Low Maintenance Pets That Are Surprisingly Perfect for Kids, Apartments & Busy Lives
No barking. No shedding. No daily cleanup. Just pure, peaceful companionship.
Looking for a pet that fits your lifestyle instead of turning it upside down?
Whether you're a parent searching for your child’s first “starter pet,” a teacher wanting a quiet classroom companion, or someone with a packed schedule who still craves a connection to something living — we get it. The good news? Therearepets that are calm, clean, and truly low maintenance. Even better, there’s one you may not have considered yet.
The Usual Suspects
Low Maintenance Pets That Aren’t That Low Maintenance
When people search for easy pets, a few classics always pop up: goldfish, hamsters, turtles, maybe a betta fish. While all of these can be rewarding, they’re not exactly “hands-off.”
- Fish tanks require filters, water testing, and regular cleaning.
- Hamsters and gerbils are cute, but can be noisy at night and need cage cleanings.
- Turtles and lizards often require expensive heat lamps and special diets.
They’re great pets in their own right — but if you're looking for something truly low effort, we have a better option.
Enter: Moss Ball Pets
The easiest “pet” you’ll ever love.
Marimo Moss Balls (Aegagropila linnaei) are soft, round, aquatic algae that live in freshwater. In Japanese culture, they’re considered good luck, and across the world, they’re quickly becoming the go-to pet for people who want somethingalive, lovable,and easy to care for.These little green companions:
- Don’t need feeding, walking, or scooping
- Thrive in low light and room-temperature water
- Are safe for kids, pets, and classrooms
- Can live for decades with basic care
They’re fun to decorate, name, and gently swish around every now and then. Best of all? They require no special equipment. Just a clean jar, some fresh water, and a bit of love.
Ready to get your very own Moss Ball Pet?
Embark on a creative journey with our Terrarium Customizer and bring your vision to life. Select from a myriad of colors, choose your Marimo companions, and crown your creation with a stunning gemstone topper.
Are Moss Balls Technically Pets?
Well… they’re alive. People name them. Talk to them. Decorate them. Carry them around. They offer a connection to nature and a peaceful presence that brings a little joy every day. So no, they don’t purr or play fetch. But they’re still a living gift that teaches care, routine, and appreciation — and sometimes, that’s even better.
Frequently Asked Questions for Low Maintenance Pets
Great low maintenance pets include goldfish, betta fish, snails, and aquatic moss balls like Marimo. These pets don’t require daily care, expensive gear, or constant attention. They’re ideal for people with busy schedules or for kids learning responsibility.
The easiest pets to care for are those that don’t require feeding, walking, or frequent cleaning. Aquatic pets like Marimo Moss Balls and snails are extremely low-effort while still providing a sense of companionship and fun.
Yes! Pets like fish, hermit crabs, and Moss Ball Pets live comfortably in small enclosures. They’re perfect for apartments, dorm rooms, or classrooms with limited space and make a great pet option for minimalist lifestyles.
A good first pet should be easy to care for, safe, and low-stress for both the child and the parent. Options like betta fish or a Moss Ball Pet are great beginner choices, offering a gentle way to learn responsibility without major commitment.
Pets that live in water, like fish or Marimo Moss Balls, are typically odor-free. They don’t produce dander or mess, making them ideal for allergy-sensitive households or shared living spaces. Just keep their environment clean and they stay fresh.
Yes—some of the best classroom pets are low maintenance and safe around children. Small aquatic animals, snails, or Marimo Moss Balls require very little care, are fun to observe, and won’t trigger allergies or require special handling.