Humidity trouble, what changes to make?

[GizzWizz]

I'm new here and in desperate need of advice. The humidity is really low in my tank and I decided I'm going to completely switch it up and try something new, but I'm now sure what changes to make. I currently use aspen bedding; what would be a better substrate for holding humidity. I also use an under tank heat pad; would a heat lamp or some kind of bulb be better? I live in Las Vegas so its already really warm. Summers get up to 115 F. and winters get down to 40 F. Any tips or recommendations would be a huge help

[Crazymonkee]

A lamp will kill your humidity even more. I would switch to coconut husk (eco earth) for the substrate. I did and it has been wonderful .
What are the temps in the enclosure? I'm assuming it's a tank? You can cover 3/4 of the lid with a damp towel or foil

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[satomi325]

Coco husk or cypress mulch are amazing substrates that help retain humidity.

Having a wide large water dish over the hot spot will help promote evaporation and keep your humidity up.

You can so cover 90% of your screen top with a damp towel, plexiglass, or tapes down tin foil.

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[GizzWizz]

I've heard a lot about eco earth but a few people have said you're only supposed to mix it in with what you normally use. Is this correct? The temperatures stay mid 80's. But with humidity I'd be lucky just to keep it up to 40%

[Crazymonkee]

Do you have a hot side and cool side? No people mix it for looks, and sometimes a combo of substrate works best for some but it doesn't need to be mixed

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[Crazymonkee]

Also do you mist the tank at all?

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[GizzWizz]

Yes I have a cool side and I keep her water dish over there. I guess I should move it to the hot side? I also have a screen top, I heard putting damp towels over it helps humidity. Is this true?

[GizzWizz]

I use to mist it and it definitely helped, but the people at the reptile shop that I got her from told me to stop because they said it can cause scale rot.

[Crazymonkee]

Not unless you actually have the bedding soaking wet. Misting is perfectly fine. Yes as we stated cover the lid about 3/4 with a damp towel, tin foil, or some even use both

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[GizzWizz]

oh sorry you're right someone did already state that.. I missed it. Well thank you for all the advice I really appreciate it, I'm gonna get started right away and hopefully my girl with be much happier