Best Sponge Aquarium Filters of 2025

Chloe Foster Avatar
Chloe Foster
Last Updated: 6 Feb 2025

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Sponge aquarium filters are a popular choice among fish enthusiasts for their efficient and reliable performance. These filters are made of high-quality sponge material that effectively removes debris, waste, and harmful toxins from the aquarium water. Sponge aquarium filters are easy to install and maintain, and they provide a safe and healthy environment for fish to thrive. They come in various sizes and shapes to fit different aquariums, and they are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Overall, sponge aquarium filters are a great investment for any aquarium owner looking to stabilise the water quality and ensure the well-being of their aquatic pets.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

High Quality Air Driven Sponge Filter for Aquariums Cover #TOP 1
High Quality Air Driven Sponge Filter for Aquariums
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Pawfly Nano Bio Sponge Filter for Small Tanks Cover #TOP 2
Pawfly Nano Bio Sponge Filter for Small Tanks
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Pawfly Large Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter for 240 Litre Tanks Cover #TOP 3
Pawfly Large Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter for 240 Litre Tanks
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Sponge Aquarium Filters

#TOP 1

High Quality Air Driven Sponge Filter for Aquariums

unknown
1 Count (Pack of 1)
High Quality Air Driven Sponge Filter for Aquariums Cover
Air Driven Double Sponge Filter for Aquarium Fish Tank Bio-Sponge Filter Discus

The Finest-Filters Sponge Filter is a high-quality air driven filter suitable for all types of aquariums. With its included suction cups, you can easily secure it to the side of your tank, ensuring stability. This filter is particularly beneficial for breeding or fry tanks, providing a safe environment for young fish. Additionally, it is popular among cichlid and discus keepers, as it promotes a healthy aquatic habitat. An air pump is required to operate the filter, which can be purchased separately if needed.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Easy to attach
Ideal for breeding tanks
Popular with cichlid keepers
Versatile for all aquariums
#TOP 2

Pawfly Nano Bio Sponge Filter for Small Tanks

Pawfly-CW0608-BK
Up to 040 L
Pawfly Nano Bio Sponge Filter for Small Tanks Cover
Pawfly 3 Pack Aquarium Nano Bio Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Foam Filter for Tiny Fish Tank up to 40 litre

The Pawfly Sponge Filter is designed for small aquariums up to 40 litres, providing effective fine sponge filtration that keeps your tank crystal clear. Its mini size makes it ideal for breeding and feeding ornamental fish, shrimp, or fry. Cleaning is a breeze, as each filter detaches easily for a quick rinse every 2 to 4 weeks, using only aquarium water. Additionally, it operates quietly, ensuring that your daily life remains undisturbed while promoting oxygen circulation for a healthier aquatic environment.

What We Like
Effective mechanical and biological filtration
Ideal for small fish tanks
Easy to clean and maintain
Quiet operation for minimal disturbance
Promotes oxygen circulation
#TOP 3

Pawfly Large Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter for 240 Litre Tanks

Up to 240 L
Pawfly Large Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter for 240 Litre Tanks Cover
Pawfly Large Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Foam Filter for Fish Tank up to 240 Litre Visit the Store

The Pawfly Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter is designed to keep your fish tank clean and healthy. With fine sponge filtration, it traps debris while ensuring your fish remain safe. Its large size accommodates tanks up to 240 litres, making it ideal for breeding and feeding ornamental fish, shrimp, or fry. Cleaning is a breeze, as the filter can be easily detached and rinsed with aquarium water every 2-4 weeks. Enjoy quiet aeration, allowing you to maintain your tank without disturbing your daily life.

What We Like
Effective mechanical and biological filtration
Large size for bigger tanks
Easy to clean and maintain
Quiet operation for minimal disturbance
#TOP 4

hygger Double Sponge Filter for Aquariums

Black
hygger Double Sponge Filter for Aquariums Cover
hygger Aquarium Double Sponge Filter Super Biochemical Filter Sponges for Aquarium Fish Tank Up to 150L Aquarium Filter with Media Container for Fish Tank Oxygen Increasing and Cycle (Filter)

The hygger Sponge Filter offers excellent mechanical and biological filtration for your aquarium. Its double 10-layer ribbing sponges create ample surface area, allowing beneficial nitrifying bacteria to thrive, which promotes faster cycling and cleaner water. The included media container with ceramic bio filter media enhances water quality by removing harmful substances. Installation is simple; just connect it to your air pump and adjust the water flow exit tube to suit your setup, ensuring a comfortable environment for your fish.

What We Like
Effective mechanical and biological filtration
Increases oxygen levels in water
Easy to install and adjust
Suitable for various fish types
Includes replaceable filter media
#TOP 5

Pawfly Corner Sponge Filter for Fish Tanks

Pawfly Corner Sponge Filter for Fish Tanks Cover
Pawfly Aquarium Corner Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Bio Foam Filter with Natural Stones Gravels and Ceramic Rings for Fish Tanks up to 120 L (Air Pump Not Included)

The Pawfly Sponge Filter offers multi-layer filtration to keep your aquarium crystal clear and healthy. Its fine sponge design traps debris without harming your fish, ensuring a safe environment. Additionally, the bottom gravels absorb harmful substances while releasing essential trace elements, promoting a fresher habitat. With quiet aeration, this filter operates without disturbing your daily life, and the adjustable outlet tubing allows for optimal oxygen circulation. Enjoy the convenience of a clean, healthy tank with this effective filtration solution.

What We Like
Effective multi-layer filtration
Quiet operation
Easy to clean
Customisable filter materials
Promotes healthy water conditions
#TOP 6

Air Driven Sponge Filter for Aquariums

Air Driven Sponge Filter for Aquariums Cover
Air Driven Sponge Filter For Aquarium Fish Tank Bio Foam Filters Breeding Various Sizes (Small (For upto 40L))

The Finest-Filters Sponge Filter provides an ideal solution for maintaining a healthy aquarium environment. Aerobic bacteria thrive in the sponge, which supports the nitrogen cycle and promotes a balanced ecosystem. It also traps larger waste particles, ensuring your water remains crystal clear without endangering baby fish. Cleaning is effortless; you can detach the filter and rinse it with aquarium water every 2-4 weeks, preserving the beneficial bacteria while avoiding harmful tap water. This makes it a convenient choice for aquarium enthusiasts.

What We Like
Supports nitrogen cycle
Prevents baby fish entrapment
Easy to clean
Maintains clear water
#TOP 7

Pawfly Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter with Accessories

SNL613
Up to 080 L
Pawfly Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter with Accessories Cover
Pawfly Aquarium Bio Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Foam Filter with Airline Tubing Control Valve Suction Cup Connector and Check Valve Accessories for Fish Tanks up to 80 Litre

The Pawfly Sponge Filter is designed for effective filtration in small aquariums up to 80 litres. It comes with essential accessories, including airline tubing and a control valve, ensuring you have everything needed for easy setup. The fine sponge filtration captures debris without harming your fish, helping you maintain crystal clear water. Additionally, its compact size makes it suitable for breeding and feeding various ornamental fish and shrimp. Cleaning is a breeze, as the filter can be detached and rinsed with aquarium water every few weeks.

What We Like
Quiet operation
Easy to clean
Includes essential accessories
Effective mechanical and biological filtration
Compact size for small tanks
#TOP 8

hygger Aquarium Sponge Filter with Bio-Ceramic Balls

HG120
Black
M for 91-250L tank
hygger Aquarium Sponge Filter with Bio-Ceramic Balls Cover
hygger Aquarium Sponge Filter, Fish Tank Filter, Submersible Internal Foam Aquarium Filter for 91-250L Breeding Fry Shrimp Snails Betta Tank with Filtered Ceramic Balls and Spare Sponge(M)

The hygger Sponge Filter is designed for effective precision double filtration, making it ideal for breeding fish like bettas and guppies. It operates using an air pump, allowing rising bubbles to create water flow, effectively removing waste and improving water quality. With high-density biochemical cotton, it captures impurities and particles easily, while bio-ceramic balls break down waste and foster beneficial bacteria. Additionally, a built-in bubble stone enhances oxygen levels, benefiting your aquatic life.

What We Like
Effective dual filtration
Easy to maintain
Improves oxygen levels
Suitable for various tank sizes
Ideal for breeding fish
#TOP 9

Pawfly Mini Aquarium Sponge Filter for Small Fish

CW2215-WT-UK
White
5 cm OD
Pawfly Mini Aquarium Sponge Filter for Small Fish Cover
Pawfly Mini Aquarium Sponge Filter Quiet Betta Fry Shrimp and Small Fish Bio Filter for betta tank with Foam and Filter Balls Submersible Filter for Fish Tanks up to 20 L(Air Pump Not Included)

The Pawfly Mini Filter is designed to keep your aquarium clean and healthy. Its mechanical filtration effectively traps debris and waste, ensuring your fish enjoy clear water. With mini filter balls, it also provides deep cleaning by blocking larger particles and promoting beneficial bacteria growth. This filter is ideal for tanks up to 20 litres and operates quietly, producing a cascade of bubbles that enhances oxygen circulation for your aquatic friends.

What We Like
Effective mechanical filtration
Deep cleaning with filter balls
Quiet operation for peaceful tanks
Easy to clean and maintain
Suitable for small fish and shrimp
#TOP 10

AQQA Double Sponge Filter with Bio Balls

3W for 35-150L
AQQA Double Sponge Filter with Bio Balls Cover
AQQA Aquarium Double Sponge Filter, 3W/5W Quiet Electric Power Fish Tank Filter, Submersible Foam Filter with 4 Sponges, 1 Bag of Bio Filtered Ceramic Balls (S)

The AQQA Sponge Filter is an efficient aquarium filter that combines powerful electric filtration with a simple design. With its upgraded motor, you won't need an additional air pump, making setup easier for you. The dual filtration system ensures both physical and biochemical cleansing, capturing dirt and purifying water effectively. Plus, the adjustable 360° water outlet allows you to customise water flow for any tank depth, enhancing circulation and oxygen levels for your aquatic life.

What We Like
Powerful motor for efficient filtration
Adjustable water outlet for flexibility
Includes replacement sponges and accessories
Suitable for fresh and saltwater
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are sponge filters good for aquarium?

Yes, a sponge filter helps to clean your aquarium, but it's essentially like a trash can that collects waste and needs to be emptied out every once in a while. We recommend cleaning your sponge filter once a month or whenever you see a decrease in bubbles (which is caused by the foam getting clogged up with detritus).

2. Is sponge filter good for planted aquarium?

Filter designs to avoid For sponge filters in a CO2 injected planted tank, the bubble lifts off gases quite a bit of CO2. Also, unless there is supplementary flow through additional pumps, I find that most sponge filters don't give optimal flow patterns in a tank.

3. Do sponge filters clean the water?

As the sponge pulls water through its porous surface, it traps debris, leaving the water clean as it is passed out of the filter at the top. Since debris is being trapped within the sponge, it leaves the water clear and clean. It's actually a really simple and cheap way to keep your aquarium water free from nasties.

Editor's Notes

During our sponge aquarium filter research, we found 110 sponge aquarium filter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 22,570 customer reviews through our big data system to write the sponge aquarium filters list. We found that most customers choose sponge aquarium filters with an average price of £8.56.

The sponge aquarium filters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of sponge aquarium filters, including Finest-Filters, Pawfly, hygger, AQQA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 1,769 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Chloe Foster Avatar

Happy Pet Happy Owner by Chloe Foster sold over 100 thousand copies in the UK. Chloe worked as a veterinarian in The Veterinary Medicines Directorate, Woodham. She stayed for seven years before coming home to set up her pet store in Swansea. Chloe is an experienced veterinarian with a flair for literature. Chloe is vast in the knowledge of animals, animal nutrition, medication, and care.