🏠 Introduction
Leopard geckos are one of the most popular pet reptiles for beginners and experienced keepers alike. A proper enclosure setup is the foundation of your gecko’s health, comfort, and behavior. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to create a safe, enriching, and functional habitat.
📏 Enclosure Size and Type
Leopard geckos do well in glass terrariums that offer good visibility and ventilation. A 20-gallon long tank is ideal for a single adult.
✅ Recommended tank dimensions:
30 x 12 x 12 inches (76 x 30 x 30 cm)
🌡️ Heating and Temperature Gradient
Leopard geckos are ectothermic, so proper heating is crucial.
- Warm side: 88–92°F (31–33°C)
- Cool side: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
- Nighttime: Not below 68°F (20°C)
👉 Use an under-tank heat mat regulated by a digital thermostat. Avoid heat rocks—they can cause burns.
🧱 Substrate Selection: Safety First
Avoid loose substrates like sand, which can cause impaction. Instead, use:
- Reptile carpet
- Paper towels (for hatchlings or quarantine)
- Non-adhesive shelf liner
- Tile (easy to clean)
🛖 Hides and Decor
Your gecko needs at least 3 hides:
- Warm hide
- Cool hide
- Moist hide (aids with shedding)
Enhance enrichment with rocks, cork bark, and climbing branches.
💧 Humidity and Water
Leopard geckos thrive at 30–40% humidity. Use a shallow water dish and mist the humid hide.
Add moist sphagnum moss inside the humid hide for successful shedding.
💡 Lighting (Optional But Useful)
Leopard geckos don’t need UVB to survive, but low-level UVB (2.0–5.0) may benefit their health. Provide a natural day/night cycle with ambient room light or a timer.
🧼 Cleaning and Maintenance
- Spot clean daily (remove poop, uneaten food)
- Deep clean monthly (replace substrate, sanitize surfaces)
- Wash water dishes every few days with hot water and no soap.
🧾 Final Checklist
✅ Proper size tank
✅ Heat mat + thermostat
✅ Safe substrate
✅ 3 types of hides
✅ Water dish + hygrometer
✅ Low UVB lighting (optional)
✅ Enrichment items
✅ Cleaning schedule
🐾 Conclusion
A well-set-up enclosure keeps your leopard gecko stress-free and healthy. Don’t rush—take time to build a habitat that’s safe, enriching, and easy to maintain. Your gecko will thank you with years of companionship!