Algae cleaning tools

[CincyScaper]

What tools do you all use to clean algae of the glass ? I use Mr.Clean magic eraser, tooth brush and a razor glass scraper.

I have been looking to get a mag float and see if there is an upgrade pic over a standard stainless steel scraper you would get on amazon.

TIA

 

[JayP]

I've tried multiple magnet cleaners including the popular Tunze. I don't like them. I stick to the razor blade wand, and scrubbies that are white scubbie on one side and soft sponge on the other. I've also used blue Scotchbrite sponge scrubbies, but absolutely never, ever use a green Scotcbrite scrubbie.

 

[deepgreen]

I use the fake plastic credit cards that occasionally come in the mail. They work well and do not cost anything.

 

[Kwyet]

I’m use magic eraser and a razor scraper when necessary.

 

[hamfist]

Tried lots of alternatives and I always keep coming back to these.

 

[Mr.Shenanagins]

I use an “organic” sponge with a no scratch scrubbing side. Credit card for hard to reach areas or razor blade. Amazon also sells plastic razor blades that work well and a little less dangerous when coming close to the silicone.

Magnetic cleaners always result in me snagging sand so unless you are sand free I would avoid them.

 

[bizo]

I use jbl floaty, some generic razor blade scraper from aliexpress (~50cm long), regular kitchen sponges, hard brush for edges ... Ordered something similar to Tunze scraper ... But unlike jbl floaty can't jump corners without falling to bottom ...

 

[Wet Elbows]

I use the fake plastic credit cards that occasionally come in the mail. They work well and do not cost anything.

What I like even better than a credit card is a hotel key card. They are just a tad thicker plastic so a little sturdier, not as much give and bend in them.

 

[Aquajack]

I currently only use the magnetic cleaners and a credit card for down towards the substrate to try and help avoid scratching the glass.
For removing algae inside the tank other than on the glass, a basic tooth brush works wonders. Best tool I have haha.

 

[BenB]

I wanted to buy a mini mag float for my tank, but they are $&#@$ $29. That's nuts for that.

I've been using these with no issues. Has a coarse side and a soft side. I try not to scrub hard. $5.39 for 3 on Amazon. The other thing I use is an old tooth brush.

 

[Ernesto]

i like steel wire wool, eg Blanki from JBL, as an effective tool to get gsa and other dirt off the glass, even in the side corners. (i use it on regular float glass as well as low iron)
For the bottom corner i use razor or credit card, not to get sand inbetween steel wool and glass.

 

[craftycamper]

I used to use a expired credit card back when I was a broke hs student. I use a razor scraper now, just gotta be careful to not scratch the glass with substrate

 

[Chimera]

Reviving this thread as I’m starting a new tank so thought something may have changed in the last decade or so in this space. Lucky I keep all those loyalty cards in the shed for epoxy and filleting work!

What tools do you all use to clean algae of the glass ? I use Mr.Clean magic eraser, tooth brush and a razor glass scraper.

I have been looking to get a mag float and see if there is an upgrade pic over a standard stainless steel scraper you would get on amazon.

TIA

One note on the magic eraser things…. Ever noticed how they kinda wear away? They are made from melamine formaldehyde foam. They are breaking down to create the magic abrasive as you scrub. Microplastics.

Awesome for painted surfaces like scuff marks on walls and things.