
Substrates like reptile carpet or tiles and even newspaper or paper towels are easier to clean and less likely to contribute to a bad odor. Or, if you’re using substrates like wood chips, they can absorb excess moisture, which can lead to bacterial growth. They can have uneaten food and poop hiding underneath, which are easily missed when you’re doing your daily spot-cleaning. Loose substrates, like sand, are difficult to clean. Sometimes the issue can be with the substrate. Once everything is completely dry, clean all items before placing everything back inside. You need to regularly clean the tank at least once a week, which will include cleaning the substrate and all surfaces with a disinfectant that has no harmful chemicals.įinally, once a month, you need to do a deep cleaning of the enclosure, which is where you remove everything and clean the entire tank with soap and water or a safe disinfectant. You should be spot-cleaning the tank once or twice a day, which includes removing uneaten food and their feces and urates (the white or yellow paste that bearded dragons pass instead of urine). This can help reduce the smell and keep your beardie healthy. If the tank smells, you should stay on top of keeping it clean.
