After Week-1 Checklist — Hermit Crabs

Week one is done. Now it’s about keeping conditions stable, supporting molting, and settling into a simple care rhythm.

1) Lock in a simple routine

• Do a quick daily check: temperature, humidity, and crab activity
• Keep feeding consistent (small amounts; remove anything that spoils)
• Refresh water dishes as needed (fresh + saltwater)

2) Stabilize the habitat (consistency matters)

• Avoid big changes to temperature/humidity
• Keep the tank in a stable location (no direct sun, no drafts)
• Don’t “redecorate” constantly—let them feel secure

3) Support molting (don’t disturb)

• Make sure substrate stays deep and diggable
• If a crab buries itself, avoid digging it up
• Keep the environment steady and give privacy

4) Upgrade only where it helps

• Add improvements that reduce stress and encourage natural behavior:
• More hiding spots
• More climbing options
• Extra shells in varied sizes

5) Create a cleaning + maintenance rhythm

• Spot-clean as needed (remove waste/old food)
• Keep water dishes clean
• Do deeper cleaning only when necessary (too much disruption can stress them)

6) Track what matters

• Eating patterns
• Activity level (especially at night)
• Shell changes and interest in shells
• Any strong odors, mold, or sudden environmental swings

7) Know when to get help

• If a crab seems lethargic for an extended period, isn’t eating, or you notice unusual odor or visible issues, seek guidance quickly.

Pro tip

After week one, your biggest win is stability. Hermit crabs do best when their environment stays consistent and low-stress.