A few questions about using newspaper as a substrate

[Brian Crook]

Hello all, I'm new here.

I'm thinking about purchasing my first ball python from the upcoming reptile breeders expo in my area, and just had a couple questions regarding the substrate in the enclosure. I understand a lot of people use paper towels or newspaper as the bedding in their enclosure and this really appeals to me for it's simplicity, low cost and ease of use.

My apologies if these questions have already been answered, but I was unable to find answers to them in my searches.

1. Silly question, but does newsprint rub off on the snake?

2. Is it best to shred the newspaper before use or should it be laid down in full sheets?

3. I'm thinking about using a plastic tub with an UTH affixed underneath one side, so should I use a repti-carpet product as well as newspaper inside, or is it best to just lay the newspaper right over the plastic?


Thanks in advance!