Aquarium Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed (But Will Be Glad You Had)

Keeping an aquarium is an exciting journey, especially for beginner fishkeepers. You’ve set up your tank with the basics – the aquarium itself, a filter, a heater, lights, and some fish food. That covers the essentials, right? It’s a great start, but many aquarium accessories often go overlooked until you really need them. These are the extra tools and gadgets that can make maintaining your fish tank easier, keep your aquatic pets healthier, and overall enhance your fishkeeping experience.

In this article, we’ll highlight a list of aquarium accessories you might not realize you need. From clever maintenance tools to safety equipment, each item on this list can save you hassle and help your underwater world thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or already have a tank or two, you’ll likely discover something new that you’ll be glad to have in your arsenal. (Plus, many of these items are readily available from specialized aquarium retailers like MB Store UK, so they’re easy to find when you decide to upgrade your setup.)

Let’s dive into the must-have aquarium accessories you didn’t know you needed – until now!

Sturdy Aquarium Stand or Cabinet – A Secure Foundation

One of the first things to consider for a new tank is where it will sit. New hobbyists sometimes place a heavy aquarium on a regular table or shelf without realizing the risk. Aquariums weigh hundreds of pounds when filled with water, gravel, and decorations. A wobbling or weak piece of furniture could lead to disaster – think spills, cracks, or even a collapse. That’s why a sturdy aquarium stand or cabinet designed to hold the weight is so important.

An aquarium-specific stand provides proper support across the entire tank bottom. It’s built to handle the weight and dimensions of fish tanks, keeping your setup level and secure. This not only protects your floor and furniture but also protects the aquarium itself from stress. Many stands also come with storage space for equipment and supplies, which helps keep your fishkeeping gear organized. You’ll be glad to have a cabinet to tuck away foods, nets, and water conditioners, rather than leaving them scattered around.

If you’re thinking long-term, investing in a quality stand is wise. It’s an accessory you might not have budgeted for initially, but it pays off in peace of mind. MB Store UK offers a variety of robust aquarium cabinets and stands that fit different tank sizes, ensuring your tank has a reliable foundation. Remember, a level and well-supported aquarium is far less likely to crack or leak over time. With a proper stand, you can enjoy watching your fish without worrying about the furniture holding them up.

Protective Aquarium Mat – Safeguard Your Tank and Furniture

Right along with a solid stand, another accessory you didn’t know you needed is a protective aquarium mat. This is a cushioning pad (often made of foam or rubber) that sits between your aquarium and the stand or table. At first glance, it might seem unnecessary – why put a mat under a fish tank? But this small accessory plays a big role in protecting both your tank and the furniture beneath it.

Aquarium mats distribute the weight of the tank evenly and help compensate for any minor unevenness on the surface below. Even a sturdy stand can have tiny imperfections or slightly uneven areas. Glass aquariums especially are sensitive to pressure points; a small pebble or an uneven plank could stress the glass. Over time, that stress can lead to cracks or leaks. A foam mat creates a buffer that absorbs pressure and ensures your tank sits flat. It’s like giving your aquarium a shock absorber.

Additionally, a mat helps prevent scratches on your cabinet or table when you set down the tank. It can also catch small spills or drips that occur during water changes, protecting the wood or material underneath from water damage. Some mats have non-slip properties, reducing the chance of the tank sliding if accidentally nudged.

For rimless or frameless aquariums (which sit flat on their bottom glass pane), using a mat is often recommended by manufacturers for safety. Beginners may not be aware of this, but they’ll certainly be happy later on that their aquarium has extra protection. It’s a low-cost accessory that can save you from a high-cost accident. Many aquarium suppliers (like MB Store UK) offer pre-cut foam mats for common tank sizes, making it easy to find one that fits your aquarium. Before you fill your new tank, slip a protective mat underneath – you’ll have greater confidence that your aquarium has a safe, cushioned place to live.

Automatic Fish Feeder – Consistent Feeding Made Easy

Feeding your fish is one of the joys of owning an aquarium. But what happens on days when you’re away, busy, or simply forget? Irregular feeding schedules can cause stress for your fish (and guilt for you). An automatic fish feeder is an accessory many newcomers don’t consider initially, but once you have one, you’ll wonder how you managed without it.

An automatic feeder is a small device that you load with fish food (flakes, pellets, etc.), and it dispenses controlled portions into the tank at set times of the day. This ensures your aquatic friends get fed on a consistent schedule even when you’re not around. For example, if you leave for a weekend trip or have a busy workday, your fish won’t have to wait or be overfed. Consistent, measured feeding is healthier for fish – it prevents overeating and helps maintain good water quality by avoiding excess food waste.

Modern automatic feeders often come with digital timers, and some even have Wi-Fi connectivity or smartphone apps, allowing you to adjust feeding times from your phone. Imagine being on vacation and still being able to check that your fish are fed each day! While high-tech feeders are optional, even a basic feeder gives peace of mind that your pets are cared for daily. It’s especially useful if you have a habit of forgetting whether you fed them (no more double-feeding uncertainty).

Using an auto-feeder doesn’t mean you can’t also hand-feed or interact with your fish. You can still enjoy watching them eat when you’re home. The feeder just ensures they never miss a meal. Many models allow multiple feedings per day and portion control, which can be important if you have fish that require small frequent meals. It’s an inexpensive gadget, but the convenience and consistency it provides make it a must-have once you try it. Many aquarium supply shops stock automatic feeders among their accessories, making it easy to find one that suits your tank’s needs.

Aquarium Surface Skimmer – Crystal Clear Water Surface

Have you ever noticed a thin oily film or dust collecting on the surface of your aquarium water? Many beginners are puzzled by this and might try to scoop it out or ignore it. That slick on the surface isn’t just unsightly – it can actually hinder oxygen exchange between the air and the water, and it blocks light from entering the tank. This is where an aquarium surface skimmer becomes an incredibly handy accessory you might not have known you needed.

A surface skimmer is a device that attaches to your tank (either as part of your filter system or a small standalone unit) and draws water from the very top layer of the aquarium. It effectively sucks in that oily film, along with any floating debris like dust, bits of plants, or uneaten food. The skimmer then sends this water through filtration (or into a filter’s intake) and returns clean water back into the tank. The result is a crystal clear surface that allows maximum oxygen absorption and light penetration.

Why does this matter? Fish and beneficial bacteria in your tank need oxygen, which primarily enters water at the surface. If a greasy film is covering the top, less oxygen dissolves into the water. Some fish, like bettas and gouramis, can gulp air from the surface, but they still benefit from clean water with plenty of oxygen. Additionally, if you have an aquarium light, a clear surface means more light reaches your plants and makes your tank look brighter.

Surface skimmers are especially popular in planted aquariums and saltwater setups, but they work for any tank where surface film is an issue. They usually have an adjustable floating intake to accommodate varying water levels. Installation is simple, and maintenance just involves occasionally cleaning the collected gunk. It’s one of those gadgets you might not think about until you see that annoying film and wonder how to get rid of it. Once you install a surface skimmer, the improvement is immediate – your water has that polished, mirror-like look. You’ll be glad you added this accessory to keep your aquatic environment healthy and looking its best.

Water Test Kit and Monitors – Keeping Water Parameters in Check

As a new fishkeeper, you’ve probably heard that maintaining good water quality is key to a healthy aquarium. But how do you actually know what’s going on in that water? Many beginners skip testing their water regularly, not realizing its importance until a problem (like mysterious algae, sick fish, or cloudy water) occurs. A water test kit is an essential accessory for monitoring your tank’s health, and it’s definitely something you’ll be grateful to have in your toolkit.

A typical freshwater master test kit includes tests for ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH at minimum. These parameters are crucial: ammonia and nitrite should be zero (they are toxic byproducts of fish waste), nitrates should be kept low through regular water changes, and pH needs to be stable in the range your fish prefer. By testing weekly (or at least monthly), you can catch spikes in ammonia or other issues early, before they harm your fish. For example, if your filter media is clogged or a fish has died out of sight, ammonia might rise – a test will alert you to take action. Without a kit, you’re essentially flying blind.

In addition to chemical test kits (usually liquid drop tests or test strips), there are digital monitors available. These range from simple digital thermometers and pH pens to more advanced electronic sensors that constantly read things like temperature, pH, TDS (total dissolved solids), or even ammonia. Digital testers can provide quick readings with the press of a button, which some hobbyists find convenient. For instance, a digital pH meter can be more precise than trying to match colors on a test kit chart.

However, for most beginners, a basic liquid test kit is the best starting point and is quite affordable. Make sure to get one and learn how to use it – it’s easier than it looks and usually comes with clear instructions. You’ll feel more confident as an aquarist when you can verify that your water is healthy. Think of it as an early warning system and a way to understand your tank’s nitrogen cycle. Many fish issues are water-quality related, so having this accessory at hand can literally save fish lives. Don’t wait until there’s a problem; by testing your water regularly, you become a more proactive and successful fishkeeper.

Gravel Vacuum (Siphon) – Effortless Tank Cleaning

When it comes to aquarium maintenance, water changes and cleaning the substrate are tasks you can’t avoid. Yet many beginners don’t know the easiest way to do this. Enter the gravel vacuum, also known as an aquarium siphon. If you’ve been using a cup or jug to scoop water out, or if debris is accumulating in your gravel, this is the accessory that will revolutionize your tank maintenance routine.

A gravel vacuum is a simple device: usually a plastic tube attached to a longer hose. By priming it (either with a small hand pump or a quick suction to start the siphon), water will start flowing out of your tank and into a bucket, dragging waste along with it. The wide end of the vacuum tube is designed to be plunged into the gravel bed. As water is drawn through it, it lifts and stirs the gravel, sucking out fish waste, uneaten food, and dead plant bits, while the gravel itself tumbles within the tube and falls back down. It’s like vacuuming a carpet – except the “dirt” is removed with the water.

Using a siphon has multiple benefits. First, it makes partial water changes a breeze. You can remove, say, 20% of the tank water while simultaneously cleaning the substrate. This kills two birds with one stone (water change + tank cleaning). Second, it prevents harmful waste build-up. Debris trapped in gravel will break down and pollute the water if not removed. A clean substrate means healthier water and happier fish. Also, by removing decaying organics, you help prevent algae blooms that would feed on those excess nutrients.

Many newcomers are intimidated by the idea of siphoning, but once you try it, you’ll find it’s straightforward. There are even “python” style water changer kits that can attach to a faucet, allowing you to drain and refill directly without lugging buckets. But even a basic manual siphon does wonders for tank upkeep. It’s definitely an accessory you don’t think about when setting up your first aquarium, but after your first major cleanup day, you’ll wish you had one from the start. Do yourself a favor and get a gravel vacuum early – your future self (and your fish) will thank you.

Algae Scraper or Magnetic Cleaner – Easy Glass Cleaning

Peering into a beautiful aquarium is a delight – until you notice the glass is covered in green specks or a hazy film of algae. Algae build-up on the tank walls is extremely common, and every aquarium gets it to some degree. New aquarists might be tempted to use a kitchen sponge or a random scraper to clean it, but these can scratch the glass or introduce soap residue (a big no-no). The right tool for this job is an aquarium algae scraper or magnetic glass cleaner, an accessory that makes cleaning the viewing panels of your tank safe and easy.

Algae scrapers come in a few forms. One popular type is the magnetic cleaner: it’s a two-piece device with one magnet going inside the tank (with a cleaning pad attached) and the other magnet on the outside. When you slide the outer magnet, the inner one follows, scrubbing the glass inside without you getting your hands wet. It’s brilliant – you can stand in front of your tank and wipe off algae as if you’re cleaning a window, even in those high or deep spots you’d struggle to reach by hand. If the scraper part accidentally comes off the magnet, many float to the surface for easy retrieval.

Another type is a long-handled scraper or pad. These have a handle that keeps your arm out of the water while you scrub. Some have interchangeable heads (soft pads or razor blades) to gently shear off tough algae like green spot algae without scratching the glass or acrylic. Make sure to choose the right type for your tank material – acrylic aquariums need softer plastic blades, as metal can scratch them.

Having an algae scraper means you’ll never dread the sight of that green film on the glass. In a matter of minutes, you can clear up the walls and restore a clear view of your fish and aquascape. For best results, use it regularly – a quick swipe every few days can prevent algae from building up too much. It’s much easier to remove light algae than a heavy crust. This accessory is inexpensive and lasts a long time. Once it’s part of your maintenance kit, you’ll be glad how much it simplifies keeping your aquarium display crystal clear.

Aquarium Thermometer – Precise Temperature Control

Maintaining the right water temperature is crucial for fish health. Most beginners know that if you have tropical fish, you need a heater to keep the water warm. Heaters usually have a dial or built-in thermostat that you set to a desired temperature. So, why would you need a separate aquarium thermometer? It turns out this small accessory can save you big headaches, because it provides a second opinion on what the actual water temperature is.

Aquarium thermometers come in a few styles: stick-on strips that go on the outside glass, digital displays with a probe, or simple floating/suction-cup analog thermometers. Any type can work, but digital ones tend to be very accurate and easy to read. The key is placing it where you can easily check the tank’s temperature at a glance. Why is this important? Because heaters are not foolproof. They can malfunction – some get stuck “on” and overheat the water, others fail and let the water cool too much. Or, the heater’s dial might not match the real temperature (for example, you set it to 24°C but the water is actually only 22°C, or vice versa).

If you rely solely on the heater’s setting, you might not notice a problem until your fish are sluggish (too cold) or gasping at the surface (too hot due to low oxygen). A thermometer lets you verify the temperature independently. By checking it daily, you quickly spot if it’s outside the safe range for your fish. This early warning can save your fish from stress or even death due to temperature shock. In the event something is off, you can adjust the heater or replace it if it’s broken.

Even for coldwater fish (like goldfish), knowing the room temperature versus the tank temperature is useful, especially during seasonal changes. And if you’re doing things like acclimating new fish or mixing saltwater for a marine tank, a thermometer is essential to ensure the new water matches.

Thermometers are cheap and easy to install, so there’s little reason not to have one. It’s definitely one of those accessories that new aquarists might overlook when shopping, but will be very happy to have once their tank is running. Consider it an insurance policy for your fish’s comfort and safety.

Battery Backup Air Pump – Emergency Lifesaver

Aquariums rely on equipment like filters and aerators to keep water oxygenated and clean. But what happens if there’s a power outage? This scenario might not cross your mind until it happens – maybe a storm knocks out electricity for several hours, or a fuse blows while you’re out. Without power, filters stop, water flow ceases, and oxygen levels in the tank can drop dangerously, especially if you have a lot of fish. A battery backup air pump is an accessory you hope you never need, but when you do, you’ll be incredibly glad to have it.

A battery-powered air pump is a simple device that runs on batteries (some are rechargeable, others use replaceable D-cells). You attach an airline and air stone to it and place the stone in your aquarium. In normal times, it stays off. But when the power goes out, you can turn it on to start bubbling air into the water. This bubbling action agitates the surface and adds oxygen to the tank, buying you time until power returns. Some advanced models are even smart – they detect when the AC power stops and automatically kick on the air pump on battery.

Why is this important? Fish can survive a surprising range of conditions for a short time, but lack of oxygen isn’t one of them. In still water, fish (and beneficial bacteria) can begin to suffocate after just an hour or two, depending on the tank size, stocking, and temperature. Warmer water holds less oxygen, so tropical tanks in hot weather are especially at risk. Having a backup air source helps maintain oxygen and at least some water circulation, keeping your tank alive until normal filtration can resume.

Beyond aeration, it’s good practice to have a contingency plan for longer outages too – like wrapping the tank in blankets to hold heat if it’s winter, or manually stirring the water occasionally. But those are hard to do if you aren’t home or are asleep. A battery air pump provides an automatic safeguard, at least for oxygenation. It’s a small investment for potentially saving your entire aquarium during an emergency.

Many fishkeepers, after experiencing one power outage, immediately buy one of these for next time. So why wait? Get one beforehand. Store it near your tank (and check the batteries occasionally). You’ll sleep better on stormy nights knowing you have a lifeline for your fish if the lights go out.

Aquarium Lid or Cover – Prevent Jumpers and Reduce Evaporation

If your aquarium didn’t come with a lid or cover, you might think you can get by without one. After all, open-top tanks are a trendy look and allow more air exchange, right? The truth is, having an aquarium lid (cover glass or a hood) is often more beneficial than not, especially for beginners. It’s an accessory you might not appreciate until that fateful day you find a beloved fish has jumped out, or you notice half your tank water has evaporated in a week.

Many fish are capable of jumping, sometimes with astonishing speed and height. This isn’t just limited to known jumpers like hatchetfish or certain gobies; even bettas, goldfish, and others can leap when startled or during feeding. A secure lid keeps your aquatic friends in the aquarium where they belong. It’s heartbreaking to discover a dried-up fish on the floor because the tank was open-top. A cover acts as a simple barrier to prevent such tragedies. Just make sure any gaps (for filter hoses or heater cords) are covered too, because small fish can find surprisingly tiny escape holes.

Lids also significantly reduce evaporation. In a heated tank, water is constantly evaporating; with an open top, you might need to top off the tank every few days to maintain the water level. If you’re away for a while, evaporation can even expose equipment (like heaters or filter intakes), causing them to malfunction. By covering the tank, you trap moisture so it condenses and drips back in, keeping the water level much more stable. This is particularly important for marine tanks (to keep salinity stable) but it matters in freshwater as well.

Another benefit is that covers keep out dust and foreign objects. You won’t accidentally drop something into the aquarium, and household dust or aerosols (like spray cleaners or air fresheners) are less likely to settle into the water. A lid also dampens noise from bubbling equipment and reduces water splashing.

If you’re worried about aesthetics or gas exchange, consider using a clear glass lid or a mesh screen cover. Glass lids maintain an open view and can be slid or lifted for feeding and maintenance. Mesh tops (more common for saltwater reef tanks) stop jumpers while maximizing airflow. Either way, having a barrier is usually safer for your fish.

When buying a lid, ensure it fits your tank’s dimensions or is made for your aquarium model. Many aquarium retailers (including MB Store UK) offer covers or aquarium hoods separately if your tank didn’t include one. It’s a modest addition that can prevent big problems, making it well worth it in the long run.

Power Strip with Timer – Organize and Automate Your Equipment

As you accumulate aquarium gadgets – filter, heater, lighting, air pump, maybe a UV sterilizer – you’ll find your tank area has quite the tangle of cords. Juggling all this equipment can be a hassle, and turning things on/off at the right times (especially lights) becomes a daily task. This is where a specialized power strip with a timer (or using smart plugs) can make your life a whole lot easier.

First, a quality power strip (or surge protector) is almost a necessity if you have more than a couple of devices. It provides a safe, grounded way to plug in multiple pieces of equipment, ideally with surge protector features to shield them from voltage spikes. But beyond just a plain strip, look for one that has built-in timer functionality or use a simple plug-in timer for your lights. Consistent lighting schedules are important for fish and plants – too much or too little light can stress fish and affect plant growth (and fuel algae). With an automatic timer, you can set your aquarium lights to turn on and off on a routine (for example, on at 8 AM, off at 8 PM daily) so you don’t have to remember it every day. No more worrying if you’re home late or forget to turn the lamp off at night.

There are also advanced options like smart power strips or Wi-Fi plugs that let you control outlets via a phone app or voice assistant. Imagine being able to turn off your filter or CO2 system with your phone when you’re about to do a water change, or scheduling an air pump to run only at night – convenient, right? Some power strips even have individual switches for each outlet, which is handy when you want to temporarily shut off certain devices (for instance, turn off the filter and heater during a water change to prevent damage) without unplugging everything.

Another safety tip: make sure to create a “drip loop” with all power cords (let each cord sag down below the outlet before rising up to plug in). This way, if any water runs down a cord, it drips off at the low point instead of running into the electrical outlet. Mounting your power strip up off the floor and away from any possible splashes is also wise.

By organizing your aquarium electronics with a good power strip and automating the lighting (or other devices), you’ll create a cleaner, safer setup. It’s one of those behind-the-scenes accessories that makes managing your tank simpler. Rather than fumbling with plugs or forgetting to turn things on and off, let the equipment work on autopilot. Your future self will thank you – and so will your fish, who will enjoy a consistent day-night cycle even if you’re not around.

Aquascaping Tools (Tongs and Scissors) – Precision Aquarium Gardening

Aquarium hobbyists who keep live plants or carefully arranged decor soon find out that using your bare hands for every task isn’t ideal. You try to plant a delicate stem with your fingers, and it floats back up. You want to trim a plant neatly, but regular scissors are too big and can rust. That ornament in the back fell over, but you’d have to submerge half your arm to reach it. Sound familiar? Aquascaping tools – namely long tweezers (tongs) and curved aquarium scissors – are accessories you might not start with, but they quickly become indispensable for maintaining your aquascape with finesse.

Aquascaping tongs are like elongated, slender forceps that allow you to grip items underwater with precision. They come in various lengths (often 10 to 15 inches, and even longer for very deep tanks). With these, you can easily insert plant roots into the substrate, place fertilizer tablets in the gravel, or pick up fallen leaves and decor without disturbing your layout. You stay mostly dry, and you can reach corners and depth that your hand alone can’t comfortably get to.

Aquarium trimming scissors, especially the curved-tip versions, make pruning plants a breeze. The curved blades let you get a good angle on carpeting plants (like a foreground grass you want to mow evenly) or snip a stem plant way at the back without uprooting it. They are typically stainless steel, so if you rinse and dry them after use, they’ll resist rust and last a long time. Using proper aquatic scissors ensures a clean cut on plant stems (jagged tears from household scissors or pinching can lead to plant damage). They also help in trimming aquarium mosses off driftwood or pruning roots during plant re-potting, all with much greater control.

Beyond plants, these tools are useful for coral placement in reef tanks, arranging rocks and driftwood during the initial setup, and even feeding or handling creatures in deeper terrariums or paludariums. Some aquascaping tool kits also include a flat spatula-like tool for smoothing sand or gravel – great for leveling your substrate or making precise hills and valleys in an aquascape design.

While you can get by without these tools, having them turns many tedious chores into quick, enjoyable tasks. It’s like the difference between trying to fix a tiny screw with a butter knife versus using a proper screwdriver – so much easier and cleaner. Many beginners don’t realize these tools exist or think they’re only for advanced aquascapers, but once you use them, you’ll love the convenience and precision. If you dream of a gorgeous planted tank or just want to keep your aquarium looking tidy, aquascaping tools are a must-have accessory that will make your life easier.

Fish Net – Handy for More Than You Think

The classic image of a fishkeeper usually includes a little green or blue net in hand. Surprisingly, new tank owners sometimes forget to buy a fish net when gathering supplies, or they assume it’s only needed if you’re catching fish to move them. In reality, a net is a multipurpose tool that you’ll find yourself reaching for often – and not just for chasing fish (which, by the way, you should do sparingly to avoid stressing them).

Firstly, when you do need to transfer fish – say, from the bag to the tank, or from the tank to a quarantine container – a soft, fine-mesh net is the gentlest way to do so. It supports the fish’s body and reduces the risk of injury compared to trying to grab them or pour them out. It also lets water drain away so you can avoid adding potentially dirty transport water into your tank. Using a net for catching fish does take a bit of skill; pro tip: move slowly and calmly, and sometimes guiding a fish into a second net or cornering them works better than a frantic chase around the tank.

Beyond fish wrangling, nets are very useful for removing debris. Have some leaves or plant clippings floating on the surface? Did a bit of food go uneaten and start bobbing around? Scoop it out with the net. Some people even use a net to gently skim off a light film on the surface before it becomes a bigger problem (though a surface skimmer, as mentioned, is even better for that). If a fish unfortunately dies, a net allows you to remove it from the tank hygienically and with minimal disturbance to the other fish.

Nets also help during tank maintenance. For example, when doing a water change, you might use a net to catch any stray leaves or snails that get sucked partway down the siphon tube. If you’re rescaping the tank and need to temporarily hold fish, you can float them in the tank inside a big net for a short time as an alternative to bagging them.

It’s good to have a couple of nets of different sizes: a smaller one for tight spaces or quick scooping, and a larger one for bigger fish or to herd fish into. Choose nets with fine, soft mesh so they don’t damage fins or scales, and rinse them after use.

All in all, this simple tool proves its worth time and time again. It’s cheap, doesn’t take up much space, and you’ll be relieved to have one when you unexpectedly need to catch that fast-moving guppy or remove some gunk floating in the water. Don’t skip the fish net – it’s truly an aquarium accessory that no aquarist should be without.

Dedicated Aquarium Bucket and Towels – Mess Management 101

Anyone who’s kept an aquarium for a while knows that spills and wet messes are part of the hobby. Water changes, filter cleanings, aquascaping sessions – at some point, you will get water on the floor or down the side of the tank. That’s why one of the most practical “accessories” to have is a dedicated aquarium bucket and a couple of towels reserved just for aquarium use. These might not be high-tech gadgets, but they are unsung heroes in your fishkeeping routine.

Why a dedicated bucket? You should never use a bucket that has had detergents, soaps, or household chemicals in it for your aquarium water. Even trace residues of cleaning agents can be toxic to fish and invertebrates. By having a brand-new bucket (or one clearly labeled for aquarium use only), you ensure your water change water is clean and safe. A standard 5-gallon plastic bucket works great. Use it to mix new saltwater (if you have a marine tank), to carry water to and from the sink during changes, or as a temporary container for holding decorations (or even fish, during a big tank overhaul). Since it’s only for aquarium use, you don’t have to worry that a bit of soap or bleach from other chores might linger and harm your fish.

Now, about those towels – it’s wise to keep a couple of old towels on hand whenever you do maintenance. Lay one on the floor next to your tank to catch drips as you siphon water out or work inside the aquarium. Have another towel handy for your hands or to wipe up any splashes on the stand. By containing the mess, you protect your floors and furniture from water damage (your family or roommates will thank you!). Plus, if you ever need to set a wet filter part or tool down, you can place it on a towel instead of directly on a surface.

An extra tip: use a clean microfiber cloth to wipe down the glass after a water change. This will remove water spots and fingerprints, leaving your tank crystal clear. Paper towels can work in a pinch, but they often leave lint.

In short, the bucket-and-towel combo is all about being prepared and keeping things tidy. New aquarists often underestimate how much water can drip during routine tasks. Having these basic items at the ready makes those chores smoother and prevents a lot of “oops!” moments. It’s not a question of if you’ll spill – it’s when. So grab a dedicated bucket and a couple of fish-only towels early on. You’ll definitely be glad to have them every time you roll up your sleeves to work on the tank.

FAQ

Q: What are the most important accessories for a beginner’s aquarium?
A: Aside from the basic equipment (tank, filter, heater, light, and substrate), important accessories for beginners include a water conditioner (to dechlorinate tap water), a water test kit (to monitor water quality), a gravel vacuum (for easy cleaning and water changes), an algae scraper (to keep the glass clean), and a fish net (for moving fish or removing debris). These are the core items that will help keep your aquarium healthy and tidy. As you progress, you can add other helpful tools like an automatic feeder or aquascaping tools, but the ones listed above are the first you’ll want to have on hand.

Q: How often should I use a gravel vacuum to clean my fish tank?
A: For most aquariums, doing a partial water change with a gravel vacuum about once a week or once every two weeks is ideal. During this routine, you’ll remove around 20–30% of the water while siphoning debris out of the substrate. However, the frequency can depend on your tank’s bio-load (how many fish you have and how messy they are) and whether you have live plants. Tanks with lots of fish or no live plants might need weekly cleaning, whereas a lightly stocked, heavily planted tank could go longer between vacuumings. The key is to monitor your water parameters and the visible waste in the tank – if nitrates are climbing or mulm (gunk) is accumulating on the gravel, it’s time to vacuum.

Q: My aquarium water looks clear, so do I still need to test it regularly?
A: Yes. Clear water can be deceiving – it doesn’t always mean the water quality is good. Toxic substances like ammonia and nitrite are invisible, and nitrate buildup won’t make the water cloudy until it’s very high (and even then, the water might still look clear to the eye). Regularly testing your water (at least once a week in a new tank, and once a month in an established tank, or any time something seems “off”) is important to catch problems early. A test kit lets you ensure the nitrogen cycle is functioning properly and that your tank has a stable pH. Even experienced aquarists test their water routinely because it’s the only way to truly “see” the condition of the water. Think of water tests as a basic health check-up for your aquarium.

Q: What should I do to prepare for a power outage affecting my aquarium?
A: It’s smart to have an emergency plan. A battery-powered air pump is one of the simplest and most effective safeguards – it will keep oxygen flowing in the tank if the main filter and aeration shut down. Make sure it’s accessible (and that you have fresh batteries on hand). For longer outages, you might consider a backup power source (like a UPS or generator) to run critical equipment, especially if you have sensitive species or very low temperatures to maintain. In cold weather, wrapping the tank in blankets can help hold in heat. Avoid feeding the fish during a power outage (less food means less waste and a lower oxygen demand). Most fish can survive a day or two without food much better than they can handle stagnant water with no oxygen. By planning ahead with a backup air pump and a few supplies, you’ll greatly improve your aquarium’s chances of weathering a blackout without losses.

Q: Can I leave my fish for a week while on vacation if I use an automatic feeder?
A: Generally, yes – an automatic feeder can reliably feed your fish for a week or even longer, making it a great solution for vacations. There are a few caveats: test the feeder for a couple of days before you leave to ensure it’s dispensing the right amount of food (not too much or too little). Make sure the food you use in it won’t spoil – most dry foods like pellets and flakes are fine for at least a week in a feeder. It’s also wise to perform a water change before you go, so the water quality is as good as possible (that way, even if a bit of excess food ends up in the tank, it’s less likely to cause water issues). Many aquarists successfully use auto-feeders for trips. If you have very delicate fish or fry, you might still prefer to have someone check on them mid-week, but for a typical community tank, an auto-feeder plus a little prep work is usually all you need. Just remember to resume your normal feeding routine (and turn off or refill the feeder) when you return.

Q: Are all these accessories necessary for a small tank, like a betta tank?
A: The fundamental needs of any aquarium are similar, but you can scale the accessories to tank size. For a small betta tank (for example, 5–10 gallons), you still need the basics: a filter, heater (if it’s a tropical setup), thermometer to monitor temperature, light, and regular water changes. A mini gravel vacuum will help with cleaning a small tank. You should still use a water conditioner for tap water and have a test kit to monitor ammonia, etc., because smaller volumes can change water quality quickly. While you might not need a large battery backup or a big power strip for a tiny tank, having a timer for the light or an automatic feeder can be just as useful for a small aquarium. A lid is definitely recommended for betta tanks (bettas are known to jump on occasion). So, most of the accessories discussed can apply to small tanks, just in smaller or scaled-down form. The key is to keep up with maintenance – small tanks can actually require more diligence because there’s less room for error. With the right tools scaled to your nano tank, even beginner-friendly pets like bettas will thrive and you’ll find maintenance easier.