i don't use substrate i just clean and wash there cages as they go potty. now if i had to pick a substrate I'd go with aspen not really the best oder absorber but I'm sure it would have to work better then none at all or paper towels and newspapers

a few well placed time release air fresheners work wonders when dealing with smells if you get these go with ozome as this type of spray it don't mask the smell it gets rid of it. and a spray hear and there is all that is needed