Empty and rinse the collection cup two or three times a week, more often with a heavy bioload. Wipe the neck when you empty the cup. About every six months, take the skimmer out and soak the body and pump in a weak vinegar or citric acid solution to dissolve the build-up, then rinse well.
The cup: two or three times a week
Reef Builders suggests cleaning the cup three times a week as a baseline: once or twice may be enough in a lightly stocked tank, and daily in a heavily fed one. Skimmate rinses off easily with fresh water and a wipe.
A full cup can overflow back into the sump, putting the waste straight back in.
The neck: when you empty the cup
Skimmate film builds up inside the neck and slows the foam. Wipe it with a soft brush or cloth when you empty the cup. Some skimmers have built-in neck cleaners.
The deep clean: about every six months
Reef Builders suggests a full clean about every six months. Drain the skimmer, take it out of the sump and soak the body in one part white vinegar to 10–20 parts water until the deposits wipe away.
Soak the pump, impeller and any sensors in the same solution, scrub with a small brush, and rinse everything well with fresh water. Citric acid works too; see cleaning pumps with citric acid.
Salt creep
Reef Builders warns that salt creep around the air intake restricts air flow and reduces skimming. Rinse it off with fresh water about once a month, using a turkey baster or syringe to reach small spaces.
After a deep clean, many skimmers take a few days to settle and produce good foam again. Adjust the water level if it overflows.
Common questions
How often should I clean my skimmer cup?
Two or three times a week is a common baseline. More often with heavy feeding.
Can I use vinegar to clean my skimmer?
Yes. Reef Builders suggests one part white vinegar to 10–20 parts water, then a thorough rinse.
Why is my skimmer not producing foam after cleaning?
Many skimmers need a few days to settle after a clean.
Sources and limits
Last checked 13 October 2026. Follow your equipment maker’s own instructions where they differ from this guide.
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