Editor's Choice - Our Favorite API Aquarium Cleaner Sprays

1. API Algae SCRAPERS and Hand HELD Pads for Acrylic Aquariums

User Ratings: 71 2

API 21 First Impressions

"Amazing product."

It's like comparing sweeping your carpets to actually vacuuming them. So after I received my replacement tool, i did a water change with it. Makes cleaning my daughter's turtle tank much, much easier. Python is good too but this is fast, easy and light. I found that it's difficult to use. I saw this cleaner on another forum and figured I would give it a shot. THE ABSOLUTE BEST PART IS THE SUCTION POWER AND TIME SAVING.

  • API Algae SCRAPERS and Hand HELD Pads for Acrylic Aquariums
  • Contains one (1) API ALGAE SCRAPER For Glass Aquariums 1-Count Container
  • Extra long and extra strong scraper for glass aquariums.
  • Quickly removed unsightly algae.
  • Extra-long handle keeps your hand from getting wet and supports durable scrubbing pad.
  • For use in glass aquariums only. Not for use on acrylic, plexiglass, or any surface other than glass. Do not use on dry surfaces. Rinse pad with tap water before and after each use.
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 3.25 x 18 inches; 3.53 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 21
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='3.7']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.3']

API 21 Final Thoughts

"Would def recommend!"

That said, the results were excellent. I happily and heartily recommend this product. It came with 2 attachments, a plastic one and a metal razor one. This is built tough, so that time may be a while. Makes cleaning my daughter's turtle tank much, much easier. I have several divided tanks and I struggle to get the normal syphon in to clean. I may modify mine to be more robust.

Overall Score
4.5

[star rating="4.5"]
(4102 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated API Aquarium Cleaner Sprays

2. API SAFE & EASY Aquarium Cleaner Spray 8-Ounce Bottle

User Ratings: 65 9

API 123 First Impressions

"Just look at the pics."

I would definitely recommend this product. I love the little blue handle for this glass cleaner, too! The bucket clamp also doesn't work very well. For this tank, the magnet is too strong. Definitely like the bulb for starting suction easily. If this company ever needs a spokesperson I am their man. Works very well to clean algae from the glass.

  • API SAFE & EASY Aquarium Cleaner Spray 8-Ounce Bottle
  • Contains one (1) API SAFE & EASY Aquarium Cleaner Spray 8-Ounce Bottle
  • Cleans aquarium glass both inside and outside of glass and acrylic aquariums.
  • Cuts through white, crusty mineral deposits.
  • Safe for fish and plants.
  • Use to clean glass or acrylic aquariums.
  • Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
  • Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 6.25 inches; 9.6 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The API 123
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='4.2']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='4.5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.4']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.2']

API 123 Final Thoughts

"Easy to use."

It will also flip to the side of the tank as shown in another customers review video. The trigger can be pulled on and off and it shakes the gravel for you. I have 6 tanks 130 gallons, 85, 75, 55, 39 and 20 gallons. It was on low so I put it on high and found that the unit would be ok. Shrimp are sensitive and need small water changes. AQQA multifunctional vacuum cleaner makes its job absolutely well. I happily and heartily recommend this product.

Overall Score
4.2

[star rating="4.2"]
(321 Points)

3. Mag-Float 25A Acrylic Cleaner - Mini - Tan

User Ratings: 51 24

Mag-Float MAG-FLOAT 25A ACRYLIC CLEANER - Mini - T First Impressions

"Will order pebbles."

I was able to get behind most of my plants no problem when cleaning the glass. This one doesn't lose suction, and is easy to use. You won't go wrong with this product. I almost spent more and got the big name brand one. This hose would be over kill for 20 gals or less but I have 40 gal tanks. I have several divided tanks and I struggle to get the normal syphon in to clean. Going to purchase the larger size in the future.

  • Mag-Float 25A Acrylic Cleaner - Mini - Tan
  • Easy removal of algae from glass/acrylic surfaces
  • No longer knock over decorations, damage corals and invertebrates
  • No longer get your hands submerged into the water of the fish tank
  • Large cleaning surface area makes the job quick and efficient
  • Can be used on freshwater and saltwater tanks
  • Manufacture: Gulfstream Tropical Aquar
  • Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 5 x 1.8 inches; 1.6 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Mag-Float MAG-FLOAT 25A ACRYLIC CLEANER - Mini - T
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='2.7']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='3.5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.8']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.5']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.4']

Mag-Float MAG-FLOAT 25A ACRYLIC CLEANER - Mini - T Final Thoughts

"It's so easy."

So after I received my replacement tool, i did a water change with it. No snails or shrimp would stand a chance. I bought the XL version for my 75gallon long. I also found that the angled attachment clogged way easy. With this product I was able to do it by myself quickly and easily! Made water changes so much faster and did not have to accidentally swallow water. This little tool helped so much my bare bottom tank looks great again.

Overall Score
3.5

[star rating="3.5"]
(36 Points)

4. Mcgrady1xm Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner, 5 in 1 Automatic Vacuum Fish Tank Cleaning Tool Set,Wat...

User Ratings: 33 22

mcgrady1xm First Impressions

"Took about 1 min."

Going to purchase the larger size in the future. I did add a hose from an old gravel cleaner to reach my bucket. This thing cleans the glass on my tank quickly and efficiently. I gotta say tho that it's really powerful. I found that it's difficult to use. The cleaner is very easy to install, and it is multifunction. Do what I did, and do, and so many others have stated in their reviews.

  • Mcgrady1xm Electric Aquarium Gravel Cleaner, 5 in 1 Automatic Vacuum Fish Tank Cleaning Tool Set,Water Changer Sand Washer with Filter Cotton
  • 【Full of Sincerity, Full in Packages】1 handle, 4 sections of extension tubes, 1 switch,1 low suction pump, 1 sand vaccum, 1 shower, 1 debris vacuum, 1 brush head, 1 sand washing head, 1 filter bag and 59in water hose
  • 【Longer and Deeper】Comes with 4 sections of extension tube, which can extend from 19 inches to 46 inches, longer than other products! 4-foot-deep fish tank can be easily cleaned and water changed
  • 【Water Changer】Super strong pump and high heed,flow rate up to 496GPH(8.3 Gallon per Minute), 7ft head, starting water level as low as 1.9in, pumping as low as 0.3in, shallow fish tank can also use, fast and efficient, no need to waste time manually changing water,drop your siphon!
  • 【Upgrade 5 in 1】We can do: ① Quickly suck impurities ② Quickly wash sand ③ Rain mode ④ Pumping mode ⑤ Quickly add water mode to meet all your cleaning and water changing requirements
  • 【Perform their duties】Duckbill suction head is suitable for bare tank use, corner sand washing head is suitable for landscaping sand and stone fish tank, effluent rain shower can bathe turtles, low suction seat can be sucked to low water level, Sand washing head attachment for cleaning coarse gravel , brush head for cleaning on the substrate
  • Manufacture: mcgrady1xm
  • Editor's Impressions Of The mcgrady1xm
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='4.3']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='3']
  • Quality [star rating='2.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.2']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.1']

mcgrady1xm Final Thoughts

"Arrived promptly."

It's like comparing sweeping your carpets to actually vacuuming them. The sock included is ok, I use a fine filter media bag because it's easier to clean. Even with my now-bare-bottom tank, the attachments were very ineffective. Even with my now-bare-bottom tank, the attachments were very ineffective. This vac is incredible, a power stronger than most of the canisters and sump filters. I bought the large one and it makes quick work of alge scrubbing. This hose would be over kill for 20 gals or less but I have 40 gal tanks.

Overall Score
3.3

[star rating="3.3"]
(33 Points)

5. NICREW Automatic Gravel Cleaner, Electric Aquarium Cleaner, 2 in 1 Sludge Extractor for Medium and L...

User Ratings: 49 16

NICREW HXS-01 First Impressions

"Arrived promptly."

It kept coming off and made a mess on the floor. I LOVE IT SO MUCH I'm getting another for the fish tank at my Mom's house. I am using this on a bare bottom tank. I am using this on a bare bottom tank. We have a snapping turtle and I was having to clean his tank 2-3 times a month. I had a couple of problems as it was the first time I have used anything like this. I LOVE IT SO MUCH I'm getting another for the fish tank at my Mom's house.

  • NICREW Automatic Gravel Cleaner, Electric Aquarium Cleaner, 2 in 1 Sludge Extractor for Medium and Large Tanks
  • Ideal for complete aquarium cleaning or quick spot maintenance
  • Easily removes particles from topmost layer of substrate without disturbing the bottom layer of gravel
  • Decreases the build-up of harmful toxins in your aquarium while reducing strain on your filter
  • Eco-friendly products support aquatic life with a "green" approach
  • This unit can be used in freshwater and saltwater aquariums with a water depth of up to approx. 28”
  • Manufacture: NICREW
  • Editor's Impressions Of The NICREW HXS-01
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='3.9']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='3.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='2.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='2.9']

NICREW HXS-01 Final Thoughts

"Just look at the pics."

Once you get the tank water flowing out of the tubing. You won't go wrong with this product. The only reason for the 4 starts instead of 5, no English directions. For the water pump part, it has strong power, it works great. I bought one of these by mistake and I am so eternally grateful for that mistake. I had a couple of problems as it was the first time I have used anything like this. I found that it's difficult to use.

Overall Score
3.8

[star rating="3.8"]
(1163 Points)

6. UEETEK Algae Razor Scrapers Cleaner,65cm Stainless Steel Algae Cleaning Razor Scraper Cleaner Tool W...

User Ratings: 51 4

UEETEK First Impressions

"Good purchase."

Light weight and many attachments for different uses. Hard for small hands like mine to grasp and use easily. I love the little blue handle for this glass cleaner, too! I have gone through two others and they lasted about a month. I bought the large one and it makes quick work of alge scrubbing. I cleaned it in the sink then cleaned my other 20 long tank. You can see the debris coming up the tube like an elevator- hahah.

  • UEETEK Algae Razor Scrapers Cleaner,65cm Stainless Steel Algae Cleaning Razor Scraper Cleaner Tool With 10 Pcs Blades for Fish Tank Aquarium,25.6 x 1.8 x 0.3 inch (L x W x H)
  • Material: Stainless steel.
  • Made from superior stainless steel. Anti-rust and corrosion resistance with strong durability.
  • Angled blade design for cleaning corner and places that is generally hard to reach.
  • Very convenient to install, change blades and use.
  • Specialized algae cleaner scraper for fish tank and glass tank cleaning.
  • Manufacture: UEETEK
  • Product Dimensions: 25.59 x 1.77 x 0.31 inches; 7.44 Ounces
  • Editor's Impressions Of The UEETEK
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='4.8']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='4.4']
  • Quality [star rating='4.5']
  • Value For Money [star rating='4']
  • Affordability [star rating='3.5']

UEETEK Final Thoughts

"Anyway, he loves it."

I gotta say tho that it's really powerful. I also found that the angled attachment clogged way easy. The other attachment are great as well. I'm thinking of other ways this could be used! I bought one of these by mistake and I am so eternally grateful for that mistake. I have 6 tanks 130 gallons, 85, 75, 55, 39 and 20 gallons. Definitely not for the common colored gravel found at pet stores.

Overall Score
4.0

[star rating="4"]
(37 Points)

7. Fish Tank Gravel Cleaner, Jhua Aquarium Vacuum Gravel Cleaners 7.87FT Aquarium Cleaner Siphon Vacuum...

User Ratings: 45 18

Jhua First Impressions

"Everything work good."

Changing water and cleaning the tank is a joy now. The easy siphoning of fish debris used to be a pain to do. Easy peasy and clean up is a breeze. No options to purchase them, they look useful. Once put together, I tried it immediately- it was AWESOME! So as a hobbyist I started with 1 tank and now have 7. The easy siphoning of fish debris used to be a pain to do.

  • Fish Tank Gravel Cleaner, Jhua Aquarium Vacuum Gravel Cleaners 7.87FT Aquarium Cleaner Siphon Vacuum Pump Gravel Cleaner, Water Changer Self Priming with Adjustable Flow Control for Large Fish Tank
  • 【Multi-Purpose】- 3-in-1 multifunctional, water changing, sand washing & residue removing. Fish tank vacuum gravel cleaner uses vacuum siphon to change water, filter gravel, remove fish poop, efficient water cleaning.
  • 【Air-Pressing】- Aquarium siphon gravel cleaner comes with an airbag, vacuum pumping, powerful suction, can easily remove sediment from the bottom of the tank. Built-in strainer in the water inlet effectively prevents little fish or aquatic plant from being discharged.
  • 【Labor-Saving】- Aquarium gravel filter is simple to operate. Pressing the airbag repeatedly till the water flows out automatically, greatly facilitates the cleaning process. When pumping water, the outlet level must be lower than the inlet level.
  • 【Adjustable Water Flow】- PVC water outlet pipe, excellent oxidation-resistant and corrosion-resistant performance, fairly soft, flexible and durable. Fish tank siphon is equipped with an outlet valve, handy to control the water yield.
  • 【Detachable Cleaner】- Aquarium gravel cleaner can be split into different parts, easy to assemble and disassemble. Suitable for large fish tank, aquarium etc.
  • Manufacture: Jhua
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Jhua
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='4.4']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='2.6']
  • Quality [star rating='3.9']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3.9']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.5']

Jhua Final Thoughts

"This is so great!"

I was able to get behind most of my plants no problem when cleaning the glass. Prolly also easier to use with larger hands. This tool helped me clean all the glass in about 2 mins. It makes my water changes in my tanks much easier and convinient. The easy siphoning of fish debris used to be a pain to do. Scrubs away even the toughest alge. I happily and heartily recommend this product.

Overall Score
3.6

[star rating="3.6"]
(65 Points)

8. Python Pro-Clean Gravel Washer and Siphon Kit for Aquarium, Large

User Ratings: 70 4

Python 16PC First Impressions

"Great glass cleaner."

5 hours even adding water back to tanks. Also equipped come with a lot of accessories,. Prolly also easier to use with larger hands. AQQA multifunctional vacuum cleaner makes its job absolutely well. It did however do a better job than the gravel vac i was using before. Changing water and cleaning the tank is a joy now. The bucket clamp also doesn't work very well.

  • Python Pro-Clean Gravel Washer and Siphon Kit for Aquarium, Large
  • Effectively separates and removes debris from your aquarium
  • Constructed with flexible, high quality tubing
  • For aquariums from 20 to 55 gallons in size
  • Manufacture: Python Products Inc.
  • Item Weight: 14.1 ounces
  • Product Dimensions: 20 x 8.05 x 2 inches
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Python 16PC
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='5']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='4.2']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='4.4']

Python 16PC Final Thoughts

"Cleans well and quickly."

I love the little blue handle for this glass cleaner, too! I can reach my hand in, but it seems to stress her out. Had a minor issue which their service department addressed immediately. A quality product and if you have a tank, this cleaner is a must. Definitely worth the money spent on the product. The issue is that the sponge also blocks any debris from entering. You won't go wrong with this product.

Overall Score
4.4

[star rating="4.4"]
(5627 Points)

9. Aquarium Flexible Drain Brush,Nylon Double Ended Elastic Hose Pipe 67-inch and 2 PCS 8.2-inch Stra...

User Ratings: 82 2

Snowsun First Impressions

"A solid 4 star product!"

I am no longer spending half the day to clean all my tanks. The cleaner is very easy to install, and it is multifunction. Size wise, the Medium is good for a 40B. Does not come apart easily like some others I have had. This thing cleans the glass on my tank quickly and efficiently. I saw this cleaner on another forum and figured I would give it a shot. Made water changes so much faster and did not have to accidentally swallow water.

  • Aquarium Flexible Drain Brush,Nylon Double Ended Elastic Hose Pipe 67-inch and 2 PCS 8.2-inch Straw Cleaning Brush for Fish Tank, Hose/Glass Tube, Shower Sink Drain, Home Kitchen
  • ★67 - inch length with 0.9-inch and 1.2 diameter bristle head, Dual end brush and 2 pcs 8.2-inch straw brush
  • ★With rotating bristles, stainless steel material,flex two-end long brush,makes cleaning easier.
  • ★Flexible brush works great at cleaning around the stopper and will reach the u bend with no problems.
  • ★Perfect cleaning tool, Ideal for all aquarium filter, fish tank, lily pipe, shower sink drain cleaning.
  • ★100% Satisfactory Service: If you have any questions or concerns about the product, please feel free to contact us.
  • Manufacture: vvxejv
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Snowsun
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='4.3']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='5']
  • Quality [star rating='3.7']
  • Value For Money [star rating='5']
  • Affordability [star rating='5']

Snowsun Final Thoughts

"Works great."

I would recommend this to my friends. Cleans everything, drains a tank in no time at all. I almost spent more and got the big name brand one. Ignore the orang plastic clip that attaches to a bucket. The only reason for the 4 starts instead of 5, no English directions. But strength wise, I should have gotten a Large. Very impressed with their responsiveness as they stand behind their product.

Overall Score
4.7

[star rating="4.7"]
(1674 Points)

10. AIBAO Aquarium Fish Tank Siphon and Gravel Cleaner Water Changer - A Manual Siphon Pump to Drain Awa...

User Ratings: 54 12

AIBAO First Impressions

"Best effect."

A little tricky with the hand pump. Try getting floating pieces of poop into a small slit of an opening. We have one from our siphon vacuum and it truly completes this set. I did have to cut one of the tubes to make it a little shorter but that was easy. This tool helped me clean all the glass in about 2 mins. I have gone through two others and they lasted about a month. I can reach my hand in, but it seems to stress her out.

  • AIBAO Aquarium Fish Tank Siphon and Gravel Cleaner Water Changer - A Manual Siphon Pump to Drain Away Water in Minutes
  • 【3 IN 1 FUNCTION AND COST-EFFECTIVE】AIBAO Aquarium cleaner can be used as water changer,sand washing and gravel cleaner. Giving your precious fish a healthy and favorable living environment.Many fish or tortoise tank accessories are overpriced. This simple, high-quality product does the same job of a much more expensive siphon.
  • 【EASY TO USE】No more scooping up dirty water with a pail! Use the principle of siphon to operate, All you need to do is to pinch the blue SIPHON BALL 3-6 times, the water will flow out from the nozzle automatically. When cleaning sand, the filter can protect small sand and fish from being sucked in. Unplug the filter, the suction power will increase, and the dirt in the fish tank can be absorbed.
  • 【BAP FREE MATERIAL AND EASY TO STORE】Every component of AIBAO aquarium kits is made of quality flexible PVC plastic which could ensure a long time use. It won't be too stiff, easy to bend it into any position to fit for your use.The entire water changer can be disassembled into 4 small parts, which does not take up a lot of space and can be conveniently stored in a drawer or a bag.
  • 【PERFECT AND SAFE FOR REGULAR WATER CHANGE】No Messy drips, and a sturdy outlet valve to improve suction. You can clear 30L water in about 5 minutes. Each nozzle comes with a guard which eliminates the risk of your fishes from getting sucked up by the gravel cleaner and hurting your precious fishes. Water Changer Siphons use on medium, large, extra large gallon tanks 20 to 50 gal.
  • 【CUSTOMER SERVICE】Any questions can consult with us. We pay attention to EVERY customer feedback and adjust every detail to ensure quality and satisfaction.
  • Manufacture: AIBAO
  • Editor's Impressions Of The AIBAO
  • Cleaning Ability [star rating='3.8']
  • Cleaning Power [star rating='4.1']
  • Quality [star rating='4.1']
  • Value For Money [star rating='3']
  • Affordability [star rating='4']

AIBAO Final Thoughts

"It was easy to assemble."

It did however do a better job than the gravel vac i was using before. It will also flip to the side of the tank as shown in another customers review video. I bought one of these by mistake and I am so eternally grateful for that mistake. Product seems to be well made and should work a long time with reasonable care. Works really well and is very powerful. Even with my now-bare-bottom tank, the attachments were very ineffective. Water changes and cleaning can be a pain we all know.

Overall Score
3.9

[star rating="3.9"]
(158 Points)

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