How to remove algae from acrylic background?

[Miami Reef]

Hello, I have these removable black acrylic sheets that go in the inside of my tank as a background. How can I remove all the algae cells on the sheets when it’s time for me to clean them?

Only requirement is that the chemical/utensil doesn’t damage the appearance of the acrylic sheets…Will bleach stain black acrylic sheets? I tried setting the sheets on the floor and pouring vinegar and water and rubbed the sheets with a broom (bristles), but I still had green algae cells on the sheets which can easily grow back and require more frequent cleanings from me.

I’d rather remove the algae by the root to extend time between cleanings.

 

[DeniseAndy]

I would use a good scraper and after you get the tough stuff off, use a magic eraser for the lighter stuff. Keep going till it is buffed nice and clean. Just do not use any metal. My credit cards (old ones) do okay, but damage fast. Then you can always douse in h2o2 or rubbing alcohol and let sit out to dry, then clean with the magic eraser again. :)

My 210g is acrylic.

 

[Arego]

Credit cards will make short work of this task and leave the acrylic just fine. Do not use magic eraser on acrylic it is an abrasive. If it really comes down to it sand it clean with wet 1500 grit sand paper and work your way higher until it's perfect, polish as necessary.

 

[DeniseAndy]

Credit cards will make short work of this task and leave the acrylic just fine. Do not use magic eraser on acrylic

Why not? I have used it with no issues so far. Although, I do not use it much on the 210g. Only for the top and crease areas.

 

[Tamberav]

You can definitely use a original magic eraser on acylic. I have been doing it on my acrylic tank for 7 years. It's the best!

 

[Arego]

Because it's an abrasive. If you do it hard enough I promise it will scratch acrylic no different than wet dry sand paper would and for that you have to polish it with higher grit to get the grooves out.

Edit

That's weird I have an acrylic frag tank and it's literally scratched from brand new magic eraser the original. I assumed it was the same for all acrylic.

 

[Miami Reef]

I will say that I didn’t let the vinegar soak long enough. Just a quick pour and scrub.

I got 100% vinegar in a mist bottle now. I’m letting it soak in for a few minutes and I will try again. If it’s STILL won’t come off I will try one of the manual abrasives.

 

[Chrisv.]

If you're taking it out of the tank already, why not peroxide?

 

[Arego]

Those tough calcium spots are hard. Wet dry sand paper will take it clear off then use a gritty rubbing compound to polish it back to new. Good luck

 

[Tamberav]

vinegar won't remove algae well... except coralline. Peroxide will kill the algae tho not sure if it makes it easier to remove.

 

[Miami Reef]

vinegar won't remove algae well... except coralline. Peroxide will kill the algae tho not sure if it makes it easier to remove.

Maybe a mild bleach solution next time?

The vinegar 100% concentration worked well, maybe there were a few spots of algae left, but about 90% gone.

I can try bleach in an inconspicuous area before trying to go all out.

I know @Jay Hemdal uses hydrochloric acid, but not sure If I’d want to deal with stomach acid for this home DIY project.

 

[mehaffydr]

Plastic electrical outlet covers work really good for scraping acrylic. Its all I used when I had an acrylic tank. You ave to get the stiff ones not the cheap ones that are flexible.

 

[vetteguy53081]

Ive doing acrylic for a while. Things you can seafely use:

Magic eraser ORIGINAL, not scented.
As mentioned , edge of a credit card
White algae sponge - Not blue or green which are abrasive
Microfiber cloth


Whatever you use, assure it is free of sand and dont apply heavy pressure

 

[Miami Reef]

Ive doing acrylic for a while. Things you can seafely use:

Magic eraser ORIGINAL, not scented.
As mentioned , edge of a credit card
White algae sponge - Not blue or green which are abrasive
Microfiber cloth


Whatever you use, assure it is free of sand and dont apply heavy pressure

Thank you! Great suggestions! Do you suggest any chemical/liquid to help soften the algae and make the removal process easier? :)