For medium or small-sized scratches, using toothpaste or nail polish can be an effective method for removing scratches from aquarium glass. But for deeper scratches, these methods may not work.To fix deeper scratches, some advanced tools and chemicals are necessary.
Moreover, not all methods are applicable to both glass and acrylic aquariums. So, you must know which method is suitable for you and how to complete it properly. So, let’s see the most popular methods along with their pros and cons.
How to remove scratches from Aquarium Glass?
There are several methods for removing scratches from aquarium glass. Mostly, these work fine for small scratches. For deep scratches, you may need to take other measures.
However, for removing scratches that can’t be felt with fingertips, the following methods can be highly effective.
Using Toothpaste and baking soda
Teeth whitening paste is one of the most popular substances used for the scratch removal process. This method is useful for both glass and acrylic aquariums. The process is also very easy to follow.
First, you have to clean the scratched surface. Then apply a little bit of paste to it. Adding some baking powder to the paste can enhance the final result.
Then, with a soft microfiber cloth, start rubbing the paste over the scratches.
Once you’re satisfied with the cleaning, remove the excess paste and let the surface dry for 10-20 minutes. Then observe whether the scratches are gone or not. You can repeat the process if required.
This method is too easy to follow, and you do not even need to buy any tools or chemicals. However, it may not work for deeper scratches.
Using Nail Polish & remover
Nail Polish itself and nail polish remover both are widely used for removing scratches from aquarium glass. This method is especially helpful for glass aquariums.
First, all you need is clear nail polish. Then clear the scratched surface and gently apply the nail polish exactly from a 90-degree angle to the scratches.
You can use your fingers or a soft pad for applying it. Then let it dry for an hour. Finally, clean it with nail polish remover first and later with water and see the result.
Nail Polish doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals or toxic substances. That’s why these methods are friendly for beginners and for those who are trying to fix the scratches at home.
Using colorful nail polish may ruin the aesthetics of your aquarium. So, be careful about that.
Cerium oxide polish
This method is really effective for small and medium-sized scratches. Generally, Cerium oxide is used for polishing glass aquariums, not acrylic ones. The methods of polishing with Cerium Oxide are really simple, too.
First, remove water from the part where you’ll apply cerium oxide. Then, after primary cleaning, apply the cerium oxide on a pad.
Experts recommend using a drill that will rotate the pad over the scratched surface in a circular motion at a moderate speed.
If the surface gets hot, spray some water for cooling. When the result is satisfactory, stop the process and clean it.
This method is great for small scratches. The cost of Cerium oxide is also not so high and is widely available.
So, you can easily afford and apply this technique. However, You must ensure that the chemical does not mix with the water inside the aquarium.
Liquid glass resin
This method is basically used for fixing a car’s glass or windshield. But you can also use it for aquariums. Though this process is not so convenient for removing aquarium scratches, it can be helpful sometimes.
First, clean the glass surface properly, and make sure to clean it with an alcohol pad to remove any cleaning chemicals. Then mix the glass resin as per the instructions on the packet.
You can use a syringe to apply the resin to the starches, but never pour -over it over the surface. Later, dry it for 24 hours, and then clean it again.
The best part of this method is that it doesn’t distort the clarity of the glass. S
o, you can use it for medium-sized scratches without hampering the look or transparency of the glass. You can buy these in most online shops.
Tips To Remember While Removing Scratch From Aquarium Glass
Just choosing any of the mentioned methods of removing scratches and starting work immediately may not be a wise decision. Before taking action, you must remember some tips.
Otherwise, the whole process can be harmful and damage both the aquarium and the fish inside it. So, let’s see the tips first.
- Make sure to choose the specific method that you’re going to use that will be most useful for your particular situation. Don’t jump from one method to another.
- Don’t use any abrasive cleaning materials, as they could cause more damage to the glass.
- Never use window cleaner for cleaning the inner surface of the aquarium. These can be toxic and even fatal for the life inside the aquarium.
- Before rubbing with cloths or scrubber, which must be soft, make sure there is no dirt, debris, or sand particles on the glass surface. Otherwise, they can create more scratches.
- After each cleaning or completing any particular method, always completely dry the whole aquarium.
- Use goggles, a mask, and hand gloves to prevent any injury during scratch removal. Small glass particles that may be produced while rubbing the scratches can be extremely severe if inhaled.
How To Remove Deep Scratches From Aquarium Glass?
Well, honestly, not every scratch can be fixed by the previously mentioned procedures. If the scratches on the aquarium are deep enough, you may have to follow some other methods. So now, let’s see what we can do if the scratches are deeper than normal.
- You can use some filler material like fiberglass or epoxy resin to fill the deep scratches, then gently clean them with soap and water. Thus, the scratches will be less visible, and the aquarium will also look good.
- A professional glass worker may be helpful in some cases. So, depending on the severity of the scratches, you can also hire a service provider to fix the scratches.
- If the scratches are too deep and can’t be fixed at all, you can think of changing the individual panels of the aquarium. Then it will cost you way less than changing the whole aquarium.
- However, if any of the above-mentioned techniques cost you more than buying a new aquarium, don’t hesitate, just go for it since you should not compromise the aesthetics of your aquarium.
How To Prevent Scratches On Aquarium Glass?
Though there are several methods for removing scratches from an aquarium, there are no hard and fast rules to prevent scratches. However, the following tips may be helpful for this purpose.
- Always use soft microfiber cloth for rubbing or cleaning the aquarium, no matter whether it’s made of glass or acrylic. You can use advanced scrubber tools available on the market.
- There is a misconception that cleaning dirt with a razor blade can create scratches on the glass surface. But it’s not true at all. You can use an ideal razor blade or credit card (or other slim and hard cards) for cleaning.
- The main reason behind scratches while cleaning is the small dirt particles, sand, etc. on the surface. Such particles get stuck between the glass and the blade or card while rubbing and create scratches.
- Never place your aquariums just beside any other hard surfaces like walls, metallic objects, etc. Otherwise, while moving the aquarium, it can get scratched if it gets touched by harder surfaces.
FAQs
For beginners, maintaining an aquarium and protecting it can be both confusing and challenging. Here are some frequently asked questions answered that will be helpful for beginners.
Can toothpaste remove scratches from aquarium glass?
Yes! Toothpaste can remove scratches from both acrylic and glass aquariums. A little baking soda mixed with toothpaste can also enhance the result. You have to gently apply the paste and some water over the scratched surface.
How do you polish old aquarium glass?
For polishing old aquarium glass you can use vinegar and water solution in the first place. Then rub the inner surface to all the dirt and dark spots. On the outside surface, you may spray window cleaner before starting to rub for better results. But never use such sprays inside the aquarium since they mostly contain toxic chemicals.
Are acrylic aquariums better than glass?
Glass aquariums are more affordable, sustainable, and scratch resistant. On the other hand, Acrylic aquariums are lightweight, stronger, and better for large-scale aquariums. However, for beginners, experts suggest starting with glass aquariums.
Final words
Removing scratches from aquarium glass can be challenging if not done carefully and without prior experience. So, before stepping into any particular method, studying it properly is recommended.
Regular cleaning and polishing can prevent scratches from occurring. Though small scratches can be fixed easily, for deeper scratches, professional help is necessary.