Im scared to use perlite seen a few posts of babies that died drinking the water in the bottom. Im using straight vermiculite no additive no nothing get it at walmarts for 2.97 a bag. I use alot of perlite and vermiculite for other projects and hobbies but I would never use perlite with baby snakes ever. (IMO) Wet the vermiculite just till it starts to sick together by its self, it will feel spounge-y in your hand when you squeeze and no water should run out between your fingers, to wet then.