10 Cheap Aquarium Decor Ideas For Betta Fish

As a proud betta parent myself, I’ve always been fascinated by the challenge of creating a captivating aquarium on a budget.

Betta fish, with their striking colors and dynamic personalities, deserve a home that mirrors their beauty without emptying your wallet.

Let me share with you 10 of my go-to, budget-friendly aquarium decor ideas that will make your betta’s tank not just a place to live, but a world to explore.

Before we dive into decor, remember that decorations are just one piece of the puzzle. Your betta still needs the essentials—a proper tank (5+ gallons minimum), gentle filter, and reliable heater.

Once you’ve got those covered, these budget-friendly decor ideas will take your tank from basic to beautiful!

Budget-Friendly Decor vs. Essential Equipment

Let’s be real: decorations are fun, but they’re not what keeps your betta alive. Here’s where to splurge vs. where to save:

Don’t Skimp On:

• Quality filtration – $15-30 for a reliable filter beats dead fish
• Reliable heater – Cheap heaters fail and kill bettas
• Water conditioner – Essential for safe water
• Proper tank size – Minimum 5 gallons, 10 is better

Save Money On:

• Decorations (that’s what this list is for!)
• Background materials
• Non-essential accessories

Once you’ve got the essentials covered, these cheap decor ideas will make your tank look amazing without breaking the bank.

Safety First: What to Avoid

Before we get to the fun stuff, here’s what NOT to put in your betta tank:

• Sharp-edged decorations (test with pantyhose)
• Painted items that can leach chemicals
• Small decorations bettas can get stuck in
• Untreated natural items (boil first!)
• Anything with rough textures

Betta fins are delicate—one sharp edge can cause permanent damage. When in doubt, check our safe decoration guide.

If Betta piqued your interest, this article will take you even further. 10 Stunning Betta Fish Wallpapers for iPhone

10 Cheap Aquarium Decor Ideas For Betta Fish

1. Natural Stones and Pebbles:

Collect smooth stones and pebbles from outdoor areas, ensuring they are clean and safe for your aquarium. Arrange them to create hiding spots and visual interest for your betta.

2. Live Plants:

Some aquatic plants are inexpensive and can greatly enhance the aesthetic of your aquarium. Java fern, anubias, and moss balls are hardy, easy to care for, and provide excellent hiding places for bettas.

Live plants also help maintain water quality by absorbing nitrates. Pair them with regular water testing and treatment for a thriving planted tank.

If Betta piqued your interest, this article will take you even further. Create a Stunning Purple Betta Fish Amigurumi With Flowing Fins

3. DIY Caves:

Use safe, aquarium-appropriate materials like terra cotta pots or PVC pipes cut to size. Ensure all edges are smooth to prevent harm to your betta. These can serve as excellent shelters.

Not feeling the DIY route? We’ve curated a list of ready-made betta-safe caves and decorations with smooth edges and no sharp points.

4. natural driftwood:

Purchase a driftwood from your local aquarium store. They are relatively inexpensive and provide a natural-looking shelter that bettas love.

5. Silk Plants:

If live plants are too much maintenance, opt for silk plants. They’re safer than plastic ones as they won’t tear your betta’s fins and still add a pop of color to your tank.

6. Coconut Shells:

Half a coconut shell can serve as a natural cave for your betta. Make sure it’s clean and free of any residual coconut meat or fibers.

Coconut shells also release beneficial tannins into the water, similar to Indian Almond Leaves—which we highly recommend for betta health.

7. Mossy Log Betta Hide

8. Themed Decorations:

Look for inexpensive aquarium decorations at pet stores that fit a specific theme you like. Just ensure they have no sharp edges and are non-toxic.

9. 3D Backgrounds:

A simple and cheap way to change the look of your aquarium is by adding a 3D background.

10. DIY Plant Pots:

Small, aquarium-safe pots can be filled with aquarium soil and live plants to create a natural-looking environment. These can also provide hiding spots for your betta.

Create Your Dream Tank Without Breaking the Bank

These budget-friendly decor ideas prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to create a beautiful home for your betta. Mix and match these options to create a unique setup that reflects your style.

Remember the priority order:

1. Essential equipment first – Tank, filter, heater, water treatment
2. Quality food – High-protein betta pellets
3. Then decorations – Make it pretty with these budget ideas!

Pro Tip: Start with one or two decor pieces and add more over time. Your betta will appreciate gradual changes more than a complete overnight transformation.

Need help with the essentials? Our Complete Betta Fish Owner Essentials Guide has everything you need to keep your betta healthy—then you can focus on making their home beautiful!