Who Gives A Fish Forums

I'm setting up a new 5-gallon tank for my betta and wanna keep costs low. What's the best way to decorate without spending a ton? I've got some basic gravel and a small sponge filter, but it looks kinda bare.

Hit up your local dollar store for some cheap decor. Just avoid anything sharp or with small holes. I got a few smooth rocks and fake plants there for like $5 total. Just rinse 'em real good before adding.

Yep, dollar stores are clutch. Also, check out thrift stores for small ceramic cups or mugs. They make great hides if you sand down any rough edges. My betta loves chillin' in his coffee mug.

If you're near any natural water sources, you can collect driftwood or rocks. Just boil 'em for 20 minutes to sterilize. I've used river rocks and spider wood in my tanks for years. Looks way more natural than store-bought stuff.

Purrer wrote: ↑Sun Jun 01, 2025 10:47 am Yep, dollar stores are clutch. Also, check out thrift stores for small ceramic cups or mugs. They make great hides if you sand down any rough edges. My betta loves chillin' in his coffee mug.

That's a solid idea. I've also used PVC pipes cut to size and covered with moss. Super cheap and my fish loves weaving through 'em.

For plants, go with java fern or anubias. They're hardy, don't need fancy substrate, and you can tie 'em to rocks or driftwood. I got mine from a local hobbyist for like $2 per plant. Way cheaper than pet stores.

If you're crafty, you can make your own background with foam board and silicone. Just seal it with aquarium-safe paint. My DIY background cost maybe $10 and looks way better than the $30 ones at the store.

Avoid painted decor from big-box stores. The paint can flake off and mess with your water quality. Stick to natural materials or stuff labeled aquarium-safe. I learned that the hard way with a cheap ornament that started peeling after a month.

florin wrote: ↑Sun Jun 01, 2025 12:20 pm If you're near any natural water sources, you can collect driftwood or rocks. Just boil 'em for 20 minutes to sterilize. I've used river rocks and spider wood in my tanks for years. Looks way more natural than store-bought stuff.

Just make sure the rocks don't alter your pH. Limestone, for example, can raise it. A quick vinegar test will tell you if they're safe.

I've had good luck with terracotta pots. You can find 'em at garden centers for a few bucks. Just plug the hole with silicone or a rubber stopper. My betta loves hiding in his little pot cave.