Cryptanthus thrive in tropical conditions, and you should make efforts to keep them moist. Make sure, however, not to rest them in standing water. A moderately damp environment is moisture enough for these plants. But bromeliads are surprisingly tolerant of short periods of drought.
Cryptanthus makes an ideal houseplant: Keeping them around 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit will allow these bromeliads to thrive. Cryptanthus plants are fairly forgiving of swings in temperature. Though temperate conditions are best, many varieties can even survive a winter outside as long as they are not kept below freezing for too long.
These bromeliads require regulary fertilization for maximum growth and will thrive on any balanced fertilizer: 10-10-10, 14-14-14, etc. A diluted, balanced fertilizer is perfect.