Number of hides in tub

[HenryTheSnake]

Hey All!
I am switching my 5 month 80 gram ball python from a 20 gallon glass terrarium into a 16 Qt tub. I currently have two hides for him in the 20 gallon, and was wondering if it was ok to put his favorite hide only into the tub. If so, should I put it on top of the hot side or the cool side? I am going to clutter up the tub a bit (like with fake plastic plants), so I don't think security should be too much of an issue.
A side note, I am not using the tub in a rack system, I am using it standalone. I am going to cover three sides of the tub with white printer paper for added security (And maybe a little insulation).

Thanks,
HenryTheSnake

[Stewart_Reptiles]

1 in a 6 quarts tub.

2 in a 16 quarts tub.

At this size you are looking for 6 inches wide plastic flower pot saucers (hides need to be very tight and low profile.)

[HenryTheSnake]

Would two Styrofoam bowls about that size also work? I am only worried about my snake getting paper cuts (If that's even possible).
Thanks,
HenryTheSnake

[Stewart_Reptiles]

It can work but once they are soiled they need to be replaced, a $0.99 plastic flower pot saucer can be washed.

[HenryTheSnake]

Where do I get the flower pot saucers in-store?

[bcr229]

Somewhere like Home Depot or Lowes will have them.

An alternative is to use ready-meal plastic food containers from something like Nissan noodles (there's a variety that has a plastic container versus paper), or Hormel "Compleats" meals. Just eat the food - I keep a few as a quick cheap lunch at work if I forgot to brown-bag it that morning - run the container through the dishwasher, and cut an access hole with a pair of scissors.