How to Remove Scratches From Glass Aquarium Using Toothpaste: Method and Alternatives
There are several methods available to remove scratches from glass aquariums. But you can use toothpaste to do the job in a very easy and affordable way. You can use this method not only for removing scratches but also for cleaning the aquarium, as well as its surfaces. Toothpaste is an amazing natural product that works in similar ways as household cleaners and cleaners for glass.
In this article, we will discuss how you can use toothpaste to remove scratches from glass aquariums and as a bonus, we will also share some alternatives aside from toothpaste. So, keep reading!
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Using Toothpaste to Remove Scratches From Glass Aquarium
Using toothpaste is a great way to easily clean your glass aquarium and prevent it from getting damaged due to scratching. In addition, applying the right amount of toothpaste will help protect the structural integrity of your hardware.
Toothpaste perfectly cleans glass aquariums naturally and it will be easy for you to remove scratches from many types of polished or stained surfaces. The composition of toothpaste is phosphate, bicarbonate, fluoride and silica-free. It removes stains from the surface easily without harming animals that live symbiotically on those tanks like corals or fish in them. Toothpaste promotes quick healing process by absorbing bacteria which cause these kinds of injuries.
It also enhances natural cleaning process to remove stains and spots from the surfaces. It is mainly used every time you clean your tank or aquarium because of its efficient chemical composition which has a high pH level like antiseptic effect.
How to Remove Scratches From Glass Aquarium Using Toothpaste
Step 1: Clean Your Glass Aquarium
First, make sure that your glass aquarium is dry. If not, wipe it with a damp sponge or rag. Make sure that your glass aquarium is free of any loose dirt or other debris. Moreover, make sure that your glass aquarium is free of any fingerprints or smudges.
Step 2: Apply the Toothpaste
Take a small amount of toothpaste and apply it to the scratches on the glass aquarium. Using a clean cloth, gently rub toothpaste on the scratches and remove any stains that may be present. Make sure that you wipe it in an upward motion as this will prevent scratching your glass aquarium further. In addition, you can also use a soft cloth to wipe the toothpaste off.
Step 3: Leave the Glass Aquarium to Dry
f you have applied toothpaste to the scratches, make sure that you wipe it off with a clean cloth. Then, allow it to dry between 20 to 30 minutes. After drying and if there are still some scratches on your glass aquarium, repeat the process of applying toothpaste and removing stains. However, be careful not to scratch your glass aquarium further. In addition, avoid using excessive amounts of toothpaste as this may cause scratches on your glass aquarium.
Step 4: Polish the Fixed Area
Make sure that you clean your glass aquarium again after using toothpaste on it and letting it dry. Use hot water to clean your glass carefully, polish off any residue using a fine sandpaper (keep close by for future projects), and then place clear aquarium sealer over it all. Sealers are super protective and will protect the glass from damage (and including scratches) while making it easy to clean.
Is Toothpaste Safe for Your Glass Aquarium?
Applying toothpaste is claimed to be safe on your aquarium due its lack of all harmful ingredients derived from food products, but this formula might not do well with expensive stones as a part of their composition or even accidental spillage inside the tank. In summary, you should not apply toothpaste on your aquarium unless it is absolutely necessary.
What Are Alternative Methods to Remove Aquarium Scratches?
Using Baking Soda
One simple way to remove scratches from your aquarium is by using a mixture of baking soda and salt. The trick is to dilute the baking powder in water, add some vinegar, then place it on top of any scratch or rough patch. Let it sit for 20 minutes before wiping away the residue using a cloth dipped in hot soapy water.
Using Nail Polish
Another alternative is using nail polish. Free from harmful chemicals, nail polish remover is able to remove scratches with ease. Rinse your aquarium glass thoroughly first before applying nail polish along with a fingernail or sponge in your preferred application method over both sides at an angle of 90 degrees. Allow it to dry and remove using clean water.
What to Do With Deep Scratches in Your Glass Aquarium?
A scratched glass aquarium can easily be repaired, but if the scratch is deeper and some part of the surface has even been shattered completely then it’s time to replace your tank. If you think that replacing it will cost a lot of money, you can use fillers like fiberglass or epoxy resin (and other substances) to cover the deep scratches in your glass aquarium and to make it look better than ever.
After applying your preferred, it is still important to make sure that your glass aquarium has been cleaned properly. You can do this by rinsing it with a strong solution of soap and water, followed by rinsing with warm water, and then wiping it dry. It is also recommended to use a mild abrasive cleaner on the surface of the glass in order to remove any debris or dirt particles from inside the tank.