New Tank...need Some Suggestions Please :)

[SoCalMom]

I'm going to be getting Alfie a 5 gal in the next few weeks (YAY!)

Anyway, I wanted to know whether a hex or a mini bow would have more floor space? I was thinking the mini bow would, but I could be wrong. I need to know because I plan on getting a few more plants and a hide

That leads me to the next part

The last cave thing I had made the water smell like burning plastic/sulfur. Does anyone have a recommendation on a good brand for castles/caves/hides of any kind? What type of hide do your bettas seem to like (cave/barrel/etc)?

Thanks

 

[stang1]

Not sure on floor space but either of them would be fine.
For decor, I use rock and bogwood that I've positioned to create caves. My boys are more than happy with it.

 

[1ncubu5]

i have a 7gal mini bow and i love it. I have a big bit of bogwood right across it and 4 slates arranged in to a cave. It's also quite well planted and my betta absolutely loves hiding among the plants and swimming in and out of them

 

[joycould]

They both have about the same foot print. The view would probably be better in the bow. If you go with bog wood watch your ph it might take it down a notch or two, I have low ph to begin with. Since you had problems with the ammonia cycle before get something you want to use in your new tank and stick it in your tank you are using now so the good bacteria has a chance to colonize. For a cave in my tanks I use a clay flower pot, have my son take out the end of it usually with scoring it and hitting it with a hammer, attach some java moss and maybe a java fern with black thread and use that.