Ultratherm are the best, for sure. Stick with them. I also use those thermostats (have 3) and have never had any problems with them. That said, once I start getting my pvc enclosures I'll be upgrading.

I love paper towel substrate. This cleaning I switched my tubs to aspen to give it a try and I hate it. It's so messy, with little pieces always getting in the water bowels. I'm definitely going to be switching back.

As far as the lid clips... If you're talking the ones for lids at the petstore I'm not sure how well they'll work on a tub. For my tubs, I use luggage straps I picked up at the dollar store (can't beat the price ) and use them to hold the middle tight. Never had an escape.

And lastly... That looks like a Papillon in that pic and my dog looks identical. XD