Changing your betta fish’s water is important to keep it healthy and happy. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
Prepare Fresh Water
- Use a clean container to fill with tap water.
- Add a water conditioner to remove chlorine and harmful chemicals.
- Let the water sit for a few hours to match the room temperature.
Remove the Betta Fish
Use a small net or cup to gently move your betta into a temporary container with some of its old tank water.
Clean the Tank
- Pour out about 50–75% of the old water.
- Use a soft sponge to clean the tank walls.
- Rinse decorations and gravel with old tank water.
Return Your Betta
- Slowly pour the prepared fresh water into the tank.
- Carefully place your betta back into the tank.
Watch your betta for a few minutes to ensure it’s adjusting well.
How Often Should You Do a Water Change?
You should change the water in your betta fish tank once a week. This keeps the water clean and safe for your fish. If your tank is very small or doesn’t have a filter, you may need to do it twice a week. For larger, filtered tanks, a 25-30% water change weekly is usually enough.
Water You Should Never Use in Your Betta Fish Tank
Not all water is safe for your betta fish. Some types of water can harm them,
Tap Water (Without Treatment)
Tap water contains chlorine and chloramines, which are toxic to bettas.
Bottled or Mineral Water
Bottled water often contains added minerals that can make the water too hard for bettas.
Rainwater
Rainwater might seem natural, but it’s often too soft and can have pollutants that harm bettas.
Saltwater
Bettas are freshwater fish and cannot survive in saltwater.
FAQs
- How to change betta fish water with a filter?
- Turn off the filter.
- Remove 20–30% of the water.
- Add treated water of the same temperature.
- Turn the filter back on.
- How to change betta fish water without a filter?
- Remove 30–50% of the water every 2–3 days.
- Add treated water of the same temperature.
- Clean the tank if needed.
- How to change betta fish water without a siphon?
- Scoop out water with a cup or container.
Remove waste with a turkey baster or tilt the tank.
Add treated water slowly.
- How do I transfer my betta fish to new water?
- Treat and match the water temperature.
- Move the fish to a small container.
- Slowly add the new water to the container.
- After 15–20 minutes, put the fish in the tank.
Conclusion
By regularly changing the water, using safe treated water, and avoiding unsafe options like untreated tap water or bottled water, you can create the perfect environment for your fish. Stick to a weekly routine, adjust as needed for your tank size, and always handle your betta gently. With proper care, your betta will thrive in clean, safe water!