My stuck shed remedy

[Skittles1101]

I see countless posts on stuck shed, and I discovered an easy way to remedy those tricky sheds this winter. I figured I'd post it (sticky it if you'd like) so that everyone can refer back to it as needed. Basically what's always suggested is soaking, soaking + pillowcase, or using a crappy pet store shed removal something-or-other. I'm a single mom and a very hard worker, so I don't always have 30-40 minutes to assist with shedding. This winter was very hard up here in Massachusetts as far as humidity goes, so I found myself spending A LOT of time soaking and assisting with sheds. I tried this once, and I don't think I'll ever need to assist shed again.

What you'll need is a tub with lid (appropriate sized, nothing huge). Solder or drill very few air holes, maybe 4-5 on two sides, and that's all max (NONE on the lid!). Don't worry, your snake will be able to breathe

I use newspaper to line the bottom, however I think paper towels will work the same. I then soak the newspaper, usually about 1/4 of water. It should be enough to soak the newspaper, but not enough where it causes puddles. I also try and use warm water, that way you aren't sticking your snake into a cold, wet environment. I usually will add a hide (for the little guys) and a water dish, then just add the snake. I put the tub on top of a UTH (regulated with a thermostat! This is necessary.)

I usually do this at night right before I go to bed. By morning, every single time I've done this, my snakes have worked the shed off themselves. Once it's off, just put them back in their normal homes I find it much easier to allow them to work it off themselves. Don't get freaked out, because of the water there will be condensation on the walls and lid, but this is only temporary. I have not had any issues thus far doing this. Of course if bad sheds become a habit, you should really look into your husbandry and try to fix that instead of having to do this every shed cycle, but it definitely works especially if you're an on-the-go person. I spend enough time having to clean, feed, water, and socialize these guys...less time assisting with sheds = more time cuddling