How to disinfect a 4-foot branch

[Bogertophis]

Good point about the bleach, I didn't even think about that. I was thinking using the torch a few feet away (depending on the torch) so the temperature was only a few hundred degrees at the most, rather than over 500*. But the steam-cleaner would likely work better.

You might be able to use a torch IF you get the branch real wet first? Then it would essentially be a "steamer".

When I've baked small enough branches in my oven, I also got them wet first- last thing anyone needs is for this stuff to catch fire. And any "baking" is only on a very low oven, like 150*, anyway- fyi.

Bleach is a very effective (& toxic) disinfectant, but you ONLY want to use it on non-porous* materials. If wood cage furnishings retain ANY bleach odor, remember that in most cases, your snakes (or other herps) will be breathing those fumes "24/7", especially since many enclosures have minimal air-flow in order to retain the humidity desired. That makes it more than just unpleasant for them, it becomes irritating & toxic.

*and by non-porous, that's like glass. Many plastics will retain bleach (odor+) too- & that's also why empty bleach bottles are never supposed to be re-used, so be careful what you use it on, or in what concentration you use it.