I just found a big hollow log Im going to bring in and use for my pinesnake, she is going to love it.
Ive used branches in the past no problem.I usually give them a scrub or soak them in the tub for a few hours to get most the creepy crawlies off. Some people will bleach or bake them but that doesnt work with large pieces.
Pouring some boiling water over them in the tub would pretty well to disinfect too.