10 Best Fish To Keep Tanks Clean [2025]
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Finding the best fish to keep tanks clean can be a challenging task, especially with the numerous options available and the specific needs of each aquarium setup. To simplify your search, we have meticulously shortlisted 10 products based on their effectiveness, compatibility, and ease of care, ensuring that you make an informed choice without the hassle of extensive research. Our curated list is designed to save you time and effort, allowing you to maintain a cleaner and healthier tank with the right aquatic companions.
Top 10 Fish To Keep Tanks Clean In The Market
Fish To Keep Tanks Clean Review
- Quickly clears up cloudy water
- Safe for all freshwater fish and plants
- After aquarium has cleared, replace the filter cartridge to maintain clear water
- After use, wait at least 24 hours, then perform a partial water change to remove any settled particles from the aquarium bottom
- For optimal results, be sure to follow routine water care maintenance
- Contains one (1) API ACCU-CLEAR Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier 4-Ounce Bottle
- Clears cloudy aquarium water
- Clumps floating particles into large clusters that can be easily removed by an aquarium filter
- Works fast and maximizes filter efficiency
- Use weekly and when cloudy water is observed in freshwater aquariums only
- TETRA WATER CLEANER: Gravel siphon used to easily clean aquariums.
- COMPATIBLE AQUARIUM SIZE: For aquariums up to 55 gallons.
- MAKES MONTHLY WATER CHANGES EASY: It only takes 30 minutes to replace 30% of water every 30 days.
- REMOVE DEBRIS: Siphons are a great way to easily remove debris from gravel by moving the water cleaner throughout the gravel.
- INCLUDED: Tetra Water Cleaner comes with gravel siphon, priming bulb and clip for bucket for a simple set up.
- Contains one (1) API GOLDFISH AQUARIUM CLEANER Aquarium Cleaner 4-Ounce Bottle
- Keeps goldfish aquariums clean and reduces maintenance
- Consumes sludge to help keep gravel and decorations clean
- Adds beneficial bacteria for a healthy aquarium
- Use weekly
- Magnet makes it easy to clean the inside of the aquariums from the outside
- Scrubber falls straight down if separated from magnet for easy retrieval
- Curved pad cleans flat and curved surfaces
- Weighted scrubber will not float away
- Can be used on glass or acrylic aquariums
- FUNCTION --- Easy to control, convenient to siphon fish faeces, impurities, turbid water out of fish tank.
- 5 Feet HOSE --- Made from clear & elastic plastic. Makes it more durable and anti-kinking. Harmless to fishes & No peculiar smell.
- GRAVEL TUBE --- Sinkable, with a detachable filter screen inside. Will not disturb fish or decor when it's working.
- SIPHON BALL --- All you need to do is to pinch it several times, water will flow out automatically. Without striking a blowing.
- WARRANTY --- For 3 months after the date of purchase, we take care of all quality-related issues with a FREE replacement or refund. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact our professional after-sale service.
- PERFECT FOR REGULAR WATER CHANGES - No messy drips, and a sturdy one way valve to improve suction. You can clear 30L in about 5 minutes
- KEEP YOUR AQUARIUM CLEAN - Filter through the gravel using the attachment to suck up food, fish waste and toxins that build up in your tank
- FISH & INVERTEBRATE SAFE - Designed with an attached filter to protect your aquatic life, this cleaner prevents small fish, shrimp, and other invertebrates from being accidentally sucked up during cleaning.
- GREAT VALUE - A lot of fish accessories are overpriced. This simple, robust product does the job of a much more expensive siphon at a fraction of the cost
- HASSLE-FREE CLEANING - Equipped with a convenient hand pump, this fish tank cleaner requires no manual priming—just pump and go! Enjoy quick, effortless water changes and a crystal-clear tank with minimal effort.
- HIGH QUALITY BRUSH:the aquarium brush made of high quality sponge,it could remove the alge quickly and effectively,keep your fish tank inhabitants a clean environment.
- NON SLIP HANDLE: the brush handle made of premium plastic,sturdy and durable,with non slip handle surface,make this clean work more easily.
- EASY TO STORE:designed with a hole on the end of the handle,more convenient for you to hanging and store,keep the brush head dry and use for long time.
- CONVENIENT USED:this algae scraper brush suitable for glass fish tank, a great assistant tool for your aquariums. BUT not sutiable for Acrylic fish tank, and plastic fish tank.
- PLEASE NOTE:please rinse the brush pad with tap water before and after each use, keep the brush head clean and dry before store.
- The aquarium brush made of high quality sponge, could remove the algae quickly and effectively, keep your fish tank a clean environment
- The brush handle made of premium plastic, sturdy and durable, with non-slip handle surface, make this clean work more easily
- Designed with a hole on the end of the handle, more convenient for you to hanging and store
- This algae scraper brush suitable for glass fish tank but not suitable for acrylic and plastic fish tank
- Dimension of sponge:3”x2.5”; Length of handle:12.5”
- 5-in-1 cleaning tool kit helps to keep tank neat and clean without getting hands wet. Made the cleaning work more easily
- Telescopic handle can extend to 32.5 inch which is long enough to clean up deep tank
- Aquarium cleaning tool kit includes a telescoping handle, 1 fish net, 1 metal blade, 1 gravel rake, 1 flat sponge cleaner, 1 plant fork
- Stainless steel scraper attachment for cleaning tough stuff, gravel rake for raking and cleaning gravel, flat sponge for substrate and glass cleaning
- 5 attachments are easy to swap in and out. Convenient to change different heads for cleaning
Our Review Process
To ensure you get reliable product recommendations, we follow a detailed review methodology that includes:
- Market Research: Scanning best-selling and trending products in this category.
- User Feedback: Reviewing customer reviews, star ratings, and complaints.
- Hands-On Testing: Trying select products ourselves when feasible.
- Feature Comparison: Evaluating specs, durability, pricing, and safety.
- Expert Opinions: Consulting with niche experts or credible reviewers.
We independently select the top 10 options based on value, quality, and usability. To learn more, visit our detailed review process.
Key Considerations Before Buying a Fish to Keep Tanks Clean
When it comes to maintaining a clean aquarium, choosing the right fish can play a significant role. Certain fish are known for their ability to help keep tanks clean by consuming algae and detritus. However, there are several key factors to consider before adding these fish to your tank.
1. Tank Size
Before selecting any fish, consider the size of your aquarium. Some algae-eating fish, like Plecos, require larger spaces to thrive. Overcrowding can lead to stress, poor health, and inefficient algae control.
2. Compatibility with Other Fish
It’s essential to assess how well a cleaning fish will coexist with the other inhabitants of your tank. Some species may be territorial or aggressive, which can disrupt the tank’s ecosystem. Research compatibility among fish species to ensure a peaceful environment.
3. Diet and Feeding Habits
While cleaning fish can help manage algae, they may still require supplemental feeding. Understanding their dietary needs is crucial for their health. Make sure to provide a balanced diet alongside their algae-cleaning role to prevent malnutrition.
4. Water Parameters
Different fish species have varying requirements when it comes to water temperature, pH, and hardness. Before purchasing a fish, ensure that your tank setup aligns with their needs. A mismatch in water parameters can lead to stress and health issues for the fish.
5. Lifespan and Growth Potential
Research the expected lifespan and growth potential of the cleaning fish. Some species can grow significantly larger than expected, necessitating a larger tank or adjustments in your current setup. Make sure you are prepared for the long-term commitment.
6. Maintenance and Care Requirements
Consider the level of care required for the cleaning fish. Some species may be more sensitive to water quality and require frequent monitoring. Assess your ability to provide the necessary maintenance before making a decision.
7. Availability and Cost
Check the availability and cost of the fish you are considering. Some cleaning fish may be more commonly found in local pet stores, while others might be harder to find or more expensive. Budget accordingly and ensure that you can find healthy specimens.
8. Environmental Impact
Consider the source of the fish. Wild-caught species may have a greater environmental impact compared to captive-bred options. Opting for sustainably sourced fish can contribute to the health of aquatic ecosystems.
9. Behavior and Activity Level
Understanding the behavior of the cleaning fish is crucial for maintaining a harmonious aquarium. Some species are more active and social, while others are shy and solitary. Choose a fish that fits well with your tank’s environment and the activity level of other residents.
FAQs
What types of fish are best for keeping tanks clean?
Fish that are known for their tank-cleaning abilities include bottom feeders like catfish, particularly the Corydoras and Plecostomus species. Other good options are algae eaters such as Siamese algae eaters and certain types of snails, like Nerite snails, which can help control algae growth.
How do fish help keep tanks clean?
Fish contribute to tank cleanliness by eating algae, leftover food, and detritus on the substrate. Bottom feeders and algae eaters can help maintain the balance of the aquarium by consuming waste and preventing the buildup of harmful substances.
Can I rely solely on fish to keep my tank clean?
While certain fish can help maintain cleanliness, they should not be your only means of tank maintenance. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and routine cleaning are essential for a healthy aquarium environment. Fish should be part of a comprehensive cleaning strategy.
How many cleaning fish should I have in my tank?
The number of cleaning fish depends on the size of your tank and the bioload it can support. A general rule is to have one cleaning fish for every 10 gallons of water, but it’s crucial to research the specific needs and compatibility of the fish species you choose.
Are there any fish that are not good for keeping tanks clean?
Some fish, like goldfish, can produce a lot of waste and may not be effective at cleaning. Others, such as certain types of cichlids, may disturb the substrate rather than help keep it clean. It’s essential to choose fish that are known for their cleaning abilities and are compatible with your tank’s ecosystem.
Do cleaning fish require special care?
Yes, cleaning fish have specific care requirements, including water temperature, pH levels, and diet. Ensure you research the needs of the specific species you choose to keep to ensure they remain healthy and effective at maintaining tank cleanliness.
Can I add cleaning fish to a new tank?
It’s generally not advisable to add cleaning fish to a brand-new tank immediately. New tanks often undergo a cycling process that can produce harmful ammonia levels. Wait until the tank has established beneficial bacteria and stable water parameters before introducing cleaning fish.
How often should I clean my tank if I have cleaning fish?
Even with cleaning fish, you should perform regular maintenance, which includes partial water changes every 1-2 weeks, cleaning the substrate, and checking the filter. Cleaning fish can reduce the frequency of maintenance but should not eliminate it altogether.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, maintaining a clean and healthy aquarium is essential for the well-being of your fish and the overall aesthetic of your tank. The ten fish species highlighted in this article have been carefully selected based on their natural cleaning abilities, compatibility with various tank setups, and ease of care. By incorporating these fish into your aquarium, you can significantly reduce algae growth, control waste levels, and promote a balanced ecosystem. Each fish on our list has its unique strengths, making them valuable additions to both novice and experienced aquarists alike.
We chose these ten products by considering expert recommendations, user reviews, and scientific studies on fish behavior and tank maintenance. By following our list, you can create a thriving aquatic environment that requires less manual cleaning and maintenance. Ultimately, implementing these fish into your tank not only enhances its cleanliness but also adds to the beauty and diversity of your underwater world. With the right selection and care, your aquarium can flourish, providing a stunning display and a healthy habitat for your aquatic companions.
