I use shredded aspen currently. I have and occasionally use unprinted newspaper. If you want to use this, just go to your local paper and ask them for it. Usually free or a couple of bucks for a giant roll. Also, you can get corrugated craft paper from U-line.com and it has little dimples in the paper that help keep fecal material from spreading and still gives the snake something to rub against when shedding.