Article: Take the time to make sure you don't have dirty hands. You want to make sure that you don't accidentally introduce germs or dirt into the tank while you clean it. If you use soap, make sure to rinse it off thoroughly. Soap residue can kill fish. It is important to keep all electrical appliances unplugged and away from the tank while you are cleaning it. While these appliances should be made for use in a fish tank, you do not want them to accidentally fall into the tank or be otherwise submerged in water. To clean the tank you will first need to set up a safe and clean place to stash your fish. Find a clean cup or bowl that you can put the fish in. Take some of the water from the Betta's existing tank and place it into the glass or bowl; You will need just enough water so that the fish will have a little room to swim around. In addition, you will need the tools to clean and refresh the tank's water. You will also need: a sink, a plastic cup or net to scoop the fish and water, paper towels and a scrubber to clean the inside of the tank, water conditioner (which is available at most pet or aquarium stores), a sieve to use when cleaning tank gravel, and a plastic spoon. Using a small cup, scoop out 50% to 80% of the water in the tank. Set it aside so that it can be used later on in the tank. This has to be done because you cannot change the water entirely, as it might put the betta into shock. Instead, you will put the water you set aside back into the tank, after it is cleaned. If you are a new owner, you can start by 50% water changes and gradually increase it till you reach 80%. Most of the filth in a betta's tank is in the gravel at the bottom. If you take the water off the top, then you will still be getting rid of most of the dirt and grime when you clean the gravel. Once you have removed some of the water from the tank, scoop your fish with the same cup. Take your time and be careful of the fish's fins. If you go really slow, you may be able to get the fish to settle into the cup while it is underwater, and then you can simply lift it straight up. Place the fish into the glass or bowl that you have already filled with tank water. Keep in mind that while doing this you need to make sure the fish doesn't jump out. Bettas are known jumpers, so put a lid on whatever container you are keeping the fish in.

What is a summary?
Wash your hands! Unplug any heaters, filters, lights, and other equipment before you start. Gather the tools and materials you will need. Scoop water out of the tank. Remove the fish from the tank.