[jmeeter]

So I never noticed these weird white streaks until I switched to a black background... I tried using water and then Windex and nothing removes them! It's on the exterior obviously, heh. Any clue what it is and how to remove it?

 

[Diana]

It is minerals; try vinegar.

 

[Mikeygmzmg]

+1 to vinegar and scrubber. If it's too calcified and the scrubber doesn't work, use a razor blade (glass only no acrylic). Angle the blade and don't shift from left to right to avoid scratches.

 

[jmeeter]

+1 to vinegar and scrubber. If it's too calcified and the scrubber doesn't work, use a razor blade (glass only no acrylic). Angle the blade and don't shift from left to right to avoid scratches.

When you say scrubber do you mean like the scratchy side of a sponge?

 

[Nlewis]

When you say scrubber do you mean like the scratchy side of a sponge?

That should work you just don't want to use anything that will scratch the glass. If the vinegar doesn't work you can use a product called Bar Keeper's Friend.

 

[MCSLABS]

Lime juice. If that doesn't do the trick, Lowes, get some Malic acid and be very careful with it.

 

[WaterLife]

Yep, just dried up mineral stains/deposits from water.

Just scrub them off or use something acidic like vinegar. If that's not strong enough, use Bar Keeper's Friend (oxalic acid).

 

[Zoidburg]

+1 vinegar



And yes, if it's a glass tank, use the rough side of a sponge or one of those green scrubby pads.



Had to clean up a 10 gallon tank that water was allowed to dry out in it, leaving mineral deposits all over the bottom and sides. First time got most of the mineral deposits off, but took at least 3 times to get all of it and the glass is fine. You may only need to do it once?

 

[jmeeter]

Dang, this stuff is STUBBORN!! I tried baking soda, razor blade, tooth paste, and Mr Clean magic eraser and it's still there!! I may have to go the heavy duty route...

Update: Tried lemon juice and it was super effective! It's not 100% gone but maybe another treatment and it will be.

 

[ichy]

why are you getting water running down the back of your tank. You dont get that calcification from a one time spill.

 

[Nordic]

Barkeepers friend, or automotive rubbing compound.... The first one is the easier option.

There is something more to BKF than just the acid, I tried using just oxalic acid(toxic), no results.

 

[jmeeter]

why are you getting water running down the back of your tank. You dont get that calcification from a one time spill.

Pretty sure it's from the previous owner. I've never spilled water over the back and I don't have hard water.