Washing tortoise

[Ella4545]

My two little sulcatas are always dirty from eating , dirt or their poop. I soak them almost everyday and as much as they let me I’ll use a tooth brush to try to clean them up but there’s always stuck debris on their behind and under shell. What is the best way in removing this? I’ve had a few people say to use a little bit of soap, but I’m not too comfortable with that. Any other advice on cleaning dirty butts and bellies?

 

[TammyJ]

Hi there. We will need pictures and information on how you are keeping them, substrate, temperature, lights, diet, before we can properly help you. Then we can comment and suggest changes. Thank you!

 

[zovick]

My two little sulcatas are always dirty from eating , dirt or their poop. I soak them almost everyday and as much as they let me I’ll use a tooth brush to try to clean them up but there’s always stuck debris on their behind and under shell. What is the best way in removing this? I’ve had a few people say to use a little bit of soap, but I’m not too comfortable with that. Any other advice on cleaning dirty butts and bellies?

Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water and just brush away at the debris until it is gone. I have done that for years with my tortoises to clean them off and it won't hurt the tortoise.

 

[Warren]

My Sulcata get wash in the tub, I use the hand nozzle in the shower to remove any poo under his backside. Sometimes you will have to use your fingers to get it out. I raised 3 boys, would not be the first time I had poo on my hand.

 

[Ink]

I use fingernail brushes from the dollar store. They are bigger than a toothbrush, but just as gentle.

 

[zolasmum]

Wet cottonwool buds for babies are good for getting under the shell at the back, and can be pushed quite firmly without falling apart.
Angie

 

[jsheffield]

I use a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm water most of the time.

For stubborn crud on tortoise shells, I've also used white vinegar or Dawn dish soap, with plenty of rinsing afterward for either.

Jamie

 

[ZEROPILOT]

I'm NOT letting my tortoises know that y'all wash yours.

 

[Levi the Leopard]

I wouldn't use soap.

I'm NOT letting my tortoises know that y'all wash yours.

When you take a tortoise into someone else's home so a group of toddlers can pet and take pictures with it, you better believe they want a clean tortoise!! 🤣 haha

 

[Ella4545]

I use a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm water most of the time.

For stubborn crud on tortoise shells, I've also used white vinegar or Dawn dish soap, with plenty of rinsing afterward for either.

Jamie

I’ll try that that! It’s the “stubborn crud” in their grooves and behind that drive me crazy!