Filter media is the material inside your aquarium filter that helps keep your water clean and healthy. It removes physical waste, harmful chemicals, and provides a home for beneficial bacteria that break down toxic substances like ammonia and nitrite.

We specialize in several kinds of filter media commonly used in home aquariums:

Mechanical Media – Pads, sponges, or floss that traps solid waste and debris.

Biological Media – Ceramic rings, beads, or other porous materials that grow beneficial bacteria.

Chemical Media – Activated carbon and specialized resins that adsorb impurities and odors.

Choose media based on your tank size, fish load, and water quality goals:

Mechanical: Keeps water clear by removing solids.
Biological: Essential for a stable nitrogen cycle.
Chemical: Useful for removing odors, discoloration, or medicines.

A balanced combination usually gives the best results. Tailor choices depending on whether your tank is freshwater, planted, or saltwater.

Mechanical media: Rinse every few weeks and replace when worn.

Chemical media (e.g., carbon): Replace every 3–6 weeks since it gradually loses effectiveness.

Biological media: Rinse gently in aquarium water as needed — don’t clean too often so beneficial bacteria remain intact.

No — tap water contains chlorine and other chemicals that can kill beneficial bacteria. Always rinse biological media in tank water to preserve bacterial colonies.