Aquarium water marks on outer panels.

[William B]

Hi, I've brought a second hand tank and I'm in the process off cleaning it but I cant get these water marks / stains off. They are on the front outer panel, look like little burst bubble marks? (Dried rain drops) I've tried vinegar but nothing is moving them. Maybe a polish paste?
I've attached some pictures but it's hard to capture them.
Thanks

 

[William B]

If I wet them you can see them better, never had this before on a tank?
Will

 

[MichaelJ]

I would think distilled White vinegar and a coarse sponge should do the job.... but you already tried that. if you can feel it on the surface with the tip of your fingers I would think it can come off.. Some would suggest using a razor blade - make sure the surface is wet though - and try it in an inconspicuous location first to make sure you do not leave scratches.

Cheers,
Michael

 

[xZaiox]

Some would suggest using a razor blade - make sure the surface is wet though - and try it in an inconspicuous location first to make sure you do not leave scratches.

This was literally going to my suggestion. I use razors to remove hard water stains - it works incredibly well. If you get the area wet, and then go over it, it should take it off pretty much straight away. Keep the blade flat against the glass and apply even pressure - I've never had any scratches doing it this way. As Michael said though, maybe start on a side-panel first just so you're confident before moving on to the front glass.

Be extra careful around the silicone seams, you don't want to knick that with a razor. Switch to a coarse sponge for that area.

 

[seedoubleyou]

Give lemon a go mate.

 

[Aqua sobriquet]

Many years ago I bought a pack of plastic blades, they’ve come in very handy.

 

[ian_m]

If they are limescale marks just use Kilrock limescale remover, preferably outside as a bit wiffy. Wash thoroughly, hopefully job done.

 

[Aqua sobriquet]

Most descalers are just Citric Acid. I buy tubs of it on eBay, it’s much cheaper.

 

[Mortis]

Dip kitchen paper towels in vinegar and slap them on to 10-15 minutes before trying the razor or scrubber. Should be easier to get rid of then. You can finish by polishing with a melamaine sponge/magic scrubber.
Instead of vinegar you can make a concentrated solution of citric acid and try that instead. They both work better when warmed

 

[William B]

Managed to get all off, soaked in vinegar then polished out with a glass polish.
Thanks all