Reptibator is a great machine. I use the same one. I don't know about hatch rite and I think you need very little water when using it , I could be wrong. You are supposed to dampen the sponge in the bator and water is supposed to be in the channels under the sponge. You certainly can fill the space in the bator with 100% cypress mulch. I am trying to keep you from moving the eggs too much.