I use pine shavings with a layer of pine pellets on the bottom. I have used aspen and carefresh, but like the mix of pine shavings and pine pellets. My rats are in a spare bedroom which is also my 'entertainment room' (my gaming systems, tv and computer are in there). The smell is minimum. I have never had any problem keeping my rats (pets, feeders and breeders) on pine, and I have been keeping rats for almost 20 years now. I buy my shavings and pellets at a feed store, I would pay twice as much for less in a pet store.
As for how often I clean my tubs, it depends. My two pet boys in a large cage only need to be cleaned every other week or so. Grow out tubs, depending on how many rats, may need to be cleaned every couple of days. I don't use a lot of the pellets, only enough to cover the bottom in a single layer. I find it really does help a lot with the smell.
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