Why do fish and shrimp need hides?

Hides give fish and invertebrates a place to retreat when stressed, rest between feeding, and establish territories. They mimic natural environments, making your aquarium inhabitants feel safe and secure.

Are 3D-printed aquarium hides safe?

Yes — when printed using aquarium-safe materials like PETG, hides are non-toxic and safe for long-term underwater use. Our designs are made to be smooth and snag-free to protect delicate fins and antennae.

How big are the entry holes?

Each hide in this set features 2.5 cm (1 inch) entry holes, ideal for shrimp, guppies, corydoras, and even small plecos. These openings are large enough for easy access while still feeling safe and enclosed.

Will these hides work for plecos and bottom dwellers?

Absolutely. Plecos, corydoras, loaches, and other bottom-dwelling species love having multiple sheltered areas. The 3-piece set allows you to spread hides across the tank to reduce competition for space.

Do the hides blend into aquascapes?

Our coral-inspired texture and neutral tones make them perfect for both natural and stylised tank layouts. They can be placed among plants, rocks, or driftwood without looking artificial.

What are aquarium hides used for?

Aquarium hides provide shelter and a safe retreat for fish, shrimp, and other tank inhabitants. They reduce stress, encourage natural behaviours, and create a more balanced tank environment.

Why choose a 3D-printed fish shelter?

3D-printed shelters are lightweight, durable, and can be made in unique shapes and textures not possible with traditional resin decor. Our designs are made using aquarium-safe PETG material.

What size fish is this large shelter suitable for?

Our large coral shelter measures approximately 13 x 13 x 13 cm with 2.5 cm entry holes — perfect for small plecos, corydoras, shrimp, and medium-sized community fish.

Is this shelter safe for planted tanks?

Yes. The smooth PETG finish ensures it won’t damage plants or fish, and its coral-inspired design blends well with aquascaping layouts.

Can the large shelter be used in saltwater aquariums?

Absolutely. PETG is non-toxic and suitable for both freshwater and saltwater tanks, making this shelter a versatile choice for a wide range of aquariums.

What size cave is best for bettas?

25–30 mm entrances suit most bettas, giving them shelter while still letting them turn and swim out.

Are 3D-printed caves safe for shrimp and fish?

Yes — our caves are made from aquarium-safe PLA/PETG with no coatings or paints. Always rinse before placing them in your tank.

Can these caves be used in saltwater tanks?

Yes — the material is inert and unpainted, making them suitable for both freshwater and marine aquariums.

Where are Blubber Cove caves made?

Every piece is designed and 3D-printed in our UK family-run workshop, tested in real aquariums, and shipped quickly.

Where do you ship from?

All orders ship from Northumberland, UK. Dispatch usually takes 2–4 business days.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes — tracked international delivery is available at checkout. Shipping times vary by location.

How do I track my order?

Once your order ships, you’ll receive a tracking link by email. UK parcels are sent via 48-hour tracked service; international orders include tracking.

Do you take custom requests?

Yes — tweaks, scale changes, or new ideas are welcome. Contact us via the site and we’ll confirm what’s possible.

What materials do you use for aquarium décor?

We print in PETG or PLA depending on the design. Both are aquarium-safe plastics that won’t leach chemicals. Pieces are finished smooth to protect fins, shrimp and snails.

Are your aquarium products fish- and shrimp-safe?

Yes. All tank items are designed for fish and shrimp use with no coatings, paints or glues — just inert plastics hobbyists trust.

How do I care for aquarium décor long term?

Rinse in tank water during water changes. Avoid boiling or harsh scrubbing. With light care, the décor lasts for years without warping or releasing toxins.

Do your floating hides actually float?

Yes — each one is buoyancy-tested before shipping. Some tanks may need a gentle nudge or a suction cup to settle them in place.

Can shrimp or fry use these caves?

Yes — caves are designed with small entrances and smooth edges so shrimp, fry and nano fish can hide safely without risk.

Can I put the décor straight into my tank?

Yes — give it a quick rinse in tank water first to remove dust and help it settle naturally.

How many cards fit in your deck boxes?

Most designs hold 100+ single-sleeved Magic: The Gathering cards with room for tokens or dice. Check each listing for exact capacity.

What materials are used for deck boxes?

Durable PLA/PETG that keeps its shape over time. We craft in small batches so every hinge and latch is tested.

Can I customise a deck box?

Yes — custom requests such as scale changes, colour swaps or simple engravings can be discussed via our contact page.

Are Blubber Cove aquarium ornaments safe for fish?

Yes — all décor is printed in aquarium-safe PLA or PETG with no coatings or paints. Smooth edges protect fins, shrimp and snails.

Can these ornaments be used in betta or shrimp tanks?

Yes — entrances are sized for bettas, shrimp and small fish. They provide secure hides while blending into natural aquascapes.

Do your floating hides actually float?

They do — each floating piece is buoyancy-tested before shipping. Some tanks may need a gentle nudge to settle in place.

Where are your aquarium accessories made?

All pieces are designed and 3D-printed in our UK family-run workshop, tested in real aquariums and shipped directly from Northumberland.

The Complete Guide to Aquarium Caves: Safety, Materials, and Best Choices

August 8, 2025

At BlubberCove, we design aquarium‑safe hides that look natural and work hard. We use PETG for larger structures that need robust stability, and PLA for smaller accessories — all safe for aquariums when printed and finished correctly. Below are the most‑asked questions about caves and hides, answered simply.

Looking for safe caves for shrimp, bettas and plecos? Explore our UK-made Aquarium Caves Collection here

What are aquarium caves used for?
They give fish and invertebrates safe places to rest, hide, and breed. Caves reduce stress, mimic natural cover, and help shy species feel secure.

Are aquarium caves necessary?
Yes — most tanks benefit from at least one hide. Hiding spots lower stress, encourage natural behaviour, and can reduce illness and aggression.

What is the safest material for aquarium caves?
PETG and PLA (printed and rinsed properly) are safe for home aquariums. At BlubberCove we use PETG for bigger, load‑bearing caves and PLA for small, detail‑rich accessories.

Will PLA or PETG harm fish or shrimp?
No — not when fully cured, rinsed, and free from toxic coatings. Always avoid unknown paints or dyes; rinse decor before use.

Do shrimp need caves?
Yes — shrimp use small hides for moulting and safety. Narrow entrances protect them from curious tank mates and give them calm grazing areas.

How many caves should I have?
One hide per territorial animal, plus one extra, is a reliable rule. In mixed tanks, scatter multiple small hides to reduce competition.

How do I choose the right size cave?
Match entrance size to your species and leave room to turn inside. Small openings suit shrimp and nano fish; bigger openings suit cichlids, plecos, and axolotls.

Where should I place aquarium caves?
Near plants, rocks, or background décor — not blocking swim lanes. Gentle flow is ideal; avoid direct filter blast.

Do caves reduce aggression?
Yes — caves break line‑of‑sight and create territories. More exits and more hides mean fewer confrontations.

Do 3D‑printed caves float?
Only if they trap air or are too light. Our PETG designs and internal geometry keep caves down; you can also angle entrances upward to release bubbles.

How do I clean aquarium caves safely?
Remove, rinse in tank water, and gently brush. Avoid soap or detergents; they leave residues that can harm livestock.

Are coloured caves safe?
Yes, if pigments are non‑toxic and food‑safe. We select filaments with safety in mind and rinse items before packing.

Should I seal a 3D‑printed cave?
Not required for most freshwater tanks. In saltwater or high‑heat setups, a thin aquarium‑safe epoxy can extend life, but isn’t mandatory.

Can aquarium caves be used for reptiles or amphibians?
Yes — many designs double as reptile/amphibian hides. Provide a warm and a cool hide so animals can thermoregulate.

BlubberCove picks

• Large Aquarium Cave for Shrimp, Betta & Bottom Dwellers
– Smooth, aquarium‑safe PETG; won’t snag fins or tails.
– Two sizes for shrimp, betta, kuhli loaches, corydoras, and other bottom dwellers.

Availiable Now

• Corner Aquarium or Reptile Tunnel Cave
– Space‑saving corner fit with open tunnel design.
– Great for fish, shrimp, axolotls, and small reptiles.

Availiable Now

Quick buying checklist
Pick safe materials (PETG/PLA), match the entrance to the species, provide at least one extra hide, and place caves near cover. Variety beats one big ornament.

FAQs

Are PETG and PLA safe for aquariums?
Yes — when printed, cured, and rinsed properly. We use PETG for larger structures and PLA for small accessories; both are aquarium‑safe.

How many hiding spots should my tank have?
One per animal, plus one extra. Add more in mixed or high‑activity tanks.

Where should I put a cave?
Near plants/rockwork with a clear path in and out. Avoid high‑flow dead‑ends and main swim lanes.

Do caves help with aggression?
Yes — they break line‑of‑sight and create territories. Multiple entrances further reduce conflict.

How do I clean a cave?
Rinse in tank water and brush gently. Skip soaps and harsh chemicals.

🐚 More From BlubberCove Experts

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The Complete Guide to Aquarium Caves: Safety, Materials, and Best Choices

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