A bearded dragon's habitat requires regular cleaning to maintain a healthy environment. The substrate should be spot-cleaned daily to remove waste and uneaten food. A thorough cleaning, including replacing the substrate and disinfecting the terrarium, should be done at least once a month. For habitats using paper substrates, like newspaper or butcher paper, daily changes are recommended due to their inability to absorb odors and moisture effectively. Ensuring cleanliness helps prevent the development of bacteria and parasites, which can be detrimental to the reptile's health.