Magnetic Glass Cleaner

A magnetic glass cleaner (also called a mag-float or magnetic algae scraper) consists of two halves — one placed inside the tank, one on the outside — held together by powerful magnets through the glass. By moving the outer half, you control the inner cleaning pad, scrubbing algae off the glass without reaching into the water.

Why Use a Magnetic Cleaner?

Convenience

Scrubbing the inside of your glass with a sponge or razor means rolling up your sleeves, disturbing the scape, and potentially introducing contaminants from your hands and arms. A magnetic cleaner lets you clean the glass from the outside in seconds.

Consistency

Because it's so easy to use, you're far more likely to clean the glass regularly — preventing stubborn algae buildups like green spot algae that become much harder to remove once established.

Dry Hands

No need to reach into the tank. This is especially valuable for large or deep tanks where reaching the bottom glass is physically difficult.

Types

Floating Magnet Cleaners

If the inner half separates from the glass (e.g., hitting a rock), it floats to the surface for easy retrieval. Ideal for general use.

Blade-Equipped Scrapers

Feature a built-in razor blade or stainless steel blade for removing tough calcified algae like green spot algae. Essential for stubborn deposits that a soft pad can't remove.

Nano Cleaners

Smaller, lighter magnet pairs designed for glass under 6mm thick. Perfect for nano tanks where a full-size cleaner is unwieldy.

Sizing Guide

| Glass Thickness | Magnet Strength Needed | |---|---| | 3–6mm (Nano) | Small / Light | | 6–10mm (Standard) | Medium | | 10–15mm (Large) | Large / Strong | | 15–19mm (XL) | Extra Strong |

Important: If you use a magnet too weak for your glass thickness, the inner half will slide down and separate. If you use one too strong on thin glass, it can be very difficult to move and may even crack thin glass. Always match the magnet to your glass thickness.

Tips for Use

• Sand and scratches: Before each use, check the inner pad for trapped sand or substrate particles. Dragging a grain of sand across your glass will leave permanent scratches.
• Silicone seams: Avoid running the cleaner over silicone seams — the blade or abrasive pad can damage them.
• Corners: Most magnetic cleaners struggle in corners. Use a manual sponge or old credit card for corner algae.
• Acrylic tanks: Only use cleaners specifically labelled for acrylic. Standard felt or blade cleaners will scratch acrylic surfaces.

Trusted Brands

• Mag-Float: The original floating magnetic cleaner. Reliable and widely available.
• Flipper: Innovative design with a flip mechanism that switches between soft pad and blade scraper.
• JBL Floaty: German-made, excellent for rimless tanks.
• Tunze Care Magnet: Premium, powerful magnets for thick glass.

Pros & Cons

Advantages

• Effortless: Clean glass in seconds without getting wet.
• Encourages routine: Easy = consistent cleaning = less algae buildup.
• No disturbance: Clean without disturbing the scape or stressing fish.
• Floating safety: Floating models are easy to retrieve if separated.

Considerations

• Scratching risk: Trapped sand or debris can permanently scratch glass.
• Corner limitation: Cannot effectively clean corners or tight spaces.
• Glass thickness matching: Must match magnet strength to your glass thickness.
• Not for acrylic (standard models): Requires a specific acrylic-safe version.