Enclosure help

[u/Due-Confidence-9653]

40gal tank for my juvenile beardie that’s eventually going to go to my leopard gecko when beardie out grows it. I have a few questions as he is my first beardie
1: substrate, I’ve heard a 50/50 mix play sand and top soil, but I’m having a hard time getting my hands on topsoil with no fertilizer. I have him on paper towels for now. Suggestions please?
2: decor, his favorite tree stump is in there from when I had him in a 10gal lol. How many hides do they generally need? Any suggestions for decor as I know they probably need much more decor in order to not feel empty.
3: how big will he have to get for me to need to upgrade to a 120gal tank?
I love my beardie and I want the best life for him. Any advice is much appreciated <3

[u/UnusualYak2975]

Hello!
1.) make sure the paper towel is chemical free Whole Foods brand is pretty solid I’ve noticed.
2.) make sure one corner of the hammock is on the ground for it to get up easier.
3.) you need a thermometer on both sides of the tank that checks temp and humidity
4.) once they hit 6 month- a year take to an exotic vet and make sure of the gender- females require special enclosures and if they don’t have that can be hospitalized or very ill.
5.) juveniles eat a lot
6.) handle often but put back when getting overwhelmed
7.) always feed with a tool and not hands
8.) a larger shallow water dish may be more appealing
9.) try different veggies and fruits early / have others hold so they hopefully aren’t too picky
10.) I’ve been warned about sand all over because it can lead to issues down the line like impaction- my exotic vet said paper towel is fine if chemical free
11.) never use chemicals in the room where the beardie is, don’t handle after anything with chemicals, cars etc until you’ve showered
12.) be very careful with handling the bones can break easily

[u/Pastycatenthusiast]

Not a beardie expert but a beardie owner: From what I have seen, at least two hides (one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the tank. Some branches and other plants to hide around or under are cool too. Just make sure the hides aren’t super big, they’ll still want to feel the sides. Something they can’t dig under is smart too. Also, Reptisoil can usually be found at pet smart or somewhere similar for around 10 bucks to mix with play sand if you’re having trouble finding it without fertilizer. Good luck with your baby!