I use vinegar and a scrubby on the top of the tank or anyplace there is a good chance of getting something in the tank. I use just water and a scrubby sponge most of the time, only go with vinegar if something will not come off. For the viewing panes I carefully use Windex and have never had a problem. As I am sure you are aware you need to have sponges that are dedicated to tank cleaning, dish soap in the tank would be bad.