For bedding, I'd make sure to choose something really absorbant. Carefresh might work well, I'm not sure how it does at eliminating odors, or at least cutting down on them. I'd probably choose aspen or even pine. I wouldn't use pine for pet or breeder rodents, but if you don't plan on keeping them long anyhow, it might be your best bet. It's cheap and it does a relatively good job at reducing odor.

And yeah, if I were keeping rats or mice for a period of time, I'd use the stickied recipe to help ensure good healthy food.