Cleaning Acrylic Tanks

[dhughesz28]

Hi all, just bought an acrylic tank, and it’s really dirty. I was wondering what methods to use to clean it without scratching it.
Once it is set up, what would you suggest I use to clean the inside with? I hate those scraper on a stick things, I have a magnetic cleaner/scrubber on my glass tank and love it. Are these safe to use on acrylics, as long as no sand gets between the tank and scrubber that is. . .?? :thinking:

 

[ophiura]

There are some made specifically for acrylic, and I would definitely invest in one :yes: When you say dirty...is it just dust and things? Some vinegar and a rinse work with that.

 

[dhughesz28]

Ya its just dusty from being in the box, but I’m also thinking down the line, having to clean off algae from the inside and finger prints off the outside... Are paper towels to abrasive, or should I use something softer...
Thanks

 

[ophiura]

I would probably get a softer cloth just to be safe...just only use it on the tank and always check for bit of sand or something. There are mag floats for acrylic tanks, and also algae pads specifically for acrylic tanks. Again, ALWAYS look for any sand that might get in there and go very slowly as you go along the bottom.
There are several "buffing" cleaners for the outside of acrylic tanks (and the inside can be done as well but not typically with water in it). These are handy for minor scratches.
I worked at an aquarium. We had several nice "keyings" from kids with keys. Boy, that was a joy. But better than those of us who caught sand or a snail on and algae pad.

 

[spanky]

do NOT use paper towell... I use old well worn cotton t-shirts. Cotton diapers are great too

 

[robchuck]

I used distilled white vinegar dilluted with water to clean my acrylic tank after I picked it up. I gently scrubbed with a soft cotton cloth, and didn't do any harm to the tank.
With the tank now set up, I use a strong, acrylic-safe cleaning magnet on a daily basis, and polish the front of the tank with a Coralife spray wiped down with a soft cotton cloth.
Ditto on the paper towel remarks. They are very abrasive and will leave swirl marks in the acrylic after awhile.

 

[joker_ca]

BE CAREFUL WTIH THE MAGNETIC SCRUBBERS THEY CAN STILL SCRATCH YOUR TANK IF SOMETHING GETS LODGED IN THERE, IN MY CASE A VERY SMALL STAR FISH GOT INTO MY SCRUBBER AND WHEN I TRYED TO CLEAN THE TANK I REALLY SCRATCHED IT UP SO BECAREFUL WITH THEM