Substrate Cleaner Aquarium 118 ml - Liquid Gravel Sludge Remover
Pros
- Biological bottom cleaner with live bacteria – breaks down detritus, uneaten food & organic waste in aquarium substrate – ideal for freshwater & saltwater tanks – no vacuuming or water change needed.
- Targets nitrate sources, phosphate pockets & harmful gases in the gravel bed – made with live cultures & natural mangrove extract – 100% safe for fish, shrimp & corals – boosts biological balance.
- Works deep below the surface – reaches under rocks & décor – prevents cloudiness & odours – supports a healthy, oxygen-rich substrate for stable tank conditions.
- Easy application – dose 20 ml per 100 L biweekly for dirty tanks, monthly for maintenance – just add directly to the tank – no filter shutdown or manual removal required.
Cons
- Does not replace regular water changes.
Specifications
- Brand
- ARKA
- Price tier
- Budget
- Colour
- multicolored
How it compares in Aquarium Decor & Substrate
We list 17 aquarium decor & substrate products, priced from £2.67 to £26.99. At £6.91 this one is the 7th cheapest of them — 10 cost more. The average across the subcategory is £10.82 and the midpoint is £9.99, so it lands £3.91 below the average.
Its 4.1-star score sits 0.29 below the aquarium decor & substrate average of 4.39, with 12 of the 17 rated higher. Its 2,400 Amazon reviews make it the 9th most-reviewed here, against a subcategory average of 3,302.
Price position in Aquarium Decor & Substrate
Splitting the subcategory into three price bands puts this product in the Budget band (£2.67–£8.10), which holds 6 of 16 products and averages £4.44 at 4.38 stars.
| Band | Range | Products | Average price | Average rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BudgetThis one | £2.67–£8.10 | 6 | £4.44 | 4.38 |
| Mid-range | £9.99–£15.86 | 6 | £11.01 | 4.32 |
| Premium | £16.59–£26.99 | 4 | £22.24 | 4.60 |
Related attributes
FAQ
What is the best use for this substrate cleaner?
This cleaner is ideal for freshwater and saltwater tanks to break down detritus, uneaten food, and organic waste in the aquarium substrate without needing a water change or vacuuming.
How much of this cleaner do I need for my tank?
You should dose 20 ml per 100 L biweekly for dirty tanks and monthly for maintenance. Just add it directly to the tank without shutting down the filter.
Can I use this cleaner with live plants?
Yes, it's safe for fish, shrimp, corals, and live plants as it contains live bacteria and natural mangrove extract that are beneficial for a healthy aquarium environment.
Does this cleaner replace the need for water changes?
No, while this product helps maintain the substrate, it does not replace regular water changes, which are still necessary to keep your tank clean and balanced.
Is there any maintenance required after using this cleaner?
There is no additional cleaning or filter shutdown needed. Simply add the cleaner directly to the tank as directed for best results.
How does it compare to other budget cleaners on the market?
ARKA's Substrate Cleaner offers a biological approach with live bacteria, making it more effective at breaking down waste compared to some chemical cleaners in this price range.
Is this cleaner suitable for large tanks?
Yes, since you can dose 20 ml per 100 L, it's easy to scale up the dosage for larger tanks as needed without worrying about over-dosing.
Are there any safety notes I should know before using this product?
This cleaner is safe for use in both freshwater and saltwater tanks. However, always follow the dosing instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.
Can I mix this with other products in my tank?
Yes, it's compatible with other aquarium products. Just ensure to add it as directed and monitor your tank for any changes if you're adding new items.
Is there a risk of harming my fish or plants with this cleaner?
No, the product is made with live cultures and natural mangrove extract, which are safe for fish, shrimp, corals, and live plants. Always follow usage instructions to ensure safety.