Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Saltwater Aquarium Water Treatments
1. API TAP Water Conditioner, Instantly neutralizes Chlorine, chloramines and Other Chemicals to Make t...
User Ratings: 83 2
API 52C First Impressions
"A MUST BUY!"Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. It is just as good when compared to other brands of conditioner. Dealing with biological cloudiness in my tank for some time. More doesn't hurt anything, but it's just wasted. If you have new tank syndrome then this is the stuff. I have a 5 gallon tank, so that number was waaaay too high for me. Beats the heck out of those expensive suit cleaners.
- API TAP Water Conditioner, Instantly neutralizes Chlorine, chloramines and Other Chemicals to Make tap Water Safe for Fish, Highly Concentrated, Use When Adding or Changing Water and When Adding Fish
- Contains one (1) API TAP WATER CONDITIONER Aquarium Water Conditioner 16-Ounce Bottle
- Neutralizes chlorine, chloramines and other chemicals to make tap water safe for fish
- Prevents tap water chemicals from causing gill destruction, tissue irritation and fish death
- Super strength, high concentration formula
- Use when adding or changing water and when adding new fish to freshwater and saltwater aquariums
- Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
- Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.75 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 52C
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='3.8']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
API 52C Final Thoughts
"Mostly for betta's."My water is crystal clear again, and it smells like a healthy fish tank again. I recieved it today at 3pm and applied it around 4pm. Boy, I thought I was having trouble with my filter. It only requires 3 drops per gallon you add to your tank. Crystal clear after changing water and adding this to my 2. You have to understand when to use this product, and what is is used for. This product is exactly what it says it is.
Overall Score
4.7
(8131 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Saltwater Aquarium Water Treatments
2. API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria, for Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium
User Ratings: 83 2
API 89E First Impressions
"Then go for it."Crystal clear after changing water and adding this to my 2. I know you are going to worry about your fish DON'T they are fine. I've used API water conditioner before and it works well. API Stress Coat is a phenomenal product. The aquasafe works instantly upon mixing with tap water. I have had aquariums for 40 years and have always used their product Cycle. I like API products and this is no different.
- API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria, for Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium
- Contains one (1) API QUICK START Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Nitrifying Bacteria 16-Ounce Bottle
- Allows instant addition of fish when starting a new aquarium
- Reduces compounds harmful to fish when used routinely
- Helps prevent fish loss in freshwater and saltwater aquariums
- Use when starting a new aquarium, when adding new fish and when changing water and filter media
- Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
- Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.75 inches; 0.32 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 89E
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.3']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
API 89E Final Thoughts
"I have guppies."I tried it without the water change and really didn't make a difference. It is much safer to simply to add 3 drops per gallon. The chloramines contain a small amount of ammonia. I'm sold on this, I've tried SO MANY and wow. Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. Sure enough they are back to their healthy coloration and didn't end up dying on me.
Overall Score
4.7
(3936 Points)

3. API Stress Zyme Bacterial Cleaner, Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Water Cleaning Solution
User Ratings: 85 2
API 56E First Impressions
"Worked just as well."The equation is already done for you if you buy Dr. Do not gravel vac or disturb the substrate. Fish are aerobic organisms that are susceptible to ROS. I have a 5 gallon tank, so that number was waaaay too high for me. I've using this for my betta for several years with every water change. This only applies to the 1st application. Initially this was used as a sample packet came with our aquarium.
- API Stress Zyme Bacterial Cleaner, Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Water Cleaning Solution
- Contains one (1) API STRESS ZYME Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Cleaning Solution 16-Ounce Bottle
- Keeps freshwater and saltwater aquariums clean and reduces maintenance
- Consumes sludge to help keep gravel and decorations clean
- Adds beneficial bacteria for a healthy aquarium
- Use weekly to maintain a clean, healthy aquarium
- Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
- Product Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 10 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 56E
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='4.8']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.9']
API 56E Final Thoughts
"No odor or discoloration."My fish didn't appear negatively effected by it either. However, be aware that the dosage starts at 20 gallons. The aquasafe works instantly upon mixing with tap water. Use a heater and crank it to 82 degrees again without fish in the tank. The equation is already done for you if you buy Dr. I've used every product on the market and this is the most AMAZING MUST HAVE PRODUCT! I'll continue to use this product, especially after a good tank cleaning.
Overall Score
4.8
(3764 Points)

4. API PIMAFIX Antifungal Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Remedy
User Ratings: 75 4
API 10J First Impressions
"Wow my tank is so clear."In my opinion there's nothing better. You need a source of ammonia to feed the bacteria which Dr. Easy to dispense the product without mess and easy to use per instructions. Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. Now our fish have grown and we've added live plants. It didn't kill the fish or cause any problems with the water so I stuck with it. No exaggeration-- literally cleared overnight.
- API PIMAFIX Antifungal Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Remedy
- Contains one (1) API PIMAFIX Antifungal Freshwater and Saltwater Fish Remedy 16-Ounce Bottle
- Rapidly and safely treats fungal infections on body and fins of fish
- Contains all-natural extract from West Indian Bay Trees to help with fungus and cottony growth
- Helps heal internal and external bacterial infections in freshwater, saltwater and reef aquariums
- Use daily for a week when treating infections
- Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
- Product Dimensions: 2.76 x 2.76 x 8.66 inches; 8 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 10J
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.4']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='4']
API 10J Final Thoughts
"Really good product!"This will give you how many drops is required per gallon. Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. API Stress Coat is a phenomenal product. I'm sold on this, I've tried SO MANY and wow. I read another review for this product saying they were using API for this purpose. But the septic tank bacteria did nothing. It didn't kill the fish or cause any problems with the water so I stuck with it.
Overall Score
4.5
(2016 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Saltwater Aquarium Water Treatments
5. API AMMO-LOCK Ammonia detoxifier, Detoxifies ammonia toxic to fish in aquarium water and tap water, ...
User Ratings: 75 3
API 45E First Impressions
"Shake well before use."Way to go Fluval keep up the good WORK! If you have a freshwater fish tank, I highly recommend this product. Ever since I made this purchase, my fish are not dying at all. Way to go Fluval keep up the good WORK! My tap water is very heavy and this water conditioner does it's magic. The chloramines contain a small amount of ammonia. I know you are going to worry about your fish DON'T they are fine.
- API AMMO-LOCK Ammonia detoxifier, Detoxifies ammonia toxic to fish in aquarium water and tap water, Use when ammonia is detected
- Contains one (1) API AMMO-LOCK Freshwater and Saltwater Aquarium Ammonia Detoxifier 16-Ounce Bottle
- Detoxifies ammonia in aquarium water and tap water
- Works instantly to make aquarium water safe for fish
- Eliminates fish stress caused by ammonia in freshwater and saltwater aquariums
- Dose freshwater and saltwater every two days until ammonia is not detected
- Manufacture: Aquarium Pharmaceuticals
- Product Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 8 inches; 1 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The API 45E
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='4.3']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='3.7']
API 45E Final Thoughts
"Of course."Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. I know you are going to want to add more chemicals, etc. DON'T just wait everything will be fine. I even poured in extra to help with the healing. I was sort of nervous buy this product and trying it out. I do not use this as a product to treat my tap water. This is the 5th since I put in the product and my tank is crystal clear.
Overall Score
4.6
(1755 Points)

6. Fluval Water Conditioner for Aquariums, 16.9-Ounce
User Ratings: 79 2
Fluval A8344A1 First Impressions
"This product is amazing."I hope I made the right decision, Betty is our family pet and is really loved! It's water change day so I did this step first then started cleaning the tank. I like API products and this is no different. Thanks to the Amazon reviewer who mentioned this! I swim 5x week and usually my suits last about 2 months. The bottle will last me years as it is huge! I have a great pump and uv light but still had cloudy-ish water.
- Fluval Water Conditioner for Aquariums, 16.9-Ounce
- Makes tap water safe for fish
- Neutralizes chlorine, chloramines and heavy metals
- Protects the sensitive mucous membrane of the fish
- Patented stress reducing formula
- For fresh and saltwater use
- Adding new water
- Water changes
- Setting up new tanks
- Manufacture: Fluval
- Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 6.5 inches; 1.08 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A8344A1
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='3.7']
- Quality [star rating='4.2']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.7']
- Affordability [star rating='4.6']
Fluval A8344A1 Final Thoughts
"This a great deal."My water was cloudy with a very fine misty haze. Now our fish have grown and we've added live plants. He started making bubble nests again which ne never did when it was super cloudy. By the following morning, the water was clear of algae. He started making bubble nests again which ne never did when it was super cloudy. This water conditioner is a life saver! In the last two months I have seen this product work its gold.
Overall Score
4.7
(1513 Points)

7. Natural Rapport Aquarium Water Conditioner - The Only All-in-1 Water Conditioner Fish Need - Natural...
User Ratings: 74 4
Natural Rapport First Impressions
"But that wasn't the case!"It is just as good when compared to other brands of conditioner. Fish possess an antioxidant defense system to reduce the negative effects of ROS. I know you are going to worry about your fish DON'T they are fine. I like that it's a large bottle with multiple uses, so that's nice. We use it when we clean& change out water. Don't know if that made a difference but it didn't hurt. Ever since I made this purchase, my fish are not dying at all.
- Natural Rapport Aquarium Water Conditioner - The Only All-in-1 Water Conditioner Fish Need - Naturally Detoxifies and Removes Ammonia, Nitrite, Chlorine, and Chloramine (16 fl oz.)
- PROFESSIONAL GRADE CONDITIONER - For Your Freshwater and Saltwater aquariums. No need for separate steps, supplies, accessories, or chemical kits to treat API stress coats, slime coats. Our professional chlorine remover does it all in one step.
- SALT & FRESHWATER - Treatments during changes will help your betta, goldfish, or others thrive as it balances pH, adds electrolytes, slime and stress coats for your fish. Also safer for saltwater marine invertebrates, plants and crustaceans.
- DETOXIFIES & REMOVES HARMFUL CHEMICALS - Quick to remove harmful bacteria such as Ammonia, Nitrate, Chlorine, Chloramine, Heavy Metals, and more. Our 'Natural Choice' Dechlorinator and clarifier does all this plus is safer for your aquarium.
- ALL-IN-ONE CONDITIONER - Makes your tap water instantly safe by removing harsh chemicals and detoxifies heavy metals. is so effective and safe it is also recommended for aqua live reefs. From beta fish to exotics, our treatment is great for all.
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED - Made in the USA, with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. We are a family-owned business passionate about making wholesome, natural products to keep your beautiful fresh- or sea salt-water fish safer and tanks healthier.
- Manufacture: Natural Rapport
- Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 8 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Natural Rapport
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.5']
- Quality [star rating='3.9']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='4.5']
Natural Rapport Final Thoughts
"I highly recommend it."I've using this for my betta for several years with every water change. I'm amazed, I'm really amazed that this product worked so well. One planted that has algae problem so bad. Ever since I made this purchase, my fish are not dying at all. It didn't kill the fish or cause any problems with the water so I stuck with it. The aquasafe water conditioner is a fantastic de-chlorinator. Pictures included to see the difference.
Overall Score
4.5
(1399 Points)

8. Fluval Biological Enhancer for Aquariums, 16.9-Ounce
User Ratings: 80 3
Fluval A8351A1 First Impressions
"Wonderful product."It's water change day so I did this step first then started cleaning the tank. You need to buy an eye dropper for this. If you have new tank syndrome then this is the stuff. From their own colon or a hole in the ground. The bottle will last me years as it is huge! Very good product for an unbelievable price. We use it when we clean& change out water.
- Fluval Biological Enhancer for Aquariums, 16.9-Ounce
- Immediately establishes safe biological aquarium environment
- Powerful responsive ammonia and nitrite elimination
- Prevents fish loss
- Allows immediate introduction of fish
- For Fresh and Saltwater Use
- All-natural water care – creates a safe biological habitat to prevent fish loss
- Infused with a powerful team of beneficial bacteria that immediately inoculates aquarium water
- Extremely effective when setting up a new aquarium or introducing new fish to an existing one
- Manufacture: Fluval
- Product Dimensions: 3 x 3 x 6.5 inches; 1.15 Pounds
- Editor's Impressions Of The Fluval A8351A1
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='5']
- Quality [star rating='5']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.8']
- Affordability [star rating='4.2']
Fluval A8351A1 Final Thoughts
"I was getting 30-40 ppm."I swim 5x week and usually my suits last about 2 months. It is just as good when compared to other brands of conditioner. I have a Fluval tank and only use their chemicals. It's water change day so I did this step first then started cleaning the tank. I could see it working immediately which was pretty wild. However, be aware that the dosage starts at 20 gallons. My water is crystal clear again, and it smells like a healthy fish tank again.
Overall Score
4.7
(1263 Points)

9. Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter7, Bacteria & Water Conditioner for Fish Tank or Aquarium, Populates ...
User Ratings: 79 2
Brightwell Aquatics BAC1L First Impressions
"And it did."Dealing with biological cloudiness in my tank for some time. But the septic tank bacteria did nothing. The reviews on people fish dying really spooked me. The aquasafe works instantly upon mixing with tap water. This will give you how many drops is required per gallon. My tap water is very heavy and this water conditioner does it's magic. I read the reviews, and decided to give this a try.
- Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter7, Bacteria & Water Conditioner for Fish Tank or Aquarium, Populates Biological Filter Media for Saltwater and Freshwater Fish
- Establishes biological filtration in new aquarium set-ups
- Reduces nitrogen, nitrates, nitrites, phosphates, ammonia & organic carbon in all marine and freshwater aquariums with extremely effective microbes and enzymes
- Veterinarian Pathologist tested and recommended
- Made in the USA
- Manufacture: Brightwell Aquatics
- Editor's Impressions Of The Brightwell Aquatics BAC1L
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.7']
- Quality [star rating='4.6']
- Value For Money [star rating='4.1']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
Brightwell Aquatics BAC1L Final Thoughts
"I love Seachem."I've used every product on the market and this is the most AMAZING MUST HAVE PRODUCT! 4-5 squirts in a sink of water, soak my suit 10 min, wring out and hang to dry. In the last two months I have seen this product work its gold. I do not use this as a product to treat my tap water. The reviews on people fish dying really spooked me. I have two goldfish and a Corydoras catfish. It is much safer to simply to add 3 drops per gallon.
Overall Score
4.7
(975 Points)

10. Dr. Tim’s Aquatics Ammonium Chloride Aquarium Treatment for Fishless Cycling – Chlorine Free, Fi...
User Ratings: 76 4
DrTim's Aquatics 830 First Impressions
"It was bad."It is much safer to simply to add 3 drops per gallon. I even poured in extra to help with the healing. 1st day, I put product in tank with Fluval Biological Cleaner for Aquariums also. I finally gave in and purchased this product. Fish seem healthy and active during use. However, be aware that the dosage starts at 20 gallons. Crystal clear after changing water and adding this to my 2.
- Dr. Tim’s Aquatics Ammonium Chloride Aquarium Treatment for Fishless Cycling – Chlorine Free, Fish Tank Cleaner for Saltwater, Freshwater, Reef Aquariums – 100% Natural – 2 Oz.
- FISHLESS CYCLING AQUARIUM CLEANING TREATMENT: The ammonium chloride solution from DrTim’s Aquatics offers a chlorine-free method for sanitizing new aquaria or when cycling water when fish or coral are not present. This powerful solution makes fishless cycling mess free.
- REMOVES HARMFUL TOXINS FROM SALTWATER FISH TANKS: Even with regular water changes and maintenance, aquariums and fish tanks produces bad bacteria and it can take up to 30 days to eliminate waste. When using this ammonium chloride solution for fishless cycling with DrTim’s Aquatics One & Only, you can instantly create a bio filter to remove nitrite and toxic ammonia naturally.
- 100% NATURAL, ECO-FRIENDLY FISH TANK CLEANER: There’s no need to wait when treating your new saltwater aquarium or freshwater fish tank with this ammonium chloride solution and One & Only from DrTim’s Aquatics. This fish tank cleaner eliminates new tank syndrome and does not include sulfur or other offensive odors.
- AQUARIUM SUPPLIES YOU NEED: Offer your pet fish and corals an environment in which they can thrive with this ammonium chloride solution that cleans with just four drops per gallon. Ammonium chloride from DrTim’s Aquatics is available in 2 and 4 ounce sizes.
- HIGH-QUALITY AQUARIUM PRODUCTS: DrTim’s Aquatics offers an expansive line of aquarium products used by professionals and residential customers. Based on years of experience in marine biology, DrTim’s Aquatics’ products utilize his vast knowledge and are backed by scientific evidence and innovative research.
- Manufacture: DrTim's Aquatics, LLC
- Product Dimensions: 3.75 x 1.75 x 1.75 inches; 3.2 Ounces
- Editor's Impressions Of The DrTim's Aquatics 830
- Treatment Effectiveness [star rating='4.1']
- Quality [star rating='3.5']
- Value For Money [star rating='5']
- Affordability [star rating='5']
DrTim's Aquatics 830 Final Thoughts
"Give it a shot."UV light works on it but not much else. You have to understand when to use this product, and what is is used for. Its 9pm and the old cloudy water is now crystal clear! Tim's cultures were obviously very alive and active. My fish didn't appear negatively effected by it either. I'll continue to use this product, especially after a good tank cleaning. This is my go to water conditioner and stressed fish treatment.
Overall Score
4.5
(813 Points)
