I'm making a stacked 6 tub 28 quart rack for ball pythons.

It consists of:
Melamine Board
(7 pieces) 2' x 18"
(2 pieces) 4' x 2'
(1 piece) 4' x 18"
(6) strips of 3" flexwatt (18" long) to put on each shelf for belly heat.
(6) sterilite 28 quart tubs
(1) thermostat
(250' (i know it's alot but it was only $7 on ebay )) Melamine edging (to make the rack look nice)


Things I need help with:

What bedding should I get? (NOT NEWSPAPER) Aspen, Cypress Mulch, Ecto Earth?
What should I get for hides? Get a bowl and cut a half circle?
What should I get for water bowls? Dog Bowl?
Anything else I need that would benefit the snake? Decor like vined leaves?



All suggestions will help, thanks!