Treat bedding with baking soda

[oskyle1567]

Man what a difference! Really helps with the smell. What are your guys thoughts I put about a 1/2 cup in a bag with the substrate and shake it up. Is this going to harm my rats saw this technique on the internet somewhere.

[Rhasputin]

It is safe to use.

[Infirmary]

We have been using baking soda for a couple weeks now and I believe it is making a difference. We put the baking soda on the bottom of the tub and then put bedding on top of it. Our next step is to try vinegar in the water. I have been told this will help with the ammonia smell. Anyone have any info to share on this? Thanks

[suzuki4life]

no need to mix it in the bedding...

lightly coat the bottom of the tub then add the bedding. I did it for years.

The additives to the water works "ok" at best. I wouldn't use it on a auto water system...

[PitOnTheProwl]

I use water bottles and add one 8oz bottle of vanilla to my water jug that I keep out in the shed. It sure saves the walking back and forth
7 gallons lasts almost a week and the vanilla does make a difference

[Infirmary]

The additives to the water works "ok" at best. I wouldn't use it on a auto water system...

Why not with an auto water system? Thanks

[PitOnTheProwl]

Why not with an auto water system? Thanks

I wouldnt use the vanilla with a system because it leaves behind residue, almost like a brown skin but it takes some time.

[suzuki4life]

it leaves residue as said and it attracts and fuels bacteria growth. That includes the usage of vanilla.

[oskyle1567]

Thanks guys some great replies Im going to put it on the bottom of the tub for now. Im content with what the baking soda is doing but i may try the vanilla technique also. I have heard that food makes a difference also i have read that using dog food gives a worse smell than food ment for rats.

[SquamishSerpents]

Personally, if I can smell ammonia, I know I should have cleaned the tubs long ago...

I can smell ammonia sometimes if I stick my head like, RIGHT over top of the pee corner and inhale deeply, but other than that I don't really let it get to a point of the ammonia being a problem whatsoever