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You should only ever use decorations specifically designed for aquariums — found objects and household items can be toxic or otherwise harmful.

by: Lauren Corona, BestReviews Staff

You should only ever use decorations specifically designed for aquariums — found objects and household items can be toxic or otherwise harmful.

by: Lauren Corona, BestReviews Staff

Aquarium decorations aren’t just about making your fish tank look good. They also provide hiding spots to help your fish feel safe. It’s important that you choose suitable aquarium-safe decorations that won’t affect water quality or injure your fish. 

When considering what types of decorations are right for your fish and aquarium setup, think about the size and materials. The Penn-Plax Castle Aquarium Decoration is ideal for medium-sized and large tanks. 

Consider what type of aquarium decoration you want for your tank. Some might also consider the floor of the tank as a type of decoration, but it also provides enrichment for bottom-dwelling fish. 

Check the dimensions of any decorations you’re considering to make sure they fit your tank well and comfortably accommodate your fish. 

Good decorations for fish tanks shouldn’t have any sharp edges that could injure fish. However, smooth openings are of the utmost importance, as fish are more likely to catch their bodies or fins here than anywhere else. 

You can find decorations in a range of styles, from simple logs to classic treasure chests and castles to whimsical underwater designs. 

Basic ornaments and fake plants cost less than $10, while large and elaborate ornaments and treated driftwood can cost as much as $50-$100. 

A. Any fish you keep in a home aquarium like tank decorations because it gives them places to hide. Even though your fish doesn’t care if their environment looks pretty,  the cover the decorations provide makes them feel safer and more secure. 

A. In an ideal world, any product sold as an aquarium ornament or decoration would be 100% safe. However, you may discover unreliable sellers that sell decorations with sharp edges or toxic materials. As such, it’s always best to buy decorations from reputable brands. Before putting any ornaments in your fish tank, check for sharp edges, especially around openings, and file them down if necessary. 

A. Yes, you should clean decorations before you first put them in the tank and whenever there’s significant algae build-up. You don’t need to do anything fancy — just give them a scrub with hot water and an aquarium cleaning brush or soft toothbrush.

What you need to know: Measuring 14.5 inches tall, this decoration is perfect for mid-sized and large aquariums. 

What you’ll love: It’s made from a safe and durable resin that’s painted for realism. It has plenty of different spots for fish to hide in. Since it’s double-sided, it will look good no matter where or how you place it in your tank. 

What you should consider: Some buyers report receiving their castle broken — but you’ll be able to get a refund or replacement if this happens. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Marina Naturals Pickerel Silk Plant

What you need to know: This soft-feeling fabric artificial plant is non-toxic and won’t scratch or injure fish. 

What you’ll love: It’s a great choice for fish that like to hide in plants, and you don’t want to maintain real ones. You can choose from medium or large sizes. It looks realistic and won’t fade. 

What you should consider: The edges of the leaves shred slightly over time. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

Hygger Poly Resin Wood Trunk Aquarium Ornament

What you need to know: Suitable for small tanks of up to 20 gallons, this resin log ornament looks good and gives ample hiding space. 

What you’ll love: It’s hand-painted for a realistic effect. It has three separate openings, so fish have various ways to enter and exit. It’s small enough for compact tanks but still relatively roomy inside. 

What you should consider: You may need to file down the edges for fish with delicate fins. 

Where to buy: Sold by Amazon

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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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