How to get rid of tough algae?

[Galligak]

I bought a tank over the weekend that came with 4 fake plants lots of gravel and this fake coral bit. My mother told me to just through the plants and coral thingy away but I'm too stubborn and a little too frugal for that. I cleaned the gravel and the plants with a toothbrush and some water and the algae that was crusted on them came off fairly easily. Now I'm about to tackle the coral and there are bits that I can't reach. Is there anything I can do to salvage the coral piece or should I just give it up? Here are some pictures

 

[Galligak]

I talked to my dad, who doesn't do fish tanks but somewhat knows about getting rid of algae said just to power wash it... Which we'll be doing tomorrow-hopefully.