier to remove. It's safe to use directly in an aquarium at the correct dosage, which is no more than 1.5 millilitres per gallon of tank water. So, be sure to double-check your measurements before using it!

Here’s a breakdown of how to use hydrogen peroxide to safely clean your plastic aquarium plants:

1. Remove the plants: Take them out of the aquarium and place them in a clean container.
2. Prepare the peroxide solution: Mix a solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide with water, following the recommended dosage on the product label.
3. Soak the plants: Submerge the plants in the peroxide solution for a few minutes.
4. Scrub gently (if needed): If any algae remain, gently scrub them with a soft-bristled brush.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the plants thoroughly with clean water to remove any peroxide residue.
6. Return to the aquarium: Place the clean plants back in your tank and enjoy the refreshed look!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Fake Aquarium Plants

Why are my plastic aquarium plants turning brown?

Plastic aquarium plants can turn brown due to algae growth, which thrives in environments with light and nutrients. It’s also possible that the brown discolouration is caused by mineral deposits from hard water or tannins released by driftwood. Learning how to clean plastic aquarium plants will help keep your tank water clear.

How to sanitise new aquarium plants?

Before introducing new aquarium plants, it’s crucial to sanitise them to prevent the introduction of pests, diseases, or unwanted algae into your tank. Some people soak them in a mild bleach solution for 10-15 minutes before thoroughly rinsing them in clean water. However, some people prefer to use a commercially available plant sterilising solution.

Why do my aquarium plants look dirty?

Aquarium plants, whether live or plastic, can accumulate debris, algae, and other organic matter over time, making them appear dirty. In the case of plastic plants, this can be due to neglect in cleaning or the presence of algae in the tank. Regular maintenance and learning how to safely clean plastic aquarium plants effectively will help keep them looking vibrant and healthy.

How to clean plastic aquarium plants without bleach?

If you prefer to avoid using bleach, there are alternative ways to clean fake aquarium plants. Soaking them in a solution of white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) for 30 minutes can help remove algae and mineral deposits. You can also scrub them gently with a soft-bristled brush or use a dedicated aquarium plant cleaner.

How do I choose the right aquatic janitor to add to my fish tank? 

Selecting the right aquatic janitor depends on the specific needs of your aquarium and the type of algae or debris you want to control. You should consider the compatibility of the janitor with your existing fish and plants, as well as their specific cleaning preferences. Researching different species and their care requirements will help you make an informed decision.