Algae scraper/pad

Let the cleaning be started by giving glass good cleaning on inner side with the help of an algae pad or scraper. Magnetic scrubbers are preferred. It is advisable to buy algae scrapers at pet shop other than regular store or house ware department. The reason behind this is that house ware scrapers are likely of having chemical residue or soap. This can prove to be fatal to the fish.

Razor blade

If the residue on glass is stubborn, use of a razor blade for scrapping is recommended. Care should be taken that you do not end up cutting your finger. As stated above, let a plastic razor be used for acrylic aquarium. This would help in preventing scratching caused due to normal razors.

Bleach

After having cleaned the inner glass, let rocks, artificial decorations or plants having substantial algae growth be removed. They should not be cleaned with detergents or soaps. For bleaching live plants, let a 5 percent bleach solution be prepared. Then soaking and cleaning of plants comes into picture.

Siphon

The next thing to be cleaned is gravel. This should be done by making use of water siphon for vacuuming away the garbage. Now, hood, tank top, outside glass, and light need to be cleaned. Lime and glass cleaners must be used for this.

Filter cleaning

This should be done after 2 weeks of cleaning the other accessories. This must be followed because certain useful bacteria should not get killed.