How to Choose the Best Jumping Spider Enclosure (Beginner’s Guide)

Jumping Spider Enclosures: Top vs Front Opening (Pros & Cons)

Choosing the perfect jumping spider enclosure can feel overwhelming at first, especially for new keepers. Whether you’re setting up your first jumping spider habitat or upgrading an existing enclosure, choosing the right style plays a huge role in your spider’s comfort and safety.

Do you want a top opening enclosure so you can easily decorate and clean? Or do you prefer a front opening door so you don’t disturb your spider? Would you rather drill your own ventilation holes, or have everything ready to go out of the box?

Let’s break it down, starting with one of the most popular beginner options.

Top-Opening Jumping Spider Enclosures

(Better Homes & Gardens Containers from Walmart)

These clear plastic containers are widely used and easy to find. They come in multiple sizes and are budget-friendly, making them a common choice for DIY enclosures.

Featured size: 5x5x7 or 7.5-cup container (shown above)

✅ Pros

• Affordable: Typically $6–$14 depending on size
  
  
• Easy to find: Often in stock at Walmart or available online
  
  
• Easy misting & feeding: Grommets and feeding holes allow quick access
  
  
• Simple decorating: The removable top gives full access to arrange decor
  
  
• Easy cleaning: Lift the top to remove leftover prey without your spider escaping
  
  
• Feeding convenience: Drop food through the feeder hole or place prey on the “table” and lower the enclosure over it
  
  

❌ Cons

• Requires drilling: You’ll need to drill ventilation holes, which can be tedious
  
  
• Extra supplies needed: Grommets, mesh, drill bits, hole saws, and a drill all add cost
  
  
• Can disrupt webbing: Since jumping spiders are arboreal, they often build webs near the top. If decor is too tall, lifting the lid can damage their webbing and stress your spider
  
  

For many keepers, this step takes some of the fun out of creating an enclosure—especially if DIY tools aren’t your thing.

Front-Opening Enclosures for Jumping Spiders

Take me to Jumping Spider Enclosure Above 

(House-shaped and square styles are the most popular)

Front-opening enclosures are becoming a favorite for both beginners and experienced keepers due to convenience and spider comfort.

✅ Pros

• No drilling required: Ready to decorate right out of the box
  
  
• Wide variety of styles and sizes
  
  
• Minimal disturbance: Front doors allow access without lifting the top
  
  
• Easy feeding & misting: Simply open the door
  
  

❌ Cons

• Higher cost: These enclosures are typically more expensive (the one shown above was $29.99 on Amazon)
  
  
• More difficult to decorate: Limited access makes placing or rearranging decor tricky
  
  
• Harder to clean: Leftover prey and spider poop can be difficult to spot and reach
  
  

The Most Important Thing to Remember

No matter which enclosure you choose, the most important question should always be:

“Is this the best environment for my spider?”

Your enclosure should:

• Offer plenty of climbing opportunities
  
  
• Include multiple hiding spots
  
  
• Mimic your spider’s natural environment
  
  
• Have soft flooring for safe landings
  
  
• Avoid sharp edges
  
  

As your spider ages, their needs will change. Older jumping spiders may lose grip strength, making it harder for them to climb smooth surfaces. Adding vines, ribbon, or textured decor helps them continue to move safely around their enclosure.

Spiders will occasionally fall—whether from age or chasing prey—so planning for safety from the start is essential.

At the end of the day, there’s no single “perfect” enclosure—only the one that works best for you and your spider. Every keeper’s style evolves with experience, and your setup will naturally change as you learn your spider’s habits and needs. What matters most is creating a safe, enriching environment where your spider can climb, hide, explore, and thrive through every stage of life. Choosing the right enclosure is just the beginning; once that decision is made, the real fun starts with decorating and customizing a space your spider will truly feel at home in. Be sure to explore the rest of the site for enclosure ideas, decor inspiration, and helpful tips to guide you along the way.