Foggting FAQ for Chameleon Keepers

Since publishing my fog drinking article and introducing fogging techniques back in 2020, the reptile-keeping community has seen a remarkable shift. Thousands of dedicated chameleon keepers have embraced foggers as a vital part of their husbandry routines, improving hydration and mimicking natural conditions. As fogging becomes more widespread, it's only natural that thoughtful questions arise — from optimal temperatures to water types and hose setups. Here are some of the most common and insightful ones, along with practical answers based on experience and observation.

Fogging FAQ for Reptile Keepers

Q1: What temperatures are best for night fogging?

Ideally, night fogging should occur when temperatures drop below 65°F (18°C) — the lower, the better. Cooler air allows fog to settle and behave more naturally, mimicking early morning mist. If your room stays warmer due to heating, cracking a window slightly can help bring temps down to the low 60s or even 50s, making fogging more effective and safer.

Q2: What kind of water is best for fogging? Does temperature matter?

Water temperature: While warmer water can produce denser fog, it's not recommended. Room temperature water is generally ideal. Cooler water creates lighter fog and may help slightly lower enclosure temps due to evaporative cooling.

Water type: You can technically fog with any water — even tap or mineral — but:• Tap/mineral water may leave white residue or stains on plants, glass, and equipment. Distilled, RO (reverse osmosis), or demineralized water is preferred. It mimics natural fog (which is essentially condensed vapor with minimal particulates) and minimizes buildup or staining.

Q3: Should I modify the hose to make fog gentler?

Most reptile foggers use a small fan to push fog through the hose. The fog isn't forceful — it gently flows out and settles downward due to its density. Because fog is denser than dry air, it naturally sinks and begins to fill the enclosure from the bottom up. If ventilation isn't too intense or the air is not too dry and hot to cause its immediate intense evaporation, the fog will gradually saturate the space bottom up, creating a misty environment that mimics nighttime jungle conditions.

Placement tips:

• Position the hose outlet at the top of the enclosure, allowing fog to cascade naturally.

• Avoid placing the fogger directly on the enclosure — vibrations from the piezoelectric element can theoretically disturb sensitive animals like chameleons. Instead, place it nearby but on a separate surface.

• No additional attachments are typically needed unless you're customizing airflow or diffusion.