Best Way To Clean A Tank?

[Hollyweb]

I have a small 3 gallon tank that has given me nothing but trouble since I set it up. I have lost 3 bettas in it and now some baby guppies and I'm starting to wonder if my tank is cursed or something. Lol. Anyway, I've discovered that the ammonia out of my tap tests at about 0.5 ppm. The nitrites and nitrates in that tank are fine and the water temp is at 78 f. I don't really know what to do other than maybe cleaning the tank from top to bottom in case there is something in the gravel.

My roommate suggested boiling the decor and gravel but I don't know if that's safe? What's the best way to clean a tank?

I have done several water changes including a 100% change about a week ago but I continue to have trouble with it.

 

[guppy2002]

take the tank outside and clean it with a hose and sponge. you can boil the decor, it is safe. but I mostly run it under sink water and scrub that with your fingers and a sponge too. make sure you cycle the tank before re-adding the fish. hope this helped!

 

[jeffadams]

You can use vinager and mix it with water to clean it It is 100% natural. Make sure not to use hot water on your tank which may damge the seals. You can soak it for a few days or just use a nylon scrubber to clean everything.

 

[Zante]

I would say that 3 gallons is too small for fish. I wouldn't keep a betta in anything less than 10 gallons.

 

[guppy2002]

I would say 3 gallons is the bare minimum. as long as there are plenty of plants and other stuff. bettas do not LIKE small spaces. I have mine in 5 gallons.