How to Clean a Ball Python Tank

Ball pythons are a snake species native to Africa, and they're often bred for captivity. Ball python tanks require frequent cleaning and maintenance to ensure a safe, clean environment for your snake. Bacteria, parasites and other organisms thrive in a dirty tank, and they can be harmful to your snake's health. Clean your ball python's tank thoroughly at least two or three times a year, and change the bedding, also called the substrate, when it becomes soiled to keep the tank in good condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubber or latex gloves
  • 2 buckets
  • Dish detergent
  • Sponges or cloths
  • Bleach
  • Paper towels or towels
  • Clean bedding
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the snake from the tank and carefully place it into a safe enclosure before cleaning the tank.

    • 2

      Remove any items from inside the tank, including the bedding, water and any other items. Throw away any soiled items that can't be washed. Wear gloves while handling the items and cleaning the tank.

    • 3

      Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of hot water and add 2 or 3 tsp. of dish detergent.

    • 4

      Wash the items from inside the tank using a sponge or cloth and the soapy water.

    • 5

      Dip a cloth or sponge into the bucket, and scrub the outside and inside of the tank thoroughly to remove all traces of soil or debris.

    • 6

      Fill a clean bucket with water, and use a sponge or cloth to rinse the tank and items. Rinse the sponge or cloth in the bucket as needed.

    • 7

      Empty the bucket and rinse it out. Fill it with 1 gallon of warm water and add 1/2 cup of bleach.

    • 8

      Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the bleach solution, and wring it out. Wipe the inside and outside of the tank with the cloth or sponge. Rinse the cloth or sponge in the bucket, and wipe the items with the bleach solution. Allow the bleach to sit for 10 to 20 minutes to sanitize.

    • 9

      Empty the bucket, and rinse it out with water. Fill it with clean water.

    • 10

      Rinse the tank and items with a clean sponge or cloth dipped into the water. Keep rinsing until all traces of bleach residue are gone.

    • 11

      Dry the tank and items with towels or paper towels.

    • 12

      Set clean bedding into the tank, and replace the items and water. Carefully remove the snake from the enclosure and place it into the tank.