To clean aquarium rocks and driftwood, remove loose debris with a siphon or brush, then scrub nuisance algae with a clean toothbrush or stiff aquarium-only brush. Use plain water, removed tank water or dechlorinated water. Avoid soap. Driftwood may naturally darken, soften slightly and grow biofilm; those changes do not automatically mean it needs replacing.
Rocks and wood quickly become part of the aquarium's living surface. They collect biofilm, algae and microorganisms, so the goal is usually selective cleaning rather than making them look brand new.
Clean in place when possible
Use a toothbrush and siphon to remove visible waste without dismantling the aquascape. This is easier on fish and preserves stable hiding places.
Remove pieces only when necessary
If a rock or piece of wood has heavy nuisance algae, remove it carefully and scrub it in a bucket. Keep large structural pieces stable and avoid collapsing stacked hardscape.
Driftwood biofilm is often temporary
New driftwood commonly develops pale bacterial or fungal-looking biofilm. It is usually harmless and often disappears or is eaten by grazing animals.
Remove it mechanically if you dislike the appearance rather than assuming the wood is rotten.
Do not use soap
Porous rock and wood can retain residues. Household detergents have no place on items that will go back into aquarium water.
Inspect while you clean
- Check rocks for cracks or instability.
- Make sure driftwood has not shifted.
- Remove trapped food and dead plant matter underneath.
- Look for sharp edges exposed by movement.
- Confirm livestock cannot become trapped behind the hardscape.
Frequently asked questions
Should I boil aquarium driftwood?
Boiling can help new small pieces sink or release tannins, but large or established wood usually only needs mechanical cleaning.
Can I scrub all algae off rocks?
You can, but a light natural film is not harmful and may provide grazing.
How often should hardscape be cleaned?
When debris or nuisance algae accumulates; there is no fixed schedule.
Sources and further reading
This guide separates general aquarium arithmetic from fish-welfare decisions. For species-specific limits, always check the needs of the fish you intend to keep.