PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games Arts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and GardenRelationship Quizzes Cars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and StyleSports and Fitness Computers and ElectronicsHealthPets and AnimalsTravel Education & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and ReligionWork World Family LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationshipsYouth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Pets and Animals
Reptiles
Lizards
Bearded Dragons
How to Give a Bearded Dragon a Bath Download Article Co-authored by Alisa Rassin
Last Updated: August 8, 2025 Fact Checked
Download Article
Filling the Tub
|
Bathing Your Dragon
|
Drying and Warming
|
Video
|
Expert Interview
|
Q&A
|
Tips
|Show more|Show less X
This article was co-authored by Alisa Rassin. Alias Rassin is an Exotics Veterinarian and the Owner of The Exotic Animal Hospital of Pennsylvania in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in treating reptiles, birds, and small mammals. She holds a Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris from The University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences from Penn State University. She was also certified by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. There are 8 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 194,028 times.
Bearded dragons are reptiles that live in the deserts, woodlands, and shrub lands of Australia, and even though some bearded dragon species come from arid natural habitats, many of them do enjoy time in the water. Bath time for bearded dragons can help them with shedding, provide them with exercise, and can help promote bowel movements. Although most bearded dragons do enjoy swimming, you must be sure to monitor them at all times to prevent injury or drowning. Never leave your bearded dragon unsupervised in the water, especially if the bath is outside.
Bathing a Bearded Dragon: Quick Steps
Fill a container with just enough lukewarm water to reach your dragon's shoulder joints.
Place a rock in the container for your bearded dragon to climb onto if it gets tired.
Place your bearded dragon in the bath and carefully pour water over its back and tail.
Let your dragon soak for 10-30 minutes, monitoring it carefully.
Pat your dragon dry with a towel and place it under its basking light to warm up.
Steps
Part 1 Part 1 of 3:
Filling the Tub
Download Article
1 Choose your bath spot. Don’t use a sink or bathtub that’s shared with people, because bearded dragons will often defecate in the bath, and they can carry salmonella. Instead, try a container such as a kiddie pool or plastic bin.
For a baby or juvenile bearded dragon, consider using a smaller container.[1]XResearch source
2 Fill the bath with water. Use lukewarm water that’s between 85 and 100 F (29.4 and 37.7 C).[2]X Expert Source Alisa RassinExotics VeterinarianExpert Interview [3]XResearch source Water that’s too hot could burn your dragon, but because he is cold blooded and relies on his surroundings for warmth, a bath that’s too cold could also cause your dragon’s body to shut down.[4]XResearch source
Fill the tub with one to three inches of water. Make sure the water is no deeper than his shoulder joints (where the limbs meet the body) to prevent drowning.
For babies and juveniles, use only one-half to one inch of water.
Advertisement
3 Avoid cleaning agents. Bath time for a bearded dragon is more like a swim, and you shouldn’t try to use any soaps or detergents to clean your dragon. You don’t need to use anything really the water in the tub often cleans the lizard itself.[5]XResearch source It is unnecessary, and soap could damage his skin. Also, bearded dragons will often drink when they are bathing, and you don’t want him drinking soap.
Never put your bearded dragon into chlorinated water.
4 Provide something to climb onto. Bearded dragons aren’t the strongest of swimmers and can tire easily. It’s a good idea to put a rock (or something else) in the tub in case he gets tired and wants to get out of the water.
Advertisement Part 2 Part 2 of 3:
Bathing Your Dragon
Download Article
1 Place your dragon in the water. When the tub is ready and the climbing rock in place, gently put your dragon into the bath. Let him acclimatize to the water. When in the water, bearded dragons may paddle and splash around.
In the case that your bearded dragon defecates in the water, remove the feces immediately to avoid a mess. [6]XResearch source
Sometimes bearded dragons will inhale air to puff themselves up so they can float around. They’ll also close their eyes to prevent water from entering. Just be sure to monitor your dragon closely if he’s floating around like this, and don’t let his head go under the water.[7]XResearch source
2 Bathe your dragon. Use a cup to pour bath water over his back and tail, but avoid his head and mouth (you don’t want him aspirating water). Use your hand to splash water under his belly.[8]XResearch source
3 Remove old skin after shedding is complete. If there is any skin left a couple weeks after shedding, use a soft toothbrush or wash cloth to help remove the skin in the bath after he’s been soaking for a while.
Don’t brush at old skin if your dragon is currently shedding because you could damage the new skin underneath. [9]XResearch source
4 Let your dragon swim for 10 to 30 minutes. This is a good amount of time to let him soak and help moisturize his skin, which is especially important when he’s shedding.[10]X Expert Source Alisa RassinExotics VeterinarianExpert Interview
If the water starts to get too cold, take some out and add more warm water. Use a thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature.[11]XResearch source
Get your dragon out of the water immediately if he starts struggling or getting tired.[12]XResearch source
Advertisement Part 3 Part 3 of 3:
Drying and Warming
Download Article
1 Pat your dragon dry. Remove your dragon from the water and place him on a soft, clean towel. Gently pat him dry. It’s a good idea to keep a special towel just for your dragon.
2 Warm your dragon. Once he’s dry, get him under his basking light.[13]XResearch source His temperature may have dropped in the bath or during drying, so it’s important that he warm himself.
3 Clean the container. Bathing helps remove old skin and scales, helps with shedding, and can remove bacteria from your dragon’s skin and feet,[14]XResearch source so it’s extremely important to wash your dragon’s tub out after every bath, especially if he defecated.
Wash the tub with a good strong soap and rinse it out well after the bath. Don’t forget to wash any towels or cloths that you used to clean and dry your dragon.
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question What if my dragon doesn't want a bath? Community Answer It's recommended that you bathe your dragon every four to eight days, but if you'd rather not, a bath should only be necessary around the time it starts shedding. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 14 Helpful 146
Question I take a shower when the water is all the way hot and I'm scared it will be too hot. What should I do? Community Answer That would be too hot; you'll have to either take a cooler shower or exclude your beardie from your shower. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 28 Helpful 80
Question How can I check the temperature of the water without a thermometer? Community Answer Dip your elbow into the water. If the water is too hot or cold for your skin, then it's too hot or cold for your dragon. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 14 Helpful 150
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Bathe your dragon often. Some people choose to bathe their dragon daily, but once a week or every two weeks should be sufficient.[15]XResearch sourceThanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toTeach a Bearded Dragon to Drink from a Water BowlHow toBuild Love With Your Bearded DragonHow toBathe a TurtleHow toBathe a Leopard GeckoHow toBathe a HedgehogHow toBathe a TortoiseHow toBathe a Russian TortoiseHow toGive Your Budgie a BathHow toGive Your Hermit Crab a BathHow toCare for Bearded DragonsHow toHold a Bearded DragonHow toBathe Your Pet RatHow toClean a BirdHow toBathe a Ferret Advertisement
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about caring for a bearded dragon, check out our in-depth interview with Alisa Rassin.
Co-authored by: Alisa Rassin Exotics Veterinarian This article was co-authored by Alisa Rassin. Alias Rassin is an Exotics Veterinarian and the Owner of The Exotic Animal Hospital of Pennsylvania in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in treating reptiles, birds, and small mammals. She holds a Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris from The University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences from Penn State University. She was also certified by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. This article has been viewed 194,028 times. 4 votes - 95% Co-authors: 13Updated: August 8, 2025 Views: 194,028 Categories: Bearded DragonsArticle SummaryX
If you want to give your bearded dragon a bath, grab a plastic bin or kiddie pool, because bearded dragons often defecate while bathing. Then, fill the container with lukewarm water and put a rock or something else in the water so the dragon has something to climb on if it gets tired. To bathe the dragon, pour water over its back and tail with a cup, and use your hand to splash water under its belly. If your dragon is shedding, let it swim for 10-30 minutes to moisturize its skin. Finally, take the dragon out and pat it dry with a towel. For tips on how to warm your dragon up and how to clean the container, keep reading!Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Spanish German French Dutch Indonesian
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 194,028 times.
Reader Success Stories
Anonymous
Sep 19, 2017
"Here's my story. Picture my bearded dragon: dirty; sad; depressed. All it really needed was to exfoliate it's outer-self, but I didn't know how to clean it and make it happy again. Little did I know that a simple click on wikiHow could change my life forever. Thank you, from the bottom of little Rango's heart."..." more Rated this article:
More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Alisa Rassin Exotics Veterinarian Co-authors: 13Updated: August 8, 2025 Views: 194,02895% of readers found this article helpful. 4 votes - 95% Click a star to add your vote
Anonymous
Sep 19, 2017
"Here's my story. Picture my bearded dragon: dirty; sad; depressed. All it really needed was to exfoliate it's outer-self, but I didn't know how to clean it and make it happy again. Little did I know that a simple click on wikiHow could change my life forever. Thank you, from the bottom of little Rango's heart."..." more Rated this article:
Los Perdadorez
Nov 15, 2016
"I just got a bearded dragon from a friend's son, who was neglecting it. My daughter and I decided to take her off their hands. We got the terrarium all cleaned up, the right lighting in, and bathed."..." more
David Cameron
Nov 9, 2016
"Followed it to the letter, and works a treat. Balthazar now enjoys bath time. Tip with rock works a treat. Put a few in a gradient to let him choose where he wants to be. "..." more
Jo Hurst
Nov 29, 2016
"Everything helped, especially lighting. I do wish there was more information on food, maybe a list of good quality foods for bearded dragons. Thank you."..." more
Alexis Stephens
Jul 12, 2017
"Everything helped but they tend to swim 10-15 minuets and they love soaking in water, thanks so much!" Rated this article: Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
Quizzes & Games
What Lizard Am I QuizTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizDo I Smell Bad QuizTake QuizWhat’s My Perfect Hair Care Routine?Take QuizHow Disgusting Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Skin Type Do I Have QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toTeach a Bearded Dragon to Drink from a Water BowlHow toBuild Love With Your Bearded DragonHow toBathe a TurtleHow toBathe a Leopard Gecko
Trending Articles
Accurate IQ Checker Quiz: How Smart Am I?Am I Autistic QuizHow Sexual Am I QuizDiscover the Secret Meaning of Your First NameWhat's My Personality Based on My Song Choices QuizHow toPractice Kissing
Watch Articles
Amazing Super Bowl Party Ideas Guests Will Cheer ForHow toDevelop Listening SkillsHow toNot Lose Your GirlfriendHow to Draw an OwlHow toTreat AllergiesHow toIntroduce Friends to Other Friends
Trending Articles
5 Different Types of Butts: Find Your ShapeWhat Would My Nickname Be QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizCan We Guess If You're Single or Taken?How toBe PrettyKissing Tips: The wikiHow Guide to the Perfect Kiss
Quizzes & Games
What Animal Am I QuizTake QuizWhat Mythical Creature Am I QuizTake QuizGuess the Animal Photo QuizTake QuizWhat Pet Should I Get QuizTake QuizWhat Sea Creature Am I QuizTake QuizDaily Water Intake Calculator
Categories
Pets and Animals
Reptiles
Lizards
Bearded Dragons
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Co-authored by Alisa Rassin 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Alisa Rassin Exotics Veterinarian This article was co-authored by Alisa Rassin. Alias Rassin is an Exotics Veterinarian and the Owner of The Exotic Animal Hospital of Pennsylvania in Lansdowne, Pennsylvania. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in treating reptiles, birds, and small mammals. She holds a Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris from The University of Pennsylvania and a BS in Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences from Penn State University. She was also certified by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. This article has been viewed 194,028 times. 4 votes - 95% Co-authors: 13 Updated: August 8, 2025 Views: 194,028 Categories: Bearded Dragons Article SummaryX
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
648 
1 Choose your bath spot. Don’t use a sink or bathtub that’s shared with people, because bearded dragons will often defecate in the bath, and they can carry salmonella. Instead, try a container such as a kiddie pool or plastic bin. 
2 Fill the bath with water. Use lukewarm water that’s between 85 and 100 F (29.4 and 37.7 C).[2] [3] Water that’s too hot could burn your dragon, but because he is cold blooded and relies on his surroundings for warmth, a bath that’s too cold could also cause your dragon’s body to shut down.[4] 
3 Avoid cleaning agents. Bath time for a bearded dragon is more like a swim, and you shouldn’t try to use any soaps or detergents to clean your dragon. You don’t need to use anything really the water in the tub often cleans the lizard itself.[5] It is unnecessary, and soap could damage his skin. Also, bearded dragons will often drink when they are bathing, and you don’t want him drinking soap. 
4 Provide something to climb onto. Bearded dragons aren’t the strongest of swimmers and can tire easily. It’s a good idea to put a rock (or something else) in the tub in case he gets tired and wants to get out of the water. Advertisement 
1 Place your dragon in the water. When the tub is ready and the climbing rock in place, gently put your dragon into the bath. Let him acclimatize to the water. When in the water, bearded dragons may paddle and splash around. 
2 Bathe your dragon. Use a cup to pour bath water over his back and tail, but avoid his head and mouth (you don’t want him aspirating water). Use your hand to splash water under his belly.[8] 
3 Remove old skin after shedding is complete. If there is any skin left a couple weeks after shedding, use a soft toothbrush or wash cloth to help remove the skin in the bath after he’s been soaking for a while. 
4 Let your dragon swim for 10 to 30 minutes. This is a good amount of time to let him soak and help moisturize his skin, which is especially important when he’s shedding.[10] 
1 Pat your dragon dry. Remove your dragon from the water and place him on a soft, clean towel. Gently pat him dry. It’s a good idea to keep a special towel just for your dragon. 
2 Warm your dragon. Once he’s dry, get him under his basking light.[13] His temperature may have dropped in the bath or during drying, so it’s important that he warm himself. 
3 Clean the container. Bathing helps remove old skin and scales, helps with shedding, and can remove bacteria from your dragon’s skin and feet,[14] so it’s extremely important to wash your dragon’s tub out after every bath, especially if he defecated. 
Community Answer It's recommended that you bathe your dragon every four to eight days, but if you'd rather not, a bath should only be necessary around the time it starts shedding. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 14 Helpful 146 
Community Answer That would be too hot; you'll have to either take a cooler shower or exclude your beardie from your shower. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 28 Helpful 80 
Community Answer Dip your elbow into the water. If the water is too hot or cold for your skin, then it's too hot or cold for your dragon. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 14 Helpful 150 