How Often Do You Clean A Betta Fish Tank? [2024 Updated]

Betta Fish are perhaps among the most simple creatures that you can keep as your pet.

They need minimal effort to clean and feed.

Although the fish is able to reside in almost any size container, it’s a good idea to place them in an ordinary-sized bowl, at the minimum.

The cleaning of your aquarium will be contingent on its size, even in the quantity of fish you feed them daily and how much they eat and excrete.

It’s also dependent on whether you’ve included live plants in the aquarium or not.

Cleaning a Betta Fish Aquarium In 2024

Betta fish may be small however, they require an enormous amount of attention. If you plan to keep this kind of fish, it is essential to know how to clean your betta aquarium.

Even with the best filter for your aquarium filter, betta tanks can be suffocated by nitrates and other toxic substances if you do not take care to clean them and change their water frequently which could be fatal.

Read on to find out all the steps required to clean the betta aquarium, and other useful information to ensure that the process goes efficiently.

How Often Do You Clean a Betta Fish Tank?

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How often do you clean a betta fish tank? This is a frequent question for a new owner of Betta Fish.

If you don’t have living plants feed just 4 to 5 pellets a day. If you have the capacity of a large or regular-sized container, you will not need to wash the tank once every two weeks.

When you clean it, you must ensure that you thoroughly clean all bowl contents.

Clean up any debris that has accumulated in the gravel or rocks you are using.

If you’re thinking of changing your water, make sure that you change 30% to 40% of it.

It is contingent on the dimensions of your tank and the arrangement. It is not recommended to keep the betta aquarium fish smaller in size than 5 gallons, but larger is more beneficial. Anything in the range of 15-20 gallons, such as the Tetra ColorFusion Aquarium is the ideal size for an individual betta fish as well as a few other tankmates.

The primary benefit of having an extra-large tank lies in the fact that it offers the environment more nutrients for your fish, however, it also has the benefit of less frequent cleaning. Cleaning is required for the 5-gallon tank weekly, while the bigger 15- or 20-gallon tank requires cleaning only at least once per month or once every two months.

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Should You Clean The Filter at the Same Time as the Fish Tank?

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Your betta tank requires an aquarium filter that is, for instance, one like the Tetra Whisper IQ Power Filter however, you shouldn’t clean or change the filter simultaneously when cleaning your aquarium and changing the water.

Filters are brimming with beneficial bacteria colonies that help to create a healthy ecosystem for your tank So, you should change them in the same manner since the water could cause havoc.

If you’re using filtering equipment, such as a filter that isn’t working, it should presume that there are extra fish in your tank, since betta fish don’t need the use of a filter. Additionally, extra fish can mean an additional waste product, the addition of additional things inside the tanks as well as the possibility of more algae.

A good filter will reduce the amount of cleaning you must do However, you should take it to the cleaners at least once every week if it is possible.

It is also recommended to set up a schedule that will see it is your job to vacuum your gravel, scrape clean the algae, and replace your filter every week.

The care you give to the needs of Betta can be a challenge however it doesn’t have to be.

In general, with non-filter tanks, you’ll need to be required to complete a very thorough job of cleaning.

If you do have a filter and you do the above items every week, you will not need to conduct a full and lasting clean, however, perhaps once a month.

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How Often Should You Clean Betta Tank Water Without a Filter?

If you don’t have a filter You could manage to clean the tank twice a week or that, but it needs to be a thorough cleaning and not something you can quickly do before you get off your work boots and hit your Netflix option on the Roku.

If you have a large number of things in your tank to ensure that your Betta offers a little diversity, then cleaning is recommended once a week, which is a thorough cleaning. The more items are in the tank including extra plants and fish tank items that are three-dimensional, the dirtier the tank becomes.

The buildup of algae is more prevalent when you have a tank that is not filtered in addition to the volume of byproducts and waste that result from your Betta fish, as well as the food you throw in your tank on a regular basis.

Preparing to Clean Your Betta Tank

Wash Your Hands and Put On Gloves

Before you begin cleansing your betta tank make sure you wash your hands thoroughly then put on your pair of disposable gloves. This helps protect you from any germs in the tank and also protects the tank from germs or bacteria that may be on your hands.

Prepare Fresh Water

Tap water is awash with chlorine, as well as other chemicals that are harmful to fish, which is why you must prepare the water that is clean you are going to add to your aquarium in advance.

Make sure you fill a bucket that is clean with enough water to cover the area you’ll need. Add a commercial aquarium water conditioner according to the instructions on the package.

Alternatively, you could let the water remain in the open air for 24-48 hours, which is sufficient time for the undesirable contaminants to dissolve.

Turn Everything Off

Your betta aquarium should include a filter along with a heating system. Make sure to turn them off before you begin cleaning, along with other electrical devices like lights and bubblers.

There are some things to consider prior to beginning the process of cleaning your water.

By following these steps, you can make sure that the betta fish lives a long, healthy, and happy life.

Cleaning Your Betta Fish Tank (Step-by-step guide)

How often do you clean a betta fish tank with a filter and without a filter
How often do you clean a betta fish tank with a filter and without a filter?

1. Have Your Water Ready Before Changing

Before you begin cleaning or even changing your water, ensure that you have your new water prepared.

The reason is that betta fish that drink unconditioned tap water can be dangerous in the betta.

It is done by pouring the quantity of water you’ll require into a container, and then applying a betta water conditioner in order to remove all the harmful chemicals and minerals.

When you begin cleaning the tank, be sure your hands of your thoroughly cleaned so that you don’t spill any harmful substances behind.

Make sure the temperature is close to the same temperature as the previous water so that you don’t strain the betta.

2. Remove Algae

Make use of the algae scraper to remove any algae you observe growing within the tank. There are various types of algae scrapers suitable for acrylic and glass tanks. acrylic tanks, so choose carefully to avoid damaging or scratching the aquarium.

3. Remove Your Fish From The Tank

Before pouring the water out of the tank it is important to store the betta fish in a secure area.

The best way to go about it is to get the tank water in a container and then move the betta fish to the water.

Utilizing the water from the tank before is a sure way to ensure that your fish are in a secure environment.

4. Clean Gravel and Siphon Water

Make use of the gravel vacuum or gravel siphon to wash the gravel the substrate of your betta aquarium for fish.

Food particles and waste from fish could settle in the substrate and can breed bacteria, so it’s crucial that you wash it.

It siphons off clean gravel and siphons off water in the process at the same time. You’re performing two jobs simultaneously cleaning the substrate and taking away the water will be replaced with clean prepared water.

In the case of a betta tank that holds 10-20 gallons, you should strive to get rid of 10-20% of the volume of water within the tank. For the smaller 5-gallon tanks, you may have to take away more than 30-40% since more waste is accumulating in a smaller size.

5. Remove and Clean Tank Ornaments

Remove all decorations including hiding places as well as plants and gravel out of the bowl and remove them in a separate manner.

Cleaning and removing them makes it easier to dispose of all the garbage within the tank.

It is not necessary to wash ornaments each when cleaning your betta fish tank, however, be aware of algae growth and wash them as needed.

Take ornaments off the fish tank gradually and slowly to ensure that you don’t strain your fish. Clean each with boiling water, and then a fresh toothbrush. Do not use soap or other cleaning products since they can cause harm to fish.

After everything is cleaned put it away and scrub the bowl.

You could also put everything in one big bowl and wash it in one to make it easier.

6. Take Out The Tank Water

Based on the proportion of tank water that you wish to change, get the amount of water and put it in a safe place so that you can put it back into the tank after you’re done cleaning the walls and decorating.

7. Take Out The Leftover Water

Once you have emptied away the quantity of water you wish to keep and refill the tank, you are able to empty the rest of the water into the drain.

Be sure to take your time to ensure that the gravel isn’t sucked out of the water.

If you’d like to do it faster, you can employ a sieve to collect your gravel (pour the liquid through the strainer).

Then, you can take out the entire gravel inside the container along with the remaining decorations.

8. Clean Out The Accessories

Clean out the container that contains all decorations along with accessories and wash them with warm water.

Use soft cloths or brushes to scrub out any residue that may be on the floors.

Don’t use detergent or soap for the aquarium or accessories since it may leave traces behind that could be harmful to your betta.

Once you’ve finished, place them on a clean towel or paper towel to ensure that the water will dry off.

9. Clean The Aquarium

There will be a need to wash the tank. The most effective method to do this is to run it through warm water and then scrub the walls with a sponge or sponge.

Every bit of scrum and dirt within will be removed, and you’ll have an all-new, clean container.

Make sure you reach the corners and avoid using any soap.

Rinse it off with water, making sure that no debris remains.

10. Refill The Tank

Then slowly refill the tank with the water that you made earlier. It should be left in the tank long enough for the water to cool down to temperatures that are comfortable, but if you’re performing a massive water change, make sure to slowly heat it up until it’s at the exact temperature of the other water inside the tank. This is about 75-80 degrees for betta fish.

11. Turn Everything Back On

After the tank is clean and filled in fresh, clean water you’ll be required to put the gravel back in the tank. It’s now time to turn on your filter or heater as well as other electronic items back where they used to be.

Once you’re done you can put your old water back into it.

Re-injecting the water from before to the water that was used is vital since it is a source of beneficial bacteria to break down the nutrients.

A sudden and total alteration to the water’s composition could put the betta fish reeling and can even cause death.

The water should be poured slowly, to ensure that you don’t disrupt the settings inside the bowl.

Then, pour in the freshwater you intend to make use of.

Mix it up a bit and you’re done! The job is now done.

12. Put Your Fish Back In

Then, everything is in place, and you are able to put the betta fish back in the tank.

Remove the bowl you have the betta fish in, place it into the tank, and tilt it, letting it let the betta fish swim in its own way in the water tank.

Be sure to ensure that the fish doesn’t end up damaging its fins.

What Things Do You Need to Buy for Cleaning a Betta Fish Tank

API Algae Scraper

This is used to wash algae off the interior of aquariums This is an essential item to clean your betta aquarium. It is recommended to use it only on glass, and not on another surface.

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Python Pro-Clean Gravel Washer and Siphon Kit

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LEAKTITE 500 5-Quart Plastic Pail

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API Tap Water Conditioner

This is a water conditioning device that neutralizes chlorine as well as other chemicals that are present in tap water that can be harmful to fish, making it safe to use as soon as possible. It is recommended to use it every time you add fish or water to the aquarium.

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FAQs

How Often Should I Clean My Betta’s Tank Water?

What is the frequency you clean your betta tank? If you have a normal tank, one that is filled with rocks, plants, or other things, you need to cleanse your tank at least once a week. If you have a tank with your betta fish, however, with no other plants and just two or three objects that you want to wash, do so every two weeks.

Do Bettas Like a Clean Tank?

Yes, bettas like a clean tank. If you have a 19-liter betta aquarium with only one betta fish and filter the only requirement is to provide it with a thorough cleaning each 6 to 8 months. A few aquariums that are planted that have a great filter and a well-balanced ecosystem that includes ‘clean-up tank mates can endure for years without a cleaning.

Why Does My Betta Fish Tank Get Dirty So Frequently?

The most typical reason is due to decaying food and waste. Another source is from the water that you’re using itself. If you believe this might be the case, it’s worth examining the water. If it’s true, you could also purchase the water in bottles specifically made intended for betta tanks.

Do Betta Fish Need a Filter?

Although they do not require a filter, the absence of one can make your work much more strenuous because you’ll need to perform regular and thorough cleaning. With the help of a filter, you and your Betta will be happier.

Should I Do a Water Change After Adding New Fish?

Perform the 25% water change after 15 days. Be sure to clean your tap water with Aqueon Water Conditioner prior to adding it to your aquarium. There are many different theories on how often and how much to change your water, however, 10% to 25% every 1 to 2 weeks is the best general rule of thumb.

How Do I Know if the Water Is Affecting My Betta?

Bettas are strong and vividly colored fish that is vibrant and robust. The fins of Bettas are broad and free to float in the event that they’re healthy. When they aren’t, the color may dull out, their fins will become tenser and they’ll start swimming more erratically and lose their smoothness.

Does Dirty Water Make My Betta’s Fins Look Shredded?

The Betta’s fins could get shredded in a number of ways, but they are not because of the polluted water. In order for the fin to heal properly, it is essential to ensure that your water is clean and clean and regularly changed. Additionally, dirty water can cause damage to the shredded fin worse with bacterial infections.

How Often Do You Clean a Betta Fish Tank? (Summary)

Cleaning your tank is crucial for the long, healthy existence of the betta fish. How you manage it is an important role.

Regular cleaning can extend your betta’s life span.

Without the use of a filter, you should be in the habit of cleaning your Betta’s tank at least once every week. And when you have the help of a filter it is recommended to establish a schedule for replacing a good portion of the water each week.

The good thing about having the Betta is that you have many different options to care for them. If frequent cleaning of the tank is something you’re not sure you’re able to handle You can choose a tank that is filtered or even the concept of an aquaponics system.

Whatever you decide to do as long as you have a clear tank and a well-planned plan in place your Betta will be content and vibrant fish for a long period of time.

If you enjoyed this article be sure to go through the rest of the site! If you have additional questions, you can post them in the comments section below!

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Dibyajyoti Bordoloi is the creator and author of FishCampRehab.com, a third-generation experienced fish keeper and owner of a successful pet breeding farm. He is also a member of the Center for Wildlife Rehabilitation And Conservation (Assam), the Marine Aquarium Societies of North East India, and the Kaziranga Nature Conservancy of Assam.