Side vents vs top vents?

[Mr B Smithi]

I have read that venting on the side of an enclosure is best for 'cross ventilation' and on top is slightly frowned upon. Is there a right or wrong and what are the pros and cons of each option?
My setup currently is a small container for a B hamorii sling, so just a few pin holes in the top lid to slow down moisture evaporating.

 

[user 666]

I recommend a combination of top and bottom vents so you will have adequate cross circulation.

 

[WeightedAbyss75]

In my experience, top ventillation tends to dry out the cage faster than the same amount of side vents. Might be because the evaporated water goes up? I have no idea, but I like side ventillation. Check out this older thread, super interesting when it comes to top vs side.

http://arachnoboards.com/threads/top-side-ventilation-from-the-view-of-molecular-motion.288478/

Doesn't seem to make a difference, I just like side venting because it leaves the top clean and easy to look into

 

[viper69]

There's no science in the hobby for ventilation. People do what works for them. Cross vent is all vertical, but I use top as well esp for Avics and other arboreals.

The one thing that is a science is never make the holes wider than the carapace of the T going in, if you do, you're offering an escape route.

 

[Ungoliant]

I have read that venting on the side of an enclosure is best for 'cross ventilation' and on top is slightly frowned upon. Is there a right or wrong and what are the pros and cons of each option?

I use a combination of side and top ventilation to improve airflow. For slings, I use fewer holes in the top so that the moisture does not evaporate as quickly.