Hamsters are pretty much the common household pets especially for kids who took a liking to them due to their irresistible cuteness. These small rodents usually live for about two years and do best if housed alone. You would be surprised that there are actually a lot of breeds of hamsters. They range in size and characteristics. Know your breed and what its full grown size will be so you can purchase the right sized cage and equipment.
Do take note of the tips below:
Choose the Correct Hamster Cage
Get a cage that is large enough, escape-proof, and easy to clean. Never underestimate the ability of a hamster to escape, as it can fit through pretty small spaces and chew through plastic walls surprisingly quickly. Always remember that your hamster has one plan in mind, “PRISON BREAK”.
Add Hamster Bedding and Nesting Material
Veer away from cedar and pine-wood chips for bedding for your hamster; the odor can be irritating to hamsters' respiratory systems. Shredded toilet paper or facial tissues are excellent nesting materials and are economical as well. Bedding materials can be cleaned out and replaced during the weekly cage cleaning.
Choose Hamster Food and Containers
Pick a good quality food for your hamster. Pelleted foods offer a good nutritional balance and for many hamsters are a better option than loose food mixes. With a loose mix (seeds and other items), your hamster might pick out what it likes and leave what it doesn't, which could result in a dietary imbalance or an overweight hamster.
Offer Exercise Options
These cute rodents love to run and need the exercise, so purchase the largest, best-quality exercise wheel you can. It should have a solid surface for running and ideally no cross supports (that might catch a leg or neck). Look for one that mounts on the side of the cage. Make sure the wheel is quiet as well since hamsters run at night.
You might stop just to watch them running around the exercise wheel.
Consider a Hamster House or Hide Box
Your hamster will appreciate a private getaway for sleeping. A house or hide box can be as simple as a small cardboard box (it will have to be replaced often but it is economical), a plastic hide box (it may be chewed up), a wooden box (it may be chewed or get soiled and smelly), or other things like a half coconut shell or a small clay plant pot.
Source: https://www.thesprucepets.com/supplies-needed-for-a-pet-hamster-1238928