Top 15 Best Aquarium Vacuum Cleaners in 2023

As an aquarist, nothing is more important than keeping your aquarium immaculately clean. You can spend a fortune on fishkeeping equipment and exert a great deal of effort in designing your tank. But, it will all be nothing and put into waste if you cannot maintain a well-kept and hygienic fish tank.

A dirty aquarium water can lead to stress, sickness, and eventually death for your fish. If you have aquatic plants in your aquarium, having toxic water may cause some similar problems as well.

That is why you need to get an aquarium vacuum cleaner. With an aquarium vacuum cleaner, you get to provide a healthy, safe, and thriving environment for your aquatic plants and finned pets. This, in turn, significantly helps in prolonging their life.

A functional vacuum cleaner ensures the consistency of water chemistry inside your tank. Moreover, it eliminates a ton of ammonia and nitrate that might be potentially building up in your aquarium.

On top of it all, it makes the removal of your tank’s hazardous elements so much easier and less stressful.

Thanks to aquarium vacuum cleaners, you can say adios to the traditional way of cleaning an aquarium.

No laborious chore.

No mess.

And, best of all, it is engineered with exceptional functions and features that make fish tank maintenance and cleaning a breeze.

Of course, not all aquarium vacuum cleaners are created equal. So, to help you pick the best aquarium vacuum cleaner for your fishkeeping hobby, I have created this in-depth and informative shopping guide for you.

Types Of Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

I know you are excited to find out my top picks. But, before that, let us first discuss the different kinds of vacuum cleaner available on the market today.

That way, you can find the best aquarium vacuum cleaner that best fits your needs, preferences, and budget.

Standard Siphon

It is the most commonly used aquarium vacuum cleaner today. Although it is designed for medium-sized aquariums, you can use it virtually for any size of fish tank.

It may, however, not be ideal for newbies since it takes a while to get used to it, especially the hose’s negative pressure requirements.

Mini Siphon

A mini siphon works like any aquarium vacuum cleaner, but relatively is smaller when it comes to size. It has a slimmer vacuum and a smaller diameter hose.

With their petite size, these vacuum cleaners make the perfect choice for smaller aquariums that measure 10 gallons or less in volume.

Since they do no suck up tons of water at once, they make it pretty easy to maintain the aquarium’s chemical balance.

Additionally, it is a terrific choice if you have shrimps and snails that you might suck up accidentally with a larger fish tank.

Long Siphon

This one works quite like the standard version, except that it has an extended hose. Ideal for deeper tanks, this hose lets you reach the tank’s bottom in a hassle-free way.

I do not recommend this option if you have shrimp and snails, though.

Electric Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

An electric aquarium vacuum cleaner does not drain your aquarium. But, it pumps tank water through trapping waste, leftover food, debris, and gunk.

As a result, it will make it a whole lot easier for you to clean your aquarium, especially since there is no need to empty the fish tank.

Battery-Powered Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

A battery-powered aquarium vacuum cleaner has typically more suction than the ones that rely on gravity. It also has built-in electric pumps, making it an ideal option for quick aquarium cleanups.

It is an excellent choice for fish keepers who clean their aquarium at least once a week. And, it does not take a great deal of time to clean the whole fish tank aquarium with this vacuum cleaner.

Self-Priming Siphon

One of the trickiest parts of using an aquarium vacuum cleaner is priming it, to make the water continuously flow. Although it can be done by just submerging the whole cleaner, it can cause a handful of problems.

For instance, it disturbs your fish as well as creates a mess on your floor.

Self-priming, fortunately, can make things a little simpler on your end. These babies are built to eliminate air bubbles from the cleaner’s hose and let the water simply flow by bobbing its vacuum down and up in the tank water.

These cleaners are perfect for any type of aquarium but are specifically useful for fish owners who want to limit the mess that cleaning an aquarium makes.

Best Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner Comparison Chart 2023

Cannot wait to get your hands on the best aquarium vacuum cleaner? Here is a comparison chart that will help you pick the best aquarium vacuum cleaner.

Which Are The Best Aquarium Vacuum Cleaners To Buy?

Need some help selecting the best aquarium cleaner for your indoor space? Here are some tips that will come in handy in your search for the best aquarium vacuum cleaner.

• Best Overall – Python No Spill Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner
  “Made 100% in the USA, this versatile and incredibly functional cleaner is the ultimate mess-free solution for cleaning gravel and changing water.”
• Best Budget – Lee’s Aquarium Gravel Vacuum Cleaner
  “A wallet-friendly, superb, and easy-to-use aquarium vacuum cleaner specially designed for smaller tanks!”
• Best Battery-Powered – Eheim Automatic Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner
  “Operated by AA batteries, this aquarium cleaner is well-known for its convenience, impeccable performance, and ease of use.”
• Best Mini Siphon – Python Pro Mini Aquarium Cleaner
  “With a few frills and straightforward design, this mini siphon is genuinely one of the top choices for small tank owners and fishkeeping newbies.”
• Best Standard Siphon – Fluval Edge Aquarium Gravel Cleaner
  “Not only is it an inexpensive tool, but it is also a supremely effective solution for cleaning the gravel and water in moderately-sized aquariums.”
• Best Self-Priming Cleaner – Aqueon Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner
  “Engineered carefully, this self-priming siphon is, no doubt, one of the most powerful and user-friendly aquarium cleaners on the market today.”
• Best Automatic Aquarium Cleaner – Nicrew Automatic Vacuum Cleaner
  “With its one-of-a-kind 3-in-1 design, this certified power cleaner is made to remove waste, change the water, and clean the water simultaneously without siphoning.”
• Best for Beginners – Terapump Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner
  “A versatile and outstanding manual aquarium vacuum cleaner that works perfectly with sand and gravel.”

Reviews Of The Best Aquarium Vacuum Cleaners in 2023

Reading truthful and reliable reviews about each product is paramount for every shopper. To make things easier on your end, I have rounded up reviews of the best aquarium vacuum cleaners in 2023.

1. Best Overall: Python No Spill Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

They do not call Python No Spill as the best aquarium vacuum cleaner for nothing. Not only is it easy to use, but it also is available in 6 different options ranging from 25 to 100 feet.

With its clean, no-spill design, this aquarium vacuum cleaner does not need any siphon or bucket. In fact, it does not need any tank teardown at all.

Furthermore, it does not disturb your beloved aquatic plants and fish.

The model has a few excellent accessories too, including an adaptor, faucet pump, hose connectors, switch, and extendable gravel tube.

Key Features:

• Ready and easy to use system
• Easily adapts to faucets
• Does not disturb aquarium dwellers during operation
• Mess-free

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	6
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	15 x 15 x 2 inches
Weight	2.85 pounds

2. Best Budget: Lee’s Aquarium Gravel Vacuum Cleaner

Looking for an affordable vacuum cleaner for your aquarium? Then, make sure to consider this option, as you search for the best aquarium vacuum cleaner.

Affordable price aside, this aquarium vacuum cleaner is also an ideal choice for smaller aquariums, such as designer tanks and fish bowls.

And, it is rather easy to use too, making it an ideal option for fishkeeping newbies.

Its assembly is self-start and has a 72-inch-long hose. Plus, the model is easy to use, and it poses no risk to your aquatic pets because it has a small diameter.

The model is suitable for sand and small gravel pieces.

Key Features:

• Designed for small tanks
• Vinyl 72-inch-long hose
• Easy to use

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	5.5 x 1.5 x 14 inches
Weight	0.8 ounces

3. Best Battery-Powered: Eheim Automatic Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

The Eheim automatic vacuum cleaner can be beneficial to you, as a fishkeeper, in a lot of ways. For instance, it is easy to operate and use and extends the intervals between tank water replacements.

And, unlike other options, this one does not need a bucket or a hose.

Moreover, it is battery-operated, meaning it is convenient and safe to use.

Since it has an extraordinary hose-less design, this model functions more of a good vacuum than an aquarium siphon.

The tool is suitable for almost all tank sizes as long as they have a minimum depth of 12 inches. On the low side, it is not ideal for fine sand or gravel.

Key Features:

• No power cable needed
• Fully submersible
• Decent suction power
• Safe and easy to use

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	4 AA batteries
Dimensions	24 inches tall
Weight	2.2 pounds

4. Best Mini Siphon: Python Pro Mini Aquarium Cleaner

This astounding Python model separates as well as removes debris from aquarium gravel and water. It has a durable and flexible tube that is rather resistant when used frequently.

Since it is easy to use and short, this option is one of the best options for newbies and those who are looking for a cleaner that can be used for regular maintenance.

Although the hose is 6 feet in length, it is relatively small in terms of diameter. So, users of this model should be extra careful when dealing with larger debris because they can clog the tube.

Key Features:

• Premium quality tubing
• Perfect for small-sized tanks
• Effectively eliminates debris from your fish tank

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	11 x 4 x 1 inches
Weight	4 ounces

5. Best Standard Siphon: Fluval Edge Aquarium Gravel Cleaner

When it comes to cleaning medium-sized aquariums, the Fluval Edge is arguably the best aquarium vacuum cleaner on the market today. With its remarkable angled design, this tool makes it a whole lot easier to clean and reach deep into your tank’s gravel.

Moreover, the siphon has a couple of different attachments for its vacuum head.

One is narrow, designed to make cleaning the tank corners easy. The other is made for cleaning bulk gravel.

As a bonus, its hose has a gravel guard built to prevent gravel clogging, saving you from the headaches that you might experience with other cleaners.

Key Features:

• The valve is easy to start
• Incredible angled reach
• Gravel guard
• Versatile cleaning heads

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	3.3 x 6.3 x 18 inches
Weight	6.4 ounces

6. Best Self-Priming Cleaner: Aqueon Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

I love this Aqueon model, and it is, to me, a terrific tool, especially if you are also looking for a water-changing piece of equipment.

It is compact and perfect for tanks that measure around 15 to 35 gallons.

And, it does an exceptional job of cleaning as well as separating debris from your aquarium’s gravel. That means the cleaner will pick up all the droppings and leftover food while still leaving your aquarium gravel intact.

Not to mention, it is suitable for fish tanks with tons of decorations and accessories.

And did I mention that it is self-priming as well?

Key Features:

• Separates debris from your tank’s gravel
• Self-priming
• Ideal for water changes

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	5
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	6.3 x 18.3 x 1.5 inches
Weight	9.6 ounces

7. Best Automatic Aquarium Cleaner: Nicrew Automatic Vacuum Cleaner

Searching for a handy and prolific automatic gravel cleaner? Trust me, this electric aquarium vacuum cleaner will fit your style and satisfy your needs.

Besides its incredibly appealing features, this tool cleans everything without even gobbling the aquarium gravel.

You will love staring at it, as it picks up the tank gravel and gobbles the particulates and debris efficiently. Afterward, it instantly drops the gravel back to the underneath section of the aquarium.

The filter is also removable and can be washed out with ease after using it. And, unlike other units, it can get the tank cleaning task done in no time.

Key Features:

• Prolific and powerful cleaner
• Runner washer prevents leaker
• Sealer rotator helps prevent the model motor from clogging
• Flow adjustment valve

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	NA
Weight	1.9 pounds

8. Best for Beginners: Terapump Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

This highly functional and affordable aquarium is produced by one of the world’s leading aquarium manufacturers. Famous worldwide for its premium quality equipment, this superb aquarium cleaning set will not disappoint you.

With this kit, you will get two nozzle types, for the most specific and easiest aquarium cleaning experience.

One is a short nozzle, built to drain your tank. The second is a longer one, which is ideal for cleaning up any dropping or leftover food in your aquarium.

I genuinely love this kit because it not only lets you clean the aquarium but, at the same time, replace its water as well.

The only downside I can think of is that the bucket has no clamp.

Key Features:

• Two nozzle types available
• Potent suction cub
• Prolific filter

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	3
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	17 x 4.5 x 1.6 inches
Weight	5.6 ounces

9. Fish Net Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

Fish Net may not be a popular household name in the world of fishkeeping. But, soon, it will be making some waves, especially if it continues to produce high-quality products like the Fish Net aquarium vacuum cleaner.

And, there are a lot of things that I love about this aquarium vacuum cleaner. It is not just a newbie-friendly model, but it siphons out all the aquarium waste effectively.

The unit has a couple of interchangeable vacuum nozzles too. One is for vacuuming and cleaning gravel, while the other is for quick water changes.

Both nozzles come with nets, meaning your fish are safe. Not to mention, it is no-spill and is non-toxic.

Key Features:

• Safe for fish
• Versatile
• No-spill feature
• Fast and easy

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	NA
Weight	4 ounces

10. Sungrow Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

SunGrow is ideal for freshwater and saltwater tanks alike and makes your cleaning routine as easy and simple as possible.

Although its instruction manual is not in English, the pump takes less than a couple of minutes to put together.

Even better, the pump simultaneously replaces the aquarium water and cleans its sand, rocks, and gravel.

And, with its spill-proof design, users will not have to worry about the mess that can be created by cleaning an aquarium.

On top of it all, it is quite affordable compared to other premier brands.

Key Features:

• No-spill, mess-free solution
• Made of durable BPA-free plastic
• Comes with a plethora of accessories

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	NA
Weight	12 ounces

11. Jeeco Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

Jeeco, no doubt, has all the ingredients of a superb and exceptional aquarium vacuum cleaner. With its sophisticated features, this cleaner does an incredible job in absorbing droppings, raking sand, eliminating algae, replacing water and sand washing.

And, there is no need to dip your hands in the aquarium. Moreover, it has less disruption in water and has a no-spill design.

It is fitted with a plastic scraper that will not leave any scratch in your fish tank.

It is, however, not ideal for larger fish tanks. And, with frequent or several uses, this model will likely rust over time.

Key Features:

• Water flow control
• Air presser
• Fish protector
• 5-in-1 tool

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	NA
Weight	12.8 ounces

12. Upettools Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

Searching for a powerful and reliable electric aquarium clean? Why not consider buying an Upettools aquarium vacuum cleaner?

Versatile and multi-functional, this cleaner offers a wide array of features and functions, including replacing water, washing sand, gravel cleaning, sucking the dropping, and waste absorption.

Fitted with a powerful suction, this tool sucks residues and fish manure out of the aquarium immediately.

On the low side, this aquarium vacuum cleaner is a little complex to operate and use, as compared to other brands.

Key Features:

• Strong suction power
• Max flow of 1,700 L/H
• 6-in-1 multi-function vacuum cleaner

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	2.8 x 5.1 x 31.5 inches
Weight	2.2 pounds

13. Zacro Aquarium Cleaning Pump Kit

There are a lot of things to love about this aquarium vacuum cleaner. For starters, it is affordable, easy to assemble and operate, and is affordable.

Plus, it is convenient to use for fishkeepers.

Also, it comes with a complimentary water pipe clip, engineered to fix the unit’s hose.

Another upside to using this kit is that it shields your most beloved finned pets as you replace the aquarium water. Additionally, this ensures a steady water flow and may assist in cleaning the aquarium thoroughly with ease.

Key Features:

• Safety features for your fish
• Superior quality design for faucet
• Easy to use

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	11.8 x 9.1 x 2.8 inches
Weight	8.8 ounces

14. Ssriver Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

Wise shoppers always opt for aquarium vacuum cleaners that are multi-functional. And, this model is quite a catch since it is proficient in replacing the water as well as keeping the aquarium water fresh and clean.

With a tube fitted with a filter basket, this tool can also ward off some gravel. This, in turn, makes this cleaner reliable in immediately separating and removing aquarium residues.

You will also love its compact, handy, and convenient design. And, while it is mainly designed for smaller tanks, it can also clean larger ones thanks to its rather long hose.

Just be a little careful when using it as it is made of not-so durable plastic.

Key Features:

• Equipped with a ton of accessories
• User-friendly
• Prevents block
• Handy design

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	NA
Weight	14.9 ounces

15. Londafish Electric Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

Yes, indeed, fish keepers rarely use electric aquarium vacuum cleaners. But, this vacuum cleaner seems a must-have fishkeeping accessory when trying to vacuum sand and rough gravel.

Trust me, this electric aquarium vacuum cleaner does a marvelous job handling all dirt residues in your fish tank. After all, this model is designed with a powerful suction capable of getting the job done pretty quickly.

It is, however, recommended for smaller aquariums only. Furthermore, its filter sock is ideal for trapping bigger specks.

Key Features:

• Superb cleaning features
• Multipurpose
• Easy to set up and operate
• Comes with a variety of accessories

Product Specifications:

Sizes available	1
Power input	220 to 240 V
Dimensions	NA
Weight	12 ounces

Things To Consider When Looking For An Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner

Having problems making a decision? Still need some more buying tips? Here are some helpful suggestions that can help you pick the best aquarium vacuum cleaner for your needs.

Aquarium Size

Always consider the size and dimensions of your tank as you search for the best aquarium vacuum cleaner. If you have a small tank, then opt for a smaller aquarium vacuum cleaner.

Some cleaners can siphon the tank water out quicker than needed for smaller tank sizes. And, this can lead to a few problems for your tank’s residents.

Aquarium Dweller

Think of the aquatic plants as well as the size of the fish species dwelling in your aquarium. To avoid any unfortunate incident, make sure that the noozle’s diameter is smaller the size of your fish.

Also, look for cleaners that are equipped with some valuable safety features.

Type Of Aquarium Cleaner That Fits Your Needs

Aquarium cleaners come in a variety of types. Most users prefer to use electronic cleaners because they are pretty convenient when it comes to removing waste and water.

But, there are also other users who prefer the old-fashioned way of vacuum cleaning an aquarium.

Aquarium Depth

Depth is an essential factor that often escapes the radar of most shoppers and fish keepers. If you do not want your whole arm dipped in murky water, make sure to determine the fish tank’s entire depth.

Then, look for the best aquarium vacuum cleaner with the right tube length.

Size Of The Substrate

The size of your aquarium’s substrate dictates the tube opening’s diameter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean my fish tank?

It depends on several factors, like its inhabitants, tank size, filtration system, and whether you are using freshwater or saltwater.

But, on average, you should vacuum as well as change 15% of your tank’s water every week. Aquariums that are 5 gallons or less will need more frequent vacuuming and water change.

What are the most trusted brands for aquarium vacuum cleaners?

Zacro, EHEIM, TERA PUMP, SunGrow, Aqueon, and Python are some of the highly acclaimed producers of aquarium vacuum cleaners.

How to take care of an aquarium vacuum cleaner?

After using the aquarium vacuum cleaner, make sure to wash it off thoroughly. Rinse carefully the head’s end as well as the rest of its tube.

Afterward, dry the unit and store it in a reasonably cool and dry spot.

How to use a vacuum cleaner to refill the aquarium?

You will need a bucket of water (clean) and a siphon. Lift your bucket above the aquarium and let gravity do the rest for you.

That way, the water goes into your fish tank from the bucket.

Do I leave the fish in the aquarium when cleaning?

When cleaning your tank, it is ideal to keep your aquatic friends right in the aquarium. Simple cleaning tasks are less disturbing to your finned friends than totally removing them from the tank.

Our Top Pick

When it comes to aquarium vacuum cleaners, nothing beats our top pick, Python No Spill Aquarium Vacuum Cleaner. For years, this model has been a trusted unit beloved for its sophisticated functions.

With a mishmash of amazing features, this model can make vacuum cleaning painless and a breeze.

Even better, the model has a fantastic design that allows instant vacuum aquarium cleaning. And, unlike other units, it does not disturb the aquarium or fish at all.

On top of it all, there is no mess, siphon, or bucket with this fine and handy piece of equipment. It is definitely worth every cent!