Do Leopard Gecko Need a Humid Hide?

If you own a leopard gecko, you might have heard of the term “humid hide”.

But what is it exactly and why is it important for your pet?

In this article, we will explain what a humid hide is, how it benefits your leopard gecko, how to make one, and how to maintain it.

Let’s dive in…

 

What’s a Humid Hide and Why Does It Matter?

A humid hide is like a cozy spot for your leopard gecko that gives them a bit of extra moisture.

Picture a small box or container with an opening for your gecko to go in and out. Inside, you’d fill it with things like damp moss, coconut fiber, or paper towels. People also call it a moist hide, wet hide, or shedding box.

So, why is this important for your leopard gecko?

Well, these little creatures come from places with low humidity, but they still need some moisture for their skin. The humid hide helps them shed their old skin and prevents them from getting too dry.

When it’s time to shed, they look for these humid spots to make their skin soft and easy to peel off.

Without enough moisture, shedding could be tricky, and that might lead to infections or injuries, even losing toes or their tail.

How to make a humid hide for your leopard gecko

Making a humid hide for your leopard gecko is easy and inexpensive.

You can use various materials and containers to create a humid hide, such as:

• A plastic food container with a hole cut in the lid or side
• A ceramic or plastic flower pot with a hole in the bottom or side
• A cardboard box with a hole in the side
• A coconut shell with a hole in the side
• A PVC pipe with a cap on one end and a hole in the side

You can also buy ready-made humid hides from pet stores or online, but make sure they are big enough for your leopard gecko to fit comfortably and turn around.

The substrate you use for the humid hide should be able to retain moisture and be safe for your leopard gecko. Some of the best options are:

• Sphagnum moss, which is soft, fluffy, and mold-resistant
• Coco fiber, which is natural, biodegradable, and absorbent
• Paper towels, which are cheap, easy to replace, and hygienic

Avoid using substrates that are dusty, sharp, or edible, such as sand, gravel, wood chips, or hay, as they can cause impaction, irritation, or infection.

Also place the humid hide in the middle or warm area of the enclosure, where the temperature is between 80°F and 90°F.

This will ensure that the humidity is high enough and that your leopard gecko can regulate its body temperature.

Don’t place the humid hide in the cool area, where the temperature is below 75°F, as this can cause respiratory problems or fungal growth  and keep the humid hide moist but not wet. For this, you can spray the substrate with water every day or every other day, depending on the humidity level in your enclosure.

How to take care of the humid hide

Make sure to clean the humid hide regularly by getting rid of any leftover skin, poop, or mess inside. Change the bedding every week or two, depending on how dirty it gets.

Wash the container with hot water and soap, or use a safe cleaner for reptiles.

Keep an eye on the humidity inside the hide using a digital hygrometer, a tool that measures the moisture in the air. Place it inside the hide or attach it to the container’s side.

The ideal humidity is between 70% and 90%. If it’s too low, spray the bedding more or add some. If it’s too high, spray less or remove some bedding.

Adjust the humidity based on what your leopard gecko likes.

Some may prefer more or less humidity depending on their preferences, health, or shedding patterns. Watch for signs of stress like hiding, laziness, or loss of appetite.

Also, check their skin and eyes for signs of dehydration like wrinkles, dullness, or sunkenness.

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F.A.Q.s

Q: How often should I change the bedding in the humid hide?

Change the bedding every week or two, depending on how dirty it gets.

Remove any shed skin, poop, or mess that builds up inside.

Q: What if my leopard gecko doesn’t use the humid hide?

Make sure the humid hide is big, comfy, and easy for your gecko to reach. Also, ensure the temperature and humidity are right.

Encourage your gecko by putting treats or bugs inside, or gently placing your gecko in there.

Q: How do I know if my leopard gecko is shedding?

Look for signs like the skin turning white or dull, increased hiding or rubbing, or loss of appetite.

Provide a humid hide during shedding, avoid bothering your gecko, and check for any stuck shed, especially on toes or tail.

Help remove it gently with warm water or a damp cotton swab.