When it comes to choosing the best snake bedding, there are several factors to consider. The type of bedding material is the most critical factor, as it can impact your snake’s health and safety. Some materials, such as cedar and pine, can release harmful oils and chemicals that can irritate your snake’s respiratory system. Other materials, such as sand and gravel, can cause impaction if ingested.

After extensive research and testing, we have identified the best snake bedding options on the market. In the following sections, we will discuss the features, pros, and cons of each bedding type to help you make an informed decision for your pet snake.

10 Best Snake Bedding

We understand that finding the perfect bedding for your pet snake can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one that will provide comfort and safety for your slithery friend. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various snake beddings to bring you our top picks. From natural to synthetic options, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share our recommendations for the best snake beddings available on Amazon.

Croci Natural Cypress Mulch Bedding

We highly recommend the Croci Natural Cypress Mulch Bedding for all snake owners who want a natural, eco-friendly, and safe bedding option for their pets.

Pros

• 100% natural cypress mulch
• All natural green “product”
• Recommended terrarium substrate for many species of snakes, lizards, land turtles, tortoises, frogs, toads, salamanders, tarantulas

Cons

• May contain some dust
• May require frequent maintenance
• May not be suitable for all snake species

We have been using the Croci Natural Cypress Mulch Bedding for our pet snakes for a while now and we have found it to be one of the best bedding options available in the market. The bedding is made of 100% natural cypress mulch, which makes it eco-friendly and safe for our pets. It is also an all natural green “product” which is great for the environment.

One of the biggest advantages of this bedding is that it is a recommended terrarium substrate for many species of snakes, lizards, land turtles, tortoises, frogs, toads, salamanders, tarantulas. This means that it is versatile and can be used for a variety of pets.

However, the bedding may contain some dust and may require frequent maintenance to keep it clean and fresh. It may also not be suitable for all snake species, so it is important to do your research before purchasing.

Overall, we believe that the Croci Natural Cypress Mulch Bedding is a great option for snake owners who want a natural and safe bedding option for their pets. It is easy to use, versatile, and eco-friendly.

Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding 24 quart

We highly recommend Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding 24 quart for snake owners who want a naturalistic substrate that allows their pets to form burrows and nests as they would in the wild.

Pros

• Made from a renewable resource, eco-friendly
• Easy to clean
• Safe for all snakes, odorless

Cons

• Can be a little dry, needs to be sprayed more often
• Not suitable for aquatic or semi-aquatic reptiles
• May not be the best choice for snakes that require high humidity levels

Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding 24 quart is a green product made from renewable aspen wood fibers, making it safe for all snakes. It is also easy to clean, and it doesn’t emit any unpleasant odors. The bedding has a 191% absorbency rating, which means it can hold up to twice its weight in moisture, keeping your snake’s enclosure dry and clean.

One of the downsides of this bedding is that it can be a little dry, so you need to spray it more often to maintain the right humidity levels. Additionally, it is not suitable for aquatic or semi-aquatic reptiles. Lastly, it may not be the best choice for snakes that require high humidity levels.

Overall, Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding 24 quart is an excellent choice for snake owners who want to provide a safe, naturalistic substrate for their pets. It can also be used for birds, lizards, tortoises, turtles, tarantulas, and insects.

Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate

If you’re looking for a premium substrate for your reptiles, invertebrates, and amphibians, Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate is an excellent option.

Pros

• This product is the cleanest reptile substrate available in the market.
• It is 100% organic, safe, and sustainable.
• The product is ready to use—just add water for expansion and increased humidity.

Cons

• The amount of substrate in the bag may not be enough for larger terrariums.
• The substrate may need to be changed frequently for certain species.
• The product may be slightly more expensive than other substrates.

We have used Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate for our bearded dragon and leopard gecko, and it has worked great. The substrate is easy to use and expands well when water is added. It is also very clean and free of debris, making it a great option for those who want to keep their terrariums as clean as possible.

One of the best things about this substrate is that it is eco-friendly and sustainable. We appreciate the fact that ReptiChip deeply respects the environment and sources only the best quality coconut husk for their products.

Overall, we highly recommend Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate for anyone looking for a high-quality, clean, and eco-friendly substrate for their reptiles, invertebrates, and amphibians.

Zoo Med ReptiSand®, 10 Pounds, Desert White 10 lb

If you’re looking for a natural sand bedding for your desert reptiles, Zoo Med ReptiSand® is a great option.

Pros

• All natural no dyes or colors added
• Perfect for desert reptiles
• Stimulates natural digging behavior

Cons

• May not be suitable for non-desert reptiles
• Can be messy
• Some users reported issues with sand getting into their reptiles’ eyes

We’ve used Zoo Med ReptiSand® for our bearded dragon and it’s been a great option. The natural sand color looks great in his enclosure and he loves digging around in it. It’s also easy to clean and replace when needed.

One of the biggest pros of this product is that it’s all natural with no added dyes or colors. This is important for the health and safety of your reptile. Additionally, it’s specifically designed for desert reptiles, so you can be confident that it’s the right choice for your pet.

However, it’s worth noting that this sand may not be the best option for non-desert reptiles. Additionally, it can be messy and may require more frequent cleaning than other bedding options. Some users also reported issues with sand getting into their reptiles’ eyes, so it’s important to monitor your pet and make sure they’re not experiencing any discomfort.

Overall, if you’re looking for a natural sand bedding option for your desert reptile, Zoo Med ReptiSand® is a great choice. Just be mindful of the potential cons and make sure it’s the right option for your specific pet.

Galapagos Cypress Tank Mulch Forest Floor Bedding

We highly recommend the Galapagos Cypress Tank Mulch Forest Floor Bedding for reptile owners who want to provide a natural and safe substrate for their pets.

Pros

• High absorbency that controls tropical humidity
• Smaller bark facilitates natural feeding habits
• 100% safe and free from salt chemicals, oils, and parasites

Cons

• Some pieces may be too big or sharp for certain reptiles
• May arrive damaged and dusty due to shipping
• May contain cypress shake in the package

We have used this bedding for our ball python and have been impressed with its absorbency and natural look. The smaller bark pieces make it easier for our snake to move around and hunt. We also appreciate that it is made from sustainable timber by-product and is free from harmful chemicals.

However, we have noticed that some pieces can be too big or sharp for certain reptiles, so it is important to inspect the bedding before use. Additionally, the product may arrive damaged and dusty due to shipping, which can be a hassle. Lastly, there may be cypress shake in the package, which can introduce contaminants to the enclosure.

Overall, we believe that the Galapagos Cypress Tank Mulch Forest Floor Bedding is a great choice for reptile owners who want a natural and safe substrate for their pets.

Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate

If you’re looking for a premium and organic substrate for your reptiles, then Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Provides a perfect microclimate for nesting and burrowing
• Dust-free and resistant to compaction
• Made of 100% organic and sustainable coco husk

Cons

• May not be suitable for all reptile species
• May require frequent misting for tropical species
• May not be the most affordable option

We’ve used Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate for our bearded dragon and tarantulas, and we’re impressed with its quality. The fluffy coconut mulch is perfect for creating a natural-looking and comfortable environment for your pets.

One of the best things about this substrate is that it is dust-free and resistant to compaction, which means that your reptiles can dig and burrow without any issues. Additionally, it is made of 100% organic and sustainable coco husk, making it a great choice for environmentally-conscious pet owners.

However, it’s important to note that this substrate may not be suitable for all reptile species. It may require frequent misting for tropical species, and it may not be the most affordable option on the market. Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and organic substrate for your reptiles, Reptichip Premium Coconut Substrate is definitely worth considering.

Zilla Pet Reptile Terrarium Substrate Bedding, Jungle Mix

If you’re looking for a natural substrate for your tropical and forest habitat reptiles, then Zilla Pet Reptile Terrarium Substrate Bedding, Jungle Mix, is a great option.

Pros

• The sphagnum moss and fir shavings blend retains a high level of humidity, which is ideal for tropical and forest habitats.
• It’s 100% natural, which means it’s safe for your pets.
• The ideal bedding depth in the enclosure is 1 to 2 inches, and you can remove and replace the bedding as needed.

Cons

• It’s not suitable for arid species and desert dwellers.
• It may not be the most cost-effective option.
• Some users may find the bedding to be too moist.

We’ve used Zilla Pet Reptile Terrarium Substrate Bedding, Jungle Mix, for our frogs and snakes, and we’re happy with the results. The bedding retains moisture well, which is essential for tropical and forest habitats. We also appreciate that it’s 100% natural, so we don’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals or additives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this bedding may not be the best option for arid species and desert dwellers. Additionally, the bedding may be too moist for some users, so it’s essential to monitor the humidity levels in your enclosure.

Overall, we recommend Zilla Pet Reptile Terrarium Substrate Bedding, Jungle Mix, for those looking for a natural and moisture-retaining substrate for their tropical and forest habitat reptiles.

Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding

We highly recommend the Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding for anyone looking for a safe and naturalistic substrate for their snakes, lizards, and small animals.

Pros

• Provides a safe and naturalistic substrate for burrowing and nesting
• 191% absorbency rating
• No toxic oils like cedar and other similar wood shavings

Cons

• A bit expensive compared to other options
• May not be suitable for larger enclosures
• May require frequent cleaning for some animals

We recently used the Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding for our pet snake and we are impressed with its performance. The bedding provides a natural environment for our snake to burrow and nest, just like it would in the wild. It also has a high absorbency rating, which helps to keep the enclosure clean and odor-free.

One of the best things about this bedding is that it does not contain any toxic oils like cedar and other similar wood shavings, which can be harmful to some animals. It is also 99.9% dust-free, which is great for animals with sensitive respiratory systems.

However, the Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding is a bit more expensive compared to other options on the market. It may also not be suitable for larger enclosures, as it may require frequent cleaning. Nonetheless, we believe that the benefits of using this bedding outweigh the cons.

Overall, we highly recommend the Zoo Med Aspen Snake Bedding for anyone looking for a naturalistic and safe substrate for their snakes, lizards, and small animals.

Zilla Reptile Terrarium Floor Liners Green 30BR/40BR/50/65 Gallon, 17.25″ x 35.25″

If you’re looking for a safe and easy choice for a fresh, healthy habitat for your pet reptile, then the Zilla Reptile Terrarium Floor Liners are definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The bio-degradable enzyme reduces odors, making it a more pleasant environment for both you and your pet.
• The absorbent, non-abrasive material will not irritate your reptile’s skin.
• It is safe and cannot be ingested by your pet, giving you peace of mind.

Cons

• The liner may not fit all terrariums, so make sure to measure your enclosure before purchasing.
• Some users have reported that the liner can bunch up or shift around, making it less effective.
• The liner may not be as durable as other bedding options, so you may need to replace it more frequently.

In our experience, the Zilla Reptile Terrarium Floor Liners are easy-to-clean and maintain. The liner fits perfectly in our terrarium and has reduced odors significantly. We appreciate that the material is safe for our pet and does not irritate their skin. However, we have noticed that the liner can bunch up if not properly secured, so we recommend using tape or clips to keep it in place.

Overall, we believe that the Zilla Reptile Terrarium Floor Liners are a great choice for pet owners looking for a safe and easy-to-use bedding option.

ReptiChip Premium Coconut Substrate

If you’re looking for a high-quality reptile substrate, we highly recommend the ReptiChip Premium Coconut Substrate.

Pros

• Easy to use for a wide range of reptile species
• Dust-free and clean
• Environmentally-friendly

Cons

• Some users may find the substrate expands less than expected
• May require mixing with other bedding for certain species
• Not suitable for use with all reptile species

We’ve used this substrate for our own reptiles and have been impressed with its quality and versatility. It’s easy to use right out of the bag for dry/arid species, and can be moistened with water for tropical animals. The substrate is clean and dust-free, making it a great choice for your reptile’s health.

One of the best things about the ReptiChip Premium Coconut Substrate is that it’s environmentally-friendly. The substrate is 100% organic and sustainable, and the company takes great care to ensure all processing, packaging, and delivery is executed with the environment in mind.

While the substrate may not expand as much as some users expect, we found it to be a great choice for our reptiles. It’s suitable for a wide range of species, including geckos, tarantulas, iguanas, pythons, and other reptiles and amphibians.

Overall, we highly recommend the ReptiChip Premium Coconut Substrate for anyone looking for a high-quality, environmentally-friendly reptile substrate.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best snake bedding, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for to help you make the best decision:

Material

The type of material used for the bedding is an essential factor to consider. The most common materials used for snake bedding are aspen shavings, coconut coir, cypress mulch, and paper products. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to choose the one that best suits your snake’s needs.

Absorbency

Absorbency is another critical factor to consider when choosing snake bedding. The bedding should be able to absorb moisture and odor effectively and prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. The more absorbent the bedding, the less often you will need to change it.

Dust

Dust can be harmful to your snake’s respiratory system, so it is essential to choose a bedding that produces minimal dust. Some materials, such as aspen shavings, are known to produce more dust than others, such as coconut coir.

Size

The size of the bedding should be appropriate for the size of your snake’s enclosure. The bedding should be deep enough to allow your snake to burrow and hide comfortably.

Price

Price is also a crucial factor to consider when choosing snake bedding. While the cheapest option may seem appealing, it may not be the best choice for your snake’s health and well-being. It is essential to find a bedding that is both affordable and of good quality.

In summary, when choosing the best snake bedding, it is essential to consider the material, absorbency, dust, size, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose a bedding that will provide your snake with a safe and comfortable environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bedding for ball pythons?

The best bedding for ball pythons is a substrate that can maintain humidity levels between 50-60%, such as coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or cypress mulch. Ball pythons also prefer a substrate that can hold its shape, so avoid using loose materials like sand or gravel.

How often should you change snake bedding?

It is recommended to change snake bedding at least once a month, or more frequently if the enclosure becomes dirty or the substrate becomes too wet. Removing feces and urine as soon as possible can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Is aspen bedding a good choice for snakes?

Aspen bedding is a popular choice for snakes, especially those that prefer a drier environment. It is absorbent, easy to clean, and can be used for a variety of snake species. However, it may not be the best choice for snakes that require higher humidity levels.

What are the benefits of using cypress mulch as snake bedding?

Cypress mulch is a natural substrate that can help maintain humidity levels and provide a comfortable environment for snakes. It is also resistant to mold and fungus, making it a good choice for high humidity enclosures.

What is the best substrate for snakes in high humidity environments?

For high humidity environments, we recommend using coconut fiber or sphagnum moss as snake bedding. These substrates can hold moisture well and help prevent dehydration in snakes.

Do snakes require bedding in their enclosure?

Yes, snakes require bedding in their enclosure to provide a comfortable and natural environment. Bedding can also help regulate humidity levels and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.