Best algae magnet cleaners & hand scrapers for glass & acrylic aquariums

Updated: February 9, 2023 - By: - Categories: Maintenance

Keeping aquariums means dealing with some challenges now and then. One of these challenges is stubborn algae that grow on the glass. Thanks to algae magnet cleaners, aquarists have a convenient solution for removing algae from aquarium walls.

An algae magnet cleaner is a two-part magnetic assembly, with one part going inside the aquarium wall and the other part outside. The inner part comes with a scrubbing pad so that when you move the outer part, it will be like scrubbing off algae from the glass walls hands-free.

This guide will present you with the best algae magnet cleaners and hand scrapers for glass and acrylic aquariums.

Best algae magnet cleaners and scrapers

Model Our rating Features Scrubber Glass thickness For tanks
Kasan aquarium glass cleaner magnetic brush editor's ratingKasan aquarium magnetic brush #ad scrub 1.57″ diameter < 0.59″ nano glass tanks
Flipper 2-in-1 Floating Magnetic Aquarium Glass Cleaner - Scrubber & Scraper editor's ratingFlipper 2-in-1 floating magnetic cleaner #ad scrub, scrape, flip, float rectangle 1/4 – 1/2″ (12 mm) (1″ available) 30-150 gallons, glass or acrylic
Fluval Razor+ 2-in-1 Algae Magnet editor's ratingFluval Razor+ 2-in-1 algae magnet #ad scrub, scrape, flip long rectangle, rounded surface < 3/8″ (10 mm) 20-100 gallons, curved or flat, glass or acrylic
Tunze Care Magnet Long with Care Booster editor's ratingTunze Long Care Magnet #ad scrub, scrape, float 5.51″ L rectangle 3/8-1/2″ (10-15 mm) glass
Hygger magnetic aquarium cleaner brush with algae scraper editor's ratingHygger magnetic aquarium cleaner #ad scrub, scrape, float 2.2 x 4.4 inches < 3/4″ (< 5/8″ available) 90-200 gallons, glass or acrylic
Hygger aquarium strong magnetic algae magnet cleaning tool editor's ratingHygger strong algae magnet cleaning tool #ad scrub, scrape, float 4.1″ L x 2.1″ W 3/8-3/5″ (1/5-3/8″ available) 55-150 gallons, glass only
Mag-Float acrylic aquarium cleaner editor's ratingMag-Float acrylic aquarium cleaner #ad scrub, float – 3/8″ (10 mm) acrylic
Aqueon Aquarium Algae Cleaning Magnets editor's ratingAqueon aquarium algae cleaning magnets #ad scrub curved surface < 1/4″ (3/4″ available) 20 gallons, curved or plat, glass or acrylic
Neptonion magnetic glass aquarium algae scraper scrubber editor's ratingNeptonion magnetic algae scraper scrubber #ad scrub, float 4.84″ L x 2.56″ W < 0.6″ (< 0.2-0.48″ available) > 40 gallons, glass only
Continuum AquaBlade P long scraper with plastic blade editor's ratingContinuum AquaBlade P long scraper #ad scrape plastic blade and stainless steel blade all < 35″ deep, glass or acrylic
Hygger carbon fiber 6-in-1 aquarium cleaning tool set editor's ratingHygger 6-in-1 cleaning tool set #ad multi functions flat sponge cleaner with handle all < 2.65 ft (or 32″) deep
API algae scraper for acrylic aquariums editor's ratingAPI algae scraper for acrylic aquariums #ad scrubber with long handle 3.25″ L x 1.5″ W sponge pad all < 18″ deep, acrylic only (glass option #ad available)
Hotoolme aquarium algae scraper cleaning razor with 10 blades editor's ratingHotoolme algae scraper cleaning razor #ad scrape, extendable handle 1.7″ cutting head all < 25.5″ deep, glass only

Algae Magnet Cleaner and Scraper Reviews

Kasan aquarium glass cleaner magnetic brush for small tanks

This mini magnetic scraper by KASAN is perfect for small fish tanks. It’s only 1.57 inches in diameter and is great for cleaning tight spaces. It comes with powerful magnets and doesn’t fall off easily with its non-slip design.

The inside assembly comes with a brush designed for scraping off stubborn algae, while the outside assembly features a soft fabric for cleaning the exterior walls of the tank. Both the sides are made of soft material that efficiently cleans the aquarium inside and out without scratching the glass.

Fl!pper 2-in-1 floating magnetic aquarium glass cleaner

Scrub, Flip, Scrape, & Float. This is the slogan of the float magnetic cleaner by Flipper. It comes with a patented design that lets you flip from scrubber to scraper simply by rotating the handle.

Scrubber sideScrubber side #ad

Scraper sideScraper side #ad

What makes this magnetic cleaner unique is that it has a floating wet side, which means you won’t have to dig into the sand when it decouples from the external assembly.

Perfect for both freshwater and marine water tanks and glass and acrylic tanks, the Flipper comes with a stainless steel scraper blade and an acrylic-safe scraper blade. It is recommended to replace the blades every 3-6 months to maintain optimal algae scraping.

Made with rare earth magnets, this scraper is designed for heavy-duty cleaning. This magnetic cleaner is designed for aquarium thicknesses of up to 12mm (1/2″) and can cover a wide range of tank sizes.

Fluval Razor+ 2-in-1 algae magnet

The Fluval Razor+ 2-in-1 Algae Magnet lets you shift from scraper to scrubber in one quick and easy snap. Flip the outside assembly, and the inner assembly flips to the other side, allowing you to perform a more thorough cleaning action. The scrubber of the Razor+ is made of a non-abrasive material that’s effective against algae but gentle on aquarium glass.

Curved cleaning surfaceCurved cleaning surface #ad

With its unique design, it lets you clean hard-to-reach corners of your aquarium. Its long-and thin profile also makes it the perfect scrubber for curved tanks. Finally, it comes with a stainless steel blade specially designed for hard-to-remove algae.

Tunze Care Magnet Long with Care Booster

This product allows users to assemble according to their needs.

Assembly componentsAssembly components #ad

The picture includes:

This algae cleaner is perfect for users who are after a more compact design. The slim and ergonomic cleaning magnets allow you to leave it inside the tank without worrying about it obstructing the lovely view.

The Care Boosters can attach to the outside assembly, allowing for a better grip and more efficient cleaning action. And since the Care Magnet floats, you don’t have to worry about it falling into the substrate after detaching from the magnet.

One concern many aquarium owners have with algae cleaners is the chance of scratching the glass. This happens when sand gets trapped in the assembly. With Tunze Care Magnet Long algae cleaner, this isn’t an issue at all, as the magnet has a 3mm allowance from the glass, keeping sand from getting trapped and eliminating the chances of the glass getting scratched.

Hygger magnetic aquarium cleaner brush with algae scraper

For those looking for an algae cleaner that’s perfect for most tank sizes, the Hygger aquarium glass cleaner should be a good option. It comes in small and medium sizes and is suitable for glass and acrylic tanks. The handle is ergonomically designed for pure comfort when you’re cleaning your tank. It has two removable scrapers, one for glass and one for acrylic.

The internal brush features tiny plastic hooks to remove algae and dirt from the inner glass. In contrast, the external brush is made of abrasion-resistant soft fabric, allowing you to clean the outside portion of the tank simultaneously. Easy to use, the magnetic assembly detaches once you rotate it 90 degrees. Finally, the self-floating design of the inner assembly makes it easy for you to remove it when you’re done cleaning.

Hygger aquarium strong magnetic algae magnet cleaning tool

Here’s another one from Hygger, but this time, it has stronger magnetism and comes with a grip with a wood-like finish. The internal assembly comes with a scrubbing pad made of Velcro-like fabric, perfect for scrubbing thick algae on the walls of your tank. Meanwhile, the external assembly is made of ABS material. Its curved, ergonomically-designed handle lets you perform your cleaning tasks with precision and comfort.

The blades are also replaceable, allowing you to swap blades easily as you switch between glass and acrylic tanks. The magnets for this model are very strong, so observe caution when installing the blades and when using the cleaner.

Mag-Float acrylic aquarium cleaner

This Mag-Float aquarium cleaner is designed specifically for acrylic aquariums. It has a simple design and is an excellent choice for those who are new to the aquarium and fishkeeping hobby. Suitable for both freshwater and marine tanks, this aquarium cleaner is intended for tanks up to 125 gallons in capacity. As the name suggests, this cleaner floats, so you won’t have to dip your entire arm into the water to retrieve it. If you’re looking for an algae cleaner minus the frills, then this one’s for you.

Aqueon aquarium algae cleaning magnets

While most aquarium owners are after floating algae cleaners, others prefer the non-floating models. The Aqueon aquarium algae cleaning magnet is one such cleaner. It has a weighted scrubber that instantly sinks to the bottom once detached from the magnet. Owners of wide yet shallow tanks prefer this as it keeps the cleaner from floating out of reach.

The scrubber has a bowed design so that it doesn’t come into contact with sand when it falls. What makes this model unique is the raised handle, allowing you to clean your aquarium with ease and comfort. This model comes with two scrubbing pads, one for glass and one for acrylic. Check the pads before using them to be sure that you’re using the right one.

Neptonion magnetic glass aquarium algae scrubber

This magnetic aquarium glass cleaner by Neptonion is a handy tool that lets you remove stubborn algae with ease and comfort. Unlike most algae cleaners, it comes with a handle that lets you slip your fingers around it for a firmer grip. The tiny bristles on the internal assembly are stiff enough to remove algae but are also gentle on the glass.

This model is self-floating for easy retrieval from the aquarium after use. It comes in three sizes too. The smallest is 2.8 inches long, perfect for 0.2-inch-thick glasses. The large size is designed for 0.48-inch-thick glass and is 4.26 inches long. Finally, if you have a large aquarium with a glass thickness of 0.6 inches and up, there’s also an extra-large model, which is 4.84 inches long.

Continuum AquaBlade P long algae scraper with plastic blade

For aquarium keepers who are not worried about getting their hands wet, the Continuum Aquatics AquaBlade Algae Scraper should be an excellent choice. It comes in three sizes depending on your needs—15 inches, 24 inches, and 35 inches.

What makes this scraper special is the fiberglass handle. You can apply as much pressure as you want when cleaning your fish tank without worrying about the handle breaking or shattering. Designed for both glass and acrylic tanks, this scraper lets you swap blades with ease. And with its long, sturdy, and agile handle, you won’t have any problems cleaning hard-to-reach corners.

Hygger carbon fiber 6-in-1 aquarium cleaning tool set

Here’s another non-magnetic algae cleaner on our list, this time, it’s from Hygger. This is not your usual algae scraper, though. It’s a 6-in-1 tool that features one metal blade, a flat sponge cleaner, a right-angle sponge, a tube brush, a gravel rake, and a fishnet. All you need to do is attach the appropriate header to the handle, depending on your maintenance needs.

Speaking of handles, the handle of this scraper is made of premium carbon composite material and can extend up to 2.9 feet, perfect for large and deep fish tanks. Designed with a spring notch closure, you can rest assured that the header will sit securely and not fall off when you’re cleaning. With the razor made from anti-rust stainless steel, this scraper can be used in both freshwater and marine water aquariums.

API algae scraper for acrylic aquariums

API is one of the longest-running brands in the aquatics industry, so you can rest assured that their algae scraper is a good investment. Designed for deep aquariums, this scraper can extend up to 3 feet and 1/4 inch, allowing you to reach every corner and nook of your tank without getting your hands wet.

It comes with a thick double-layer pad that can be replaced when worn out. The handle is angled, too, so you can easily scrub the glass without putting too much strain on your wrist. For easy storage, the end of the handle comes with a built-in hook. Keep in mind that this model is only for acrylic tanks, although you can also use it for glass.

Hotoolme aquarium algae scraper cleaning razor

Are you tired of purchasing replacement blades from your algae scraper? Try the Hotoolme Aquarium Algae Scraper, which comes with ten extra blades. This is a convenient option if you maintain multiple tanks and perform regular cleaning. The blade is fastened by screws, but it comes with a hollow design so that it’s flexible and easy to move across the walls of your aquarium.

This model features an extendable handle that can be extended up to 25.5 inches, perfect for fish tanks 40 gallons and above. The handle is made of corrosion-resistant material, making it a good choice for both freshwater and marine water aquariums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an automatic aquarium glass cleaner robot in the market?

Absolutely. One of the most popular models right now is the AquaGenesis RoboSnail magnetic automatic aquarium glass cleaner #ad. This is quite a new concept, so you might want to wait for later releases once the product has undergone upgrades to make it more efficient and effective.

Should you choose an algae scraper or magnet cleaner?

This is a matter of personal choice. Both can do an excellent job at removing algae from aquarium walls. Some people prefer scrapers for spot cleaning. Others prefer the magnets because they are easier to use for larger tanks. Each has its pros and cons, but it will ultimately depend on the make and quality of the product you choose. Be sure to read reviews online to help you make an informed buying decision.

Can you leave a magnetic cleaner in the fish tank all the time?

It’s not uncommon for aquarium keepers to leave their magnet cleaner inside the tank when not in use. These products pose no harm to aquarium inhabitants. However, leaving it submerged in water may cause algae to grow on it. But as long as you use it or take it out regularly to clean it, it shouldn’t be an issue at all.

How do I stop my aquarium glass from scratching?

Watch out for sand getting trapped in the scrubbing pad or scraper, as a single grain is enough to cause an ugly scratch. That said, always inspect your scraper or magnet cleaner before using it. When used correctly, algae magnet cleaners and scrapers won’t scratch the aquarium glass.

How do you clean an acrylic fish tank without scratching it?

Acrylic tanks scratch easier than glass tanks. Only use the recommended tools to avoid scratches when cleaning an acrylic tank. As much as possible, use a scraper with a blade designed for acrylic. Most importantly, avoid scraping at an angle as this can easily leave deep marks on the tank wall.

We enjoy keeping fish, and have for many years. We are trying to promote the hobby as much as possible. We want to see many others succeed in their fish keeping efforts and are committed to sharing our knowledge when we can.

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