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9 Most Durable & Spacious Reptile Enclosure
Modified: December 6, 2023
Make your reptile pets feel at home with a reptile enclosure. Check out these 9 most sturdy and spacious enclosures to house your reptile friend here.
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Reptile enclosures can be a great addition to your home. Aside from simply providing your reptile friend a place to hang in style like a proper crocodile, they can also add personality to any four-walled room.
A reptile enclosure is very vital for your reptilian pets, it’s not just the exotic flair you need for your tropical jungle aesthetic. Case in point, a simple DIY terrarium falls short of providing the best environment. Reptile pet parents should know that their little crawlers can’t simply live in a cardboard box. You need a reptile enclosure, pronto!
Why A Reptile Enclosure Is Important
Reptiles are animals that require a specific type of environment for them to thrive. If you think they can survive solely in an underwater ecosystem — then you are thinking wrong. Reptiles are cold-blooded creatures that need ample humidity, temperature, and space to live their best lives.
Though reptiles are considerably low-maintenance compared to other pets, they still deserve the best care as much as possible. A reptile enclosure is the least pet owners can provide, but it makes all the difference. Giving your reptile its own space is beneficial to its healthy living!
Read more: How To Build An Outdoor Cat Enclosure
9 Most Durable & Spacious Reptile Enclosure
We have rounded up the nine most durable and spacious reptile enclosures you can get on Amazon. Check out these different enclosures that can open your space and your pet’s domestic oasis.
If you’re prioritizing size and space for your reptile pet, then the WACOOL Full Glass Terrarium is one of the best you can get now. This enclosure packs a punch with a lot of features that go beyond your classic glass and steel combo. One of the most notable features your turtle will slowly but surely appreciate is its raised base frame that can accommodate a substrate heater to keep it warm.
Key Features
- Overhead screen ventilation
- Front-opening enclosure
- Waterproof elevated base
Specifications
- 36 x 18 x 12 inches enclosure size
- Made of top-grade tempered glass
- Patented flat packaging design
- 35-gallon terrarium
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- The waterproof base can double as a terrarium and aquarium.
- The two-door front opening doors can be opened separately to prevent your pet from escaping, making feeding easy without the worry of your pet escaping.
- The removable mesh ceiling provides ideal ventilation and easy access when cleaning.
Cons
- More expensive compared to other reptile enclosures
Lizards, geckos, and chameleons are among the most common reptile pets in the world now. They’re cute, compact, and observing them is better than watching National Geographic. If you feel this way, the Oiibo 10 Gallon Reptile Tank Terrarium can give you not just the front but the whole 360°-seat into your reptile’s sheltered life. This enclosure features a white trim finish that combines well with the surrounding glass, giving you an immaculate view of your tiny dragon.
Key Features
- Lift and pull top sliding screen door
- A covered feeding hole
- A waterproof PVC bottom tray
Specifications
- 20 x 12 x 10 inches enclosure size
- 10-gallon tank
Pros
- No frills assembly with easy instructions
- Provides a 360-degree point of view
- Lightweight
- Hole on top makes feeding convenient
Cons
- The corners are not siliconed together, which can cause leaks.
The CalPalmy Reptile Tank is one of the best-sellers in reptile enclosures on Amazon. Its unique sleek design is a hit amongst baby reptile owners, fitting almost all aesthetics you’re going for. You can get this terrarium with its UVA and UVB lamp accessories to make sure you’re tiny reptile boopers are getting proper heat and lighting.
Key Features
- A removable top mesh screen
- Removable platform with a built-in food tray
- Front-door panel with two rotating clock lock systems
Specifications
- 19 x 10 x 10 inches reptile enclosure
- High-grade acrylic panel doors
- Also comes in a green color option
Pros
- Unique modern design
- Lightweight and portable
Cons
- It looks cheaply made.
- The top mesh screen is not too secure and is a bit sharp.
- The terrarium is prone to leaks.
- The rotating locks can malfunction over time.
A vertical reptile enclosure can mimic the heights of forest vines and trees, which is always ideal for most reptiles. If you’re caring for a pet that enjoys crawling on more space, the REPTI ZOO Reptile Glass Terrarium is one of the best vertical tanks you can get. This enclosure can make your iguanas, snakes, and even frogs feel as if they’re in their natural habitat.
Key Features
- Raised base frame
- Removable top mesh screen
- Double-hinged door with anti-escape safety lock
Specifications
- 18 x 18 x 24 inches enclosure size
- 30-gallon glass terrarium
Pros
- Elevated base frame opens a space for a substrate heater
- Easy to assemble
- Has a waterproof bottom
Cons
- There are no handles for the panel doors.
- The key for the safety lock is quite small and opening and closing the doors can be a hassle.
A tortoise is easily one of the best pet reptiles you can have. Some people might find them incredibly mundane, but you never know with these steadfast creatures. Getting your home buddy the Ogrmar Tortoise Habitat Enclosure Cage will give you a birds-eye view of your pet. This terrarium can also be utilized outdoors and indoors thanks to its weatherproof cedarwood. Your turtle friend will definitely appreciate the big space the Ogrmar Tortoise Habitat Enclosure provides.
Key Features
- Two-room enclosure space
- Removable base tray
- Sturdy latch lock
Specifications
- 38 x 13 x 24 inches enclosure size
- Made of 100% solid cedar wood
Pros
- Spacious
- Rustic-style
- Two-room design give privacy and protection
- Removable base goes out smoothly
- Easy-clean
Cons
- Can be hard to assemble
- Removable bottom wobbles to one side
If you’re looking for something that gives more than a reptile enclosure, the Zilla Tropical Reptile Vertical Starter Kit is just the thing you’re looking for. Aside from the durable glass terrarium, you also get the essentials to keep your reptile pet comfortable and safe in its space. The Zilla Tropical Reptile Starter Kit is one of the best all-in-one products you can get on Amazon that doesn’t sacrifice quality over convenience.
Key Features
- Powder-coated mesh
- Five-inch waterproof bottom
- Latch and safety lock
- Thermometer and Hygrometer
- Coconut husk substrate
Specifications
- 16 x 16 x 22 inches enclosure size
- 16.75-gallon glass
- Rock-like foam background
Pros
- Includes many necessary accessories for reptile enclosures
- Sturdy material
- Powder-coated mesh, which can prevent rust in the long run
Cons
- The Halogen Dome light tends to overheat the terrarium.
The FSRM Small Glass Terrarium for Reptiles is a herpetologists’ slash minimalists’ dream reptile enclosure. Thanks to its neat wood-like trim edges, it can suit your minimalist bedroom aesthetic which can spark joy even from Marie Kondo. This terrarium will give you a full view of your reptile roommate and keep you from missing each other.
Key Features
- Sliding metal mesh lid
- Wood accented frame
Specifications
- 20 x 12 x 10 inches enclosure size
- Made of polyresin glass
Pros
- Delivered as is, no need for further assembly
- Waterproof and leakproof
- Easy-feed and easy-clean with the sliding mesh screen on top
- Mesh lid is corrosion and rustproof
Cons
- The enclosure is pre-assembled when packaged, which makes it susceptible to cracks and breakage during delivery.
Despite its name, Friday Discount Turtle Habitat is not just for turtles. You can use this spacious reptile enclosure if you want to give your reptile pet more room to play. This terrarium can be used indoors and outdoors and can instantly give your yard or room that extra oomph, thanks to its chic gray exterior.
Key Features
- Two-room design that separates the basking area from the sleeping area
- A removable plastic base tray
Specifications
- Overall dimension 38’’ (L) x 24’’ (W) x 11.2’’ (H), entrance: 6.2’’ (W) x 6.6’’ (H), private room space: 24’’ (L) x 12.2’’ (W) x 11.2’’ (H)
- Made of Fir wood and durable acrylic material
Pros
- The basking area has transparent walls for easy viewing of your pet.
- The plastic base tray is also weatherproof and can be easily cleaned.
- The two-room design can give your reptile privacy and proper shelter on cold nights.
- It’s easy to assemble.
Cons
- The acrylic plexiglass can be easily scratched.
- You may need to give the reptile enclosure time to air out before keeping your pet inside due to a chemical smell.
Are you looking for something that looks cool and equally functional? Well, the Hamiledyi Reptile Tank is just perfect. With this reptile enclosure, you no longer have to worry about feeding trays or making a pool for your reptile as they all come integrated into it. All you need to do is “add to cart” and your little guy will be a happy reptile.
Key Features
- Unique two-room design
- A double feeding trough built-in
- Non-slip ramp
Specifications
- 18.5 x 11.1 x 9.8 inches
- Made of high-quality acrylic
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Can double as an aquarium because the enclosure is waterproof
- Acrylic it is made up of is clearer than glass
- Comes with an unpluggable drain for easy cleaning
Cons
- The design is only suitable for smaller reptiles.
Things To Consider For A DIY Reptile Enclosure
Let’s face it — we are called a DIY generation for a reason. We just love tinkering stuff on our own! Even after buying a reptile enclosure, there is still a lot to do to make your little reptile pet used to the domesticated life. So, grab your DIY tools as here are some things you need to know when creating a more personalized enclosure for your creepy crawler.
Consider Your Reptile
There are different types of reptiles and one enclosure size doesn’t fit all. Examine your pet before starting any project. Some factors you need to consider are how big it will get and what kind of environment it is used to. Knowing your reptile’s basic biology is what will make or break a successful terrarium.
Read also: 13 Unbelievable Reptile Carpet for 2024
Terrarium Space
Once you learn about your reptile’s background, you’ll have to note how much space they actually need for it to roam freely. Though they are technically in an enclosure, you still need to make the environment wide and breathable so your reptile will feel less trapped. If you’re caring for a tiny lizard, turtle, or gecko, they need a terrarium of at least 10 gallons.
Enclosure Lighting
A reptile enclosure requires proper lighting that can provide UV light because reptiles typically spend hours and hours in the sun. No matter how cute the clock you got them for their tank, reptiles still rely on light to dictate their circadian rhythm. The night and day cycle for reptiles is vital to their overall health, or else they will experience additional stress.
As enclosures are usually inside homes, getting natural sunlight can be difficult. So, make sure to get a lamp with both UVB and UVA bulbs to keep your pets healthy.
Heating Elements
Heat plays a significant role in a reptile’s life. Ectothermic (cold-blooded) creatures depend on external factors to regulate their body temperatures. That’s why it’s important that you also incorporate heating elements inside a reptile enclosure. You can opt for an overhead heating component to mimic the sun shining on your reptile pet.
Be careful of the heating temperature because a reptile enclosure is still a limited space, and it can overheat. You don’t want your pets to be burned accidentally, so you must keep a thermometer in the terrarium. Monitoring your reptile’s environment temps is one of the things you have to do religiously as a good reptile parent.
Terrarium Water Supply
Just like caring for any pet, having an adequate supply of water inside your pet’s reptile enclosure is a must. So, putting a tiny basin or a small pool for your reptile can be a great refresher for them already. It can also double as a toy and water supply.
Read also: 8 Best Reptile Humidifier for 2024
Humidity Range
One of the things you have to monitor regularly in a reptile enclosure is the humidity. Getting a hygrometer gauge can help make sure the humidity inside your reptile’s tiny jungle is just right for them.
Substrate
Laying substrate or bedding in your reptile enclosure is essential too. The best substrates you can get for your pet are reptile soil, coconut husks, moss, and reptile bark. Getting the correct substrate still depends on what kind of reptile you have. If it thrives in a desert terrarium, you would need a reptile bedding carpet and sand.
Try to stay away from pine and cedar shavings because they have oils that tend to irritate the skin of some reptiles.
Decor
Having all the basics for your reptile enclosure: the thermometer, hygrometer, the terrarium itself, lighting and heating lamps, and of course — your reptile doesn’t mean it’s complete. You still need decor!
Make your reptile feel more at home by decorating his tank with branches, rocks, a little cave, or a tiny cottage that can be his room. You can put terrarium plants as well, to make it look like he’s just in the Amazon chilling with a view of your home office furniture. The decor will provide the finishing touches your reptile’s home will need. Don’t be afraid of overdoing it; this is where the more the better applies because what’s more overwhelming than a rainforest?
DIY Reptile Enclosure vs Store Bought Terrarium
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Enclosure Versatility
There is no doubt you’ll get more versatility in your reptile enclosure if you make your own as opposed to buying one that’s already made.
A DIY terrarium can give you more control over what materials you want to use on your reptile’s tank. You also get to dictate how much space and how many additional features you can put in the enclosure.
A store-bought reptile tank does come in different sizes and can still accommodate most reptile pets. However, if we’re talking about total customizability, the DIY way is the way to go.
Eco-friendliness
Of course, you’d want your reptile tank to be as eco-friendly as possible. There’s nothing more ironic than trying to mimic nature and end up contributing to its destruction. So, having a reptile enclosure that is also eco-friendly goes beyond just giving your pet a nice place.
A DIY enclosure takes the cake on this one. It’s definitely the more eco-friendly option than buying a mass-produced tank. You can refurbish your old drawers, mirrors, glasses, closets, and so much more. This doesn’t only reduce waste but resurrects them into something that can be part of nature again. It’s the circle of life!
Cost
The cost of a reptile enclosure is definitely one of the major factors to consider in buying one. In this category, both DIY and store-bought tanks make the cut.
The nine reptile enclosures in our list have a variety of prices that range from less than $100 to $300. If you’re interested in buying the most durable and spacious tanks without the hassle, Amazon is just one click away.
On the other hand, a DIY reptile enclosure can go both ways. You can either spend less on upcycling old furniture or spend more because of buying the individual materials for a proper terrarium. This is the dilemma regarding DIY projects. So, if you’re going the DIY route, be mindful of the possible cost and energy you need to complete your reptile enclosure.
Final Word
As we battle through the pandemic clad in our sweatpants and bound in our houses, we can’t help but relate to our pets. The pets who, all their lives, have been kept inside terrariums, aquariums, and cages. Now that you know what it’s like to be trapped inside a limited space, you also know that a proper reptile enclosure makes all the difference. We hope the great selection of enclosures from Amazon above helps you in making a safe and healthy environment for your pet.
If there’s anything good the pandemic gave us, it’s the extra time with our animal best friends. So, make the most of it! The next time you buy something for living room storage, get something for your pet’s reptile enclosure living space too.
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