The problem with aspen is that is is really prone to molding when it is damp. Coconut husk or cypress mulch will not mold as easily, and they are darker, so it might be easier to see urates.
There are plenty of people who use paper towels or newspaper for a substrate, and as long as the snake has a hide I think you will be fine. The only thing is, you can't really spot clean with either one, and they are not super absorbent so you will probably have to change them out more frequently.
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