Keeping crickets is fairly easy, as long as you follow some basic rules. The key to a healthy cricket and therefore healthy reptile is managing a healthy and bacteria free environment.
Container
Crickets can be kept in containers manufactured specifically for this purpose, or you can use a Rubbermaid-type tub with lid. We have found that the best substrate to use is none! Corn meal, pellets and corn bedding can harbor bacteria and mold. The crickets will not show signs of sickness from this, but can spread bacteria to your animal. Instead, place paper towel rolls or clean egg cartons in the box for hiding spaces.
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Cleaning
Take your paper towel rolls and egg cartons out, shaking the crickets out to the bottom. The crickets will probably start to crawl up the sides, which will make it easy for you to clean the bottom. Sweep the sheds and droppings using a small nylon broom and dustpan. Then wipe with a damp paper towel, and finally, a dry one. Place paper towel rolls and egg cartons back in the container, and wipe down the sides of the container once the crickets move to the bottom.
Food
Clean food and water are they key to keeping your crickets healthy and bacteria-free. Purchase a compressed sponge from your pet store or online for their water. You must make sure your crickets have fresh, clean water every day. First rinse the sponge with hot water, then soak in cool water. If there is a lot of chlorine in your water, use bottled water for your crickets and animals. To ensure cleanliness, boil the sponges weekly.
Use a premium cricket gutload to feed your crickets. If you use fresh vegetables as well, do not use leftover food from your other animals. Again, this can spread bacteria. Use freshly washed, high quality vegetables and take them out after 2 hours with the crickets to prevent spoilage.
At least 24 hours before you are going to feed the animals crickets, be sure your sponges are moist and supply a good amount of gutload. The moist sponges help to hydrate your crickets, which will in turn hydrate your animals.
Avoid using gel bites or water gels. These can both dry out and harbor harmful bacteria. Additionally, the gel can stick to a cricket's leg, be carried to your animal and expand inside your animal.
