Aquarium Backgrounds have changed the game, when it comes to styling your aquarium in 2025. . In this article we will cover the latest background trends for fish tanks and aquariums. By the end you will know, how to choose, your tanks background, and discover why some backdrops are better than others. You will know how to install static vinyl backgrounds for Fish Tanks.
You will learn everything you need to know, to transform your fish tank, with a stunning modern aquarium background.
The History Of Static Vinyl Aquarium Backgrounds”My Story”
Fish Tank Aquarium Decoration and Theme Style Guide of Aquarium Backgrounds, is what I wanted to create when I came up with the idea of using AI images as fish tank backgrounds. With countless amounts of pictures and themes and colours and gradients to imagine, for the ai image creator to make, coming up with applications for the images was the hardest part.
Some time passed before I thought of using the images for aquarium backgrounds. The thought came to me in late 2022, when I was opening a box that contained security cameras. While flicking through the directions and warranty papers that came in the box, I discovered a sticker.
Static Vinyl Aquarium Background Sticker
It wasn’t a normal sticker. It stuck to the glass picture side to the glass. It was thin, yet strong, the ink on the sticker was vivid and bright. It stuck to the glass easily, you could peel it off and stick it somewhere else. “How clever I thought.” To cut a long story short, the Static Vinyl aquarium background stickers came to be. If you are interested in the rest of the story, you can click on the
Here you can clearly see the white wall behind the aquarium and apparently the fish don’t like it says Finn.
Aquarium Background Table of Contents
Before we move on, we have provided a table of contents, so you can skip ahead if there is a section that you’re not interested in. Simply click on the title to go to that section.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Aquarium Backgrounds
1 A. Most commonly asked questions
2. Why Proper Tank Materials Matter
3. Types of Aquarium Backgrounds (Detailed Comparison)
4. 12 Premium Vinyl Background Collections
5. Installation Guides (Step-by-Step)
6.. Maintenance and Care
7. Video examples of installation and collections
8. Conclusion and Next Steps
1. Introduction to Aquarium Backgrounds
Aquarium backgrounds do more than just beautify your tank—they create a natural environment for your fish while hiding unsightly cords and equipment. No one wants to see you stark wall shining straight at you through the front of your fish tank. Whether you’re setting up a freshwater community tank or a saltwater reef, choosing the right background is crucial for both aesthetics and fish health.
Modern Fish Tank Backgrounds Have Improved Dramatically
Modern Backgrounds have improved dramatically since the invention of AI images. Tools like Pixlr.ai and Meta.ai have changed the game for background creators. What once would have taken many hours to create, can now be made in the blink of an eye. The images range from traditional types all the way to pop culture and sports.
Gone are the days of having to use posters with sticky tape or messy pots of paint.
A modern background;
There are so many benefits, in changing to a static vinyl image background sticker. The sky is the limit to the amount of themes you can create in your tank, and not only are they beautiful, mysterious, interesting or quirky. I firmly believe they are the way of the future for all levels of fishkeepers..
Key Benefits Using Fish Tank Backgrounds
✔️ Reduces fish stress by minimizing reflections
✔️ Enhances visual depth, making tanks appear larger
✔️ Hides equipment and plumbing for a cleaner look
✔️ Provides environmental enrichment for fish
They also create a theme in your aquarium instantly. How much more you want to add to the tanks theme is entirely up to you.
LCD Sticky Strip Lights Awesome With Backgrounds
LCD sticky strip lights, are cheap, easy to install and can totally transform the look of the background when stuck to the image in key areas.
Plain black vinyl, blue vinyl or white vinyl, is no match for the range of themes, styles and images available while choosing static vinyl over regular vinyl.
1A. Most Commonly Asked Questions About Fish Tank Backgrounds
How do you apply self adhesive to an aquarium background?
You don’t. Glue won’t stick, and paper can only be stuck with sticky tape or blue tac, they both look tacky. Static Vinyl aquarium backgrounds, stick pictures facing the glass, require no adhesive and stick by a form of static electricity.
Clean Your Aquarium With Vinegar Before Background Application
It’s advised to clean your back glass with vinegar and water before re-spraying the mixture again to position your static vinyl decal or cling. While it is wet it is very easy to slide into place and removing the few bubbles that may be visible is easy working from the middle outward, with a plastic card, like a bank card.
How do you clean an aquarium background?
With a damp cloth, providing it’s a vinyl background.
Do fish tank backgrounds go inside?
No on the back out side of the glass, providing it’s a vinyl or paper poster aquarium background. If it’s a 3d background, specifically made for the fish tank, then it will be bonded in some way to the back inside glass.
Instructions for making your own background
The instructions on attaching the background will either come with the product when you purchase it. Or will be included in the tutorial if you are learning how to make one yourself.
How to black out the back of a fish tank?
There are three main methods you can try, for blacking out the back of a fish tank.
1. Using a static vinyl background decal from fishtanks.store. These are jet black, cut to the size of your fish tank, with 33 standard sizes in our range.
2. Using regular vinyl. In this case you stick the sticky side to the back glass of the aquarium. This is actually the back side of the vinyl, however if you go for a opaque, thicker vinyl, you will get good black coverage.
3. Using acrylic black paint. This method will require you buying a tube of acrylic paint, a paint brush, varnish to water proof the paint. You simply paint the back glass as you would paint any other thing. Make sure you clean the area well before you start. Put down a sheet so you don’t splatter paint everywhere. It will require up to three coats of paint. This is so you don’t see the brush stroke marks. The paint will then require 2 coats of varnish.
Tip: Make sure paint is dry!
Make sure the paint is completely dry before adding each new coat of paint. This also applies to the varnish. Once totally dry, you will be able to wipe over it with a damp cloth.
I strongly advise you not to use the painting method if you think you’d like to change the background colour someday, or if you think you might like to sell your aquarium sometime.
‘The paint will be very difficult to remove, and what a mess black paint makes.
How to decorate a fish tank without fish?
Decorating your fish tank, without fish is easier than with your fish. It is also easier if you can start without water. The first step in the process requires washing your substrate. Poor the bag into a bucket and give it a really good swish under the tap. Rinse and rinse again. Even if it says you don’t need to. I would never skip this step. Once finished, add your substrate carefully to the tank.
Creating a natural looking aquarium easily
Depending on what kind of decorating style you plan on using, what happens next will depend on that style. I’m going to assume we are going to go with a natural-looking aquarium, with driftwood, rocks and stones, plants, and, of course, your background.
I’ve gone with a jungle style for this example. Once it’s placed on the outside of the back glass, picture side forward, I smooth it out and check for any bubbles. Remove bubbles with a plastic card, working from the middle out.
Time to place our wood and rocks. It’s generally accepted that a U shape should be created when placing your wood. Make sure it goes across the tank from the back corner of either side diagonally. Next you place the rocks, how you prefer and lastly your plants. Larger plants towards the back.
Plant grasses, piece by piece into the front part of the substrate. Add plants like Anubis and Java Fern to the gaps and crevices in your wood and rocks. Once your happy, fill your tank with water, being careful not to mess up your setup or your substrate too much.
How do I flatten my aquarium background?
You can flatten your background by placing it under something heavy and flat. A rug in a room that people walk over could be good. You could also lie it under a pile of books. You can roll it the opposite direction.
Is it better to have a background on a fish tank?
A background will transform your tank instantly. If it’s a theme image you’re going for, your tank will look professional and amazing. The background makes styling the front of the tank, a whole lot easier. Just add some substrate in a complimentary colour, a couple of plants, real or plastic, whatever your preference. Finally a little fish tank decoration to match your background, some stick on LCD lights and your tank will be your work of art. Family and friends will love the way your tank now pops and your fish will never tire, looking at the new sites to see in their home.
Which background color is best for a fish tank?
I believe a patterned or themed tank is the best idea for a background. You can use any colour that you like, any you can use any theme that you like. If you usually prefer a black background, go for a darker themed image. You can you stick on lcd lights to draw attention to the areas that you want lit up. If you prefer a white background or pale blue, go with a light background image.
Can you make your own aquarium background?
Yes you can make your own aquarium background. You can make a custom order at fishtanks.store. You can choose any of our images, currently over 100, or you can choose your own image and upload it to our website. This is a free of charge service.
What can I use to stick my aquarium background?
You could try using double sided tape or blue tac to stick your aquarium background to your tank.
How to apply vinyl aquarium background?
The easiest way to apply a static vinyl aquarium background is buy using a little soapy water or vinegar and water on the glass of your aquarium. Remove the backing paper and start from the top of the image and smooth all the way down. Once it’s on you can work any bubbles out from the middle to to edge with a plastic card. When the glass is still wet it is easy to move the static vinyl around with a little pressure from the palm of your hand.
Harder to Install a Normal Vinyl Background
It’s a little more tricky to install a normal vinyl background. Again, we pull back the backing paper, but only a quarter the way at a time. Start at the top in the corner and slowly smooth down with the palm of your hand. You won’t be able to move the vinyl once it’s on, as it is stuck with a sticky adhesive. The bubbles can be pushed from the centre out to the sides with a plastic card.
Is it better to have a background on a fish tank?
It is fantastic to use a background on a fish tank, especially a static vinyl background from fishtanks.store. The background quickly and easily creates a theme for your tank. This requires less work for you to do, to get the look your hoping for.
Backgrounds Block The Ugly Wall Showing Through Your Tank
Backgrounds also, block the wall from showing through the front of your fish tank. Backgrounds cover leads and cords, from being seen through the front of your tank. You can turn your tank into any look you love with a background. You can stick lcd lights to the background to strategically light certain parts of the image. A fish tank background turns your tank instantly into a one of a kind creation. They are the modern aquarium decoration to style your fish tank with in 2025.
2. Why Proper Tank Materials Matter
Not all plastics and decorations are safe for aquarium use. Some can leach harmful chemicals, while others may have sharp edges that could injure fish.
While new static vinyl backgrounds attach to the outside of the glass, pictures face forward, 3D-type backgrounds are stuck to the inside of the fish tank’s back wall glass. It’s important to be aware of the material the product is made from when choosing one of these types of backdrops.
Read Labels on Submersible Aquarium Backgrounds
When choosing a submersible aquarium background, or any ornament or substrate for your aquarium, it’s important to read the labels and find out what the item is actually made of. Use our checklist below to determine if the product will be safe for your aquatic creatures.
Safety Checklist for Aquarium Materials:
✅ Non-toxic (BPA-free, FDA-approved plastics)
✅ Durable (Won’t degrade in water)
✅ Fish-friendly (No sharp edges or small parts)
✅ Easy to clean (Smooth surfaces resist algae)
Warning Signs of Unsafe Materials:
❌ Strong chemical smell
❌ Paint that chips or peels
❌ Fuzzy mould growth (on low-quality plastics)
3. Types of Fish Tank Aquarium Backgrounds
Fish Tank Backdrops fit into four different groups. Below, we look at the pros and cons associated with each group of backgrounds. We’ve also advised, in our expert opinion, who we believe the background group would be best for, along with the situation, it would be most suitable in.
The Winner of the best background for aquariums and fish tanks goes to:
“Fish tank vinyl static cling backgrounds” The winner of the award for the best overall fish tank and aquarium background product.
Read on to discover, what other products are available as background clings for tanks. It’s very obvious that new static vinyl is the perfect choice. Because the vinyl is forward facing the picture clings to the tank, making it clear and easy to see. The amount of designs that static vinyl are available in are limitless.
A. Vinyl Static Cling Backgrounds (Best Overall Choice)
Pros:
✔️ Reusable and repositionable
✔️ No adhesive residue
✔️ Affordable compared to 3D options
✔️ Easy to install (just clean your glass and sticks by static)
Cons:
✖️ Less textured than 3D backgrounds
Best For: Most home aquariums, aquarists ready to try a modern approach to aquarium styling
B. Adhesive Vinyl Fish Tank Aquarium Backgrounds
Pros:
✔️ Permanent stick (won’t shift over time)
✔️ Wide variety of designs
Stick to the tank design side backward. The glue is on the non picture side.
Cons:
✖️ Harder to remove (can leave residue)
✖️ Must be applied perfectly on first try
Best For: Long-term setups where you won’t change the background often.
C. 3D Aquarium Backgrounds
Pros:
✔️ Ultra-realistic depth and texture
✔️ Provides hiding spots for fish
Cons:
✖️ Expensive
✖️ Difficult to clean
✖️ Takes up tank space
Best For: Show tanks and cichlid aquariums.
D. Poster & Printed Backgrounds and Painted
Pros:
✔️ Cheapest option
✔️ Huge variety of designs
Cons:
✖️ Fades over time
✖️ Can peel when wet
Needs sticky tape to apply. Doesn’t sit flush with the glass for long, so picture is not clear. The paper gets dusty, unable to really be cleaned. Paint isn’t much better. It goes on streaky, usually leaves brush hair marks on the glass surface, difficult to change colour or remove entirely.
Best For: Temporary setups or quarantine tanks.
E. PVC for DIY Decor
A DIY Background could be made, providing the diy-er uses aquarium safe materials. It can be made by using a matt made of plastic filter material, even pot scrubbers, stitched together with acrylic string.
Plants can then be held onto the matt, with more acrylic string or aquarium safe Super Glue, to create a cool background.
This type of 3d background, could be difficult to keep clean, and I haven’t made one before, but the guys at Aquariumcoop.com have an article with a how to on their blog. Here is the link to their DIY 3d Background Tutorial.
When creating a DIY 3d Background Be Sure Too:
Use: Only uncoloured, aquarium-safe PVC (soak before use).
DIY Idea: Sand edges for fish caves.
❌ Avoid These Unsafe Materials
Adhesive stickers (interior use).
Painted ceramics (peels in water).
4. 12 Premium Static Vinyl Background Collections
By now you must be thinking, ok I’m ready to see some of these cool aquarium backgrounds. As we previously mentioned, static vinyl aquarium background clings are the easiest and most effective product to use.
Fishtanks,store, currently hold over 100 different designs, in 33 sizes. The images are all pixel perfect for what ever size tank you are using them on. Our only suggestion is to try using lcd stick on lighting on the back of your background, to really bring out the features, and set your tank up for the biggest transformation.
12 Collections in All: Fish Tank Backgrounds
We have 12 collections currently; here is an overview of each category of Fish Tank Aquarium Backgrounds
(All materials FDA-approved and fish-safe.)‘
1. Nature Series Static Vinyl Clings 🌿
Best For: Planted tanks, bettas.
Material: Static cling (no adhesive). Shop Now. Beautiful seamless patterns mostly great for small or large tanks
2. Ocean Wave Vinyl 🌊
Best For: Saltwater vibes.
Install Tip: Our awesome collection of static vinyl backgrounds only require the use of soapy water for perfect alignment.
3. Flowery Blooms
Best For: Large Aquariums
Install Tip: Seamless pattern however larger sized aquariums, design comes in more than 1 numbered piece.
4. Another World
Best For: Tanks wanting to focus on the background, some substrate and little need for anything else
Material: Static cling (no adhesive). Shop Now for fish tank aquarium background
5. Under the Water
Best For: River tank vibe
Install Tip: Use soapy water for perfect alignment.
6. Fairy Tales
Best For: The kids tanks
Install Tip: Larger tanks pieces come exact cut to fit and numbered
7. Sports Aquarium Decoration
Best For: Minimal Decoration Tanks Best for sports fans, great for any size
Material: Static cling (no adhesive). Shop Now.
8. Treehouses
Best For: People who love whimsicle tree houses
and want their Tank to feature the background treehouse background
Install Tip: Use soapy water for perfect alignment.
9. Castles
Best For: People wanting their aquarium to feature a stunning castle backdrop
Install Tip: Larger sized aquariums, the design comes in more than 1 numbered piece. This is for easy application.
10. Minecraft- Nemo- Sponge Bob Styles
Best For: Tanks wanting to create one of these huge Gaming or Tv Character Styles
Material: Static cling (no adhesive). Shop Now.
11. Specialty
Best For: Every sized tank, all images are pixel perfect and include themes like stained glass windows, the beach, mermaids and many other popular pop culture
Install Tip: Use soapy water for perfect alignment.
12. Create Your Own
Best For: Those wanting to use their own image
Install Tip: Simply upload your image file to our website or email and we will use your image to create your very own background. No extra cost.
How to Measure and Install Vinyl Backgrounds
The first step in getting the right fish tank aquarium background cling for your tank requires, ordering the correct size at the checkout.
Make certain to measure the width of your tank, from left to right in centimetres, and then the height of the tank, again in centimetres.
Measure Twice Cut Once “Carpenters Rule”
Make sure to note these measurements down, so you order the correct size. If your exact size isn’t in our list, we find it better to order just a little smaller, this saves you having to cut your sticker.
How to Apply Your Fish Tank Aquarium Background
Tank sizes up to 50cm wide, will have their background delivered in one single piece. When larger than 50cm your sticker is cut depending on the size you require.
Pieces are Numbered for Easy Application
Each piece is numbered for easy application. It is much easier to apply your decal to your aquarium in smaller pieces than one large sheet, that could be difficult to remove the air bubbles from. To apply:
Step 1: Clean glass with vinegar.
Step 2: Mist water on cling side.
Step 3: Apply from top to bottom.
Step 4. Remove any air bubbles with a plastic card.
Step 5. Work from the middle outwards
Maintenance & Care
Cleaning: Wipe with vinegar-water (1:1).
Storage: Roll with print side out.
Lifespan: Replace every 2-3 years
Frequently Asked Questions
As you are now aware, adding a fish tank aquarium background to your aquarium, especially a cool fish tank background from fishtanks.store is pretty easy. However, when it comes to other backgrounds, like painting the back glass of your aquarium black, or blue, or trying out a DIY 3d background, is a little more involved. ‘
We have tried to answer any question that has come up in this article or in our Common Questions section at the beginning of this article. If you have any questions not covered here, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments. We will be more than happy to respond to you quickly.
Well I hope you enjoyed out guide to static fish tank aquarium backgrounds.
By now you will know exactly what they are, what they are best used for, and most importantly, that they will instantly transform your aquarium. You will now be able to have any aquarium decor your inspired to create, in just a couple of minutes, by using a background.
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Please reach out if we can be of any further assistance.
Regards, Sharon Thoms author
(owner of fishtanks.store)