Best Filter Floss for Planted Tanks (2026)

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Filter floss, also called polishing wool, is a fine, fluffy mechanical media that catches the small particles other media let slip through. In a planted tank, it is the difference between water that looks clean and water that looks truly crystal clear, since it traps the fine debris stirred up by trimming, feeding, and substrate work. It is inexpensive and easy to cut to fit almost any filter tray or chamber. Floss suits anyone chasing that polished, glass-clear look, and it is especially handy after a rescape or heavy maintenance when the water clouds up. Because it clogs faster than coarser media, plan to rinse or replace it regularly, and place it after your coarser mechanical media so it is not overwhelmed. If your tank is basically healthy but the water never looks quite crisp, adding a layer of filter floss is a cheap, effective upgrade.