How to Build Small Humidifiers for Terrariums

A terrarium is a general name given to a reptile cage or enclosure. Tropical reptiles, such as southern snakes, amphibians and water dragons, often require a certain amount of humidity in their living environments. If you don̵7;t mind spending the money on buying a humidifier, one can be purchased at most pet stores for under $50 (price as of publication date). But if you want to save a little cash, try building your own small humidifier for your terrarium. The supplies shouldn̵7;t cost you more than $20 and the project is straightforward.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic container and lid
  • Power tool
  • 1/4-inch drill
  • 3-foot 1/4-inch diameter plastic tube
  • 4-foot 1/4-inch diameter plastic tube
  • Air stone
  • Air pump
  • Silicone glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drill a hole in the lid of the container using the power tool and a 1/4-inch drill bit. Drill a second 1/4-inch hole in the lid beside the first.

    • 2

      Attach the 3-foot plastic tube to the air stone. Place the air stone inside the container. Feed the remainder of the tube through one of the holes in the lid of the container.

    • 3

      Feed the 4-foot plastic tube through the other hole in the lid of the container. Add water to the container until it is approximately two-thirds full of water.

    • 4

      Place the lid on the container. Ensure the container is secured tight and snug.

    • 5

      Attach the opposite end of the 3-foot tube to the outlet hole of the air pump. Ensure that the 3-foot tube connects the air stone and the air pump through the lid of the container.

    • 6

      Situate the 4-foot tube so that it does not touch the water in the container. Instead, it should hang in the air between the surface of the water and the lid. Feed the opposite end of the 4-foot tube into the snake enclosure.

    • 7

      Check the entire length of the 4-foot plastic tube to make sure there are no kinks along the tube. Air and vapor should be able to flow along the tube freely.

    • 8

      Apply silicone glue to the areas where the plastic tubes enter the lid of the container. Ensure the glue completely seals the holes in the lid of the container. Allow the glue to dry.

    • 9

      Turn on the air pump. Look at the container of water. Make sure the water is bubbling. If not, adjust the water tubes. Add water weekly as the water level drops.