What is the best substrate?

I use repti bark- it looks nice and we like it. It ain't cheap though.

We did use newspaper when we had a mite problem, though! But I don't like how it looks.

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Originally Posted by Mike Cavanaugh

Please explain in detail how cypress mulch can possibly be easier to clean up then newspaper.

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yeah...I would be interested in knowing this as well..

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Originally Posted by Mike Cavanaugh

Please explain in detail how cypress mulch can possibly be easier to clean up then newspaper.

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lol well, it cannot be just as easy. but if they clean it up the same way i clean up my aspen then it can be 97% close to as easy..... but i use an huge shop vac and suck it all up in 5 sec. then i wipe down with cleaner lol

I use the brown indented craft paper from Uline - it comes on a huge roll that last forever and you can't beat it for cleanliness.

Just my thoughts.

I actually use newsprint (unprinted newspaper), and really like it.

Even better, if you have a big printing publisher in your town visit them. Every day they have left over unprinted paper to dispose of still on the roll. Many of them will give it to you for free. Without print on it

I have tried aspen don't like it.

I tried newspaper what a pain if the water spills. I was not crazy about the smell from it either.

Paper towel moves to much and if it gets stuck to the bottom of the tub, oh boy. It is not easy to get off if that happens.

I am now using cypress mulch and so far I like it. Before I put any type of substrate in the tubs I have a spare container that I dump it into and spray the whole thing down with P.A.M or B.K depending on what I have.

I use Desert Snow by T-Rex. I like it for several reasons.

1. It is pure white and it really shows off the animal. Against the white background the snakes look great!
2. It is easy to clean. When they go to the bathroom it will discolor the area and it is like a bullseye to clean up the mess. One quick scoop, replace with fresh and your done.
3. It is supposed to be ideal for Ball Pythons.
4. I think the enclosure also looks nice with the pure white substrate. The black hide and branches look great. Everything stands out from the surface.
5. It doesn't get moved around by the animals or slide around.

I think it is the best and my animals get the best. ;)

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Originally Posted by cartman89

but doesn't the newspaper print have toxic chemicals??

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At the seafood market they will wrap your fish in news paper.

This is what I use. http://store.uhaul.com/Protective_st...Wrapping_Paper I have tried wood shavings and that kind of thing. I just feel better using paper. Its cheap, does the job, and I don't have to worry about it getting stuck in my snakes. I can also run my thermostat a bit lower. It does not have to run so hot to keep my hot spots where they are. Only issue is humidity could be a bit higher. Thats an easy fix with some misting.