- Size: 113L
- 14 Pounds
- 25 x 16.5 x 8.5 inches
- Brand Zoo Med
- Material Cotton
- Item Weight 0.3 Kilograms
- Brand Zoo Med
- Size: 8 qt
- 4.25 Pounds
- Size: 8 Quart
- 0.32 Ounces
- TopDawg Pet Supply
- Brand: Zoo Med
- 7.94 Pounds
- Zoo Med Laboratories
Choose the Best Bedding Substrates for Bearded Dragon
Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Bedding Substrates for Bearded Dragons
6 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!
A bearded dragon’s enclosure should be furnished with a substrate to provide a surface for the dragon to walk and lie on. There are many different types of substrates available, but not all of them are suitable for bearded dragons.
In this guide, we will discuss the best bedding substrates for bearded dragons and provide reviews of some popular products. We will also provide some useful tips on how to choose the right substrate for your dragon’s enclosure.
Small Pet Select Aspen Bedding
This all natural bedding is made from wood shavings from logs, so you can rest assured that it’s free of any potentially dangerous additives. Plus, it’s recyclable and compostable, so it’s good for the environment. And if for some reason you’re not completely satisfied, we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Aspen bedding is a great choice for small pets. It is soft and comfortable, and leaves a small film of dust that is easy to clean up. However, be aware that it has a very bad rubber-like odor that can be off-putting to some people. [1]
Zoo Med Forest Floor Bedding, 8.8 Litre
Made from 100% natural cypress mulch, this green “product” is an excellent choice for snakes, lizards, land turtles, tortoises, frogs, toads, salamanders, and tarantulas. It’s also very absorbent, so it helps keep your terrarium clean and dry.
Plus, it looks great and gives your pets a naturalistic environment to live in. [2]
Zoo Med Repti Bark Natural Reptile BedDig for Reptiles
This unique product is made from 100% natural materials and is perfectly safe for your reptiles to dig and burrow in. Not only is it absorbent and long lasting, but it’s also reusable – so you can feel good about making a green choice for your pet’s bedding. Give your reptile the gift of a natural habitat with Zoo Med Repti Bark.
However, we must warn you that the packaging can smell moldy and musty. But don’t let that deter you from giving your reptilian friend the best possible home! [3]
Fluker Labs Repta-Bark All Natural Bedding
This all-natural product is made from real tree bark and is designed to prevent excessive moisture and absorb waste. It’s the perfect bedding for high humidity loving reptiles and will help keep your pet’s habitat clean and healthy.
Made in the USA, Repti Bark is a safe and long-lasting way to provide your reptile with a comfortable place to call home.
Just be aware that it cannot be boil-sanitized or fed to wood-eating species. [4]
Zoo Med ReptiFresh Odor Eliminating Substrate, Blacks & Grays, 8 lb
Looking for a new substrate for your reptile? Look no further than Zoo Med ReptiFresh Odor Eliminating Substrate!
This substrate is perfect for reptiles who are sensitive to dust, as it is designed to be low-dust and not absorb odors. Plus, the black and gray colors will look great in any reptile enclosure! [5]
Buyer’s Guide
Bearded Dragon Substrate
The best substrates for bearded dragons are ones that are safe, easy to clean, and provide a comfortable environment for your pet.
There are a few things to consider when choosing a substrate for your bearded dragon.
- The first is safety. Bearded dragons are susceptible to impaction, which can occur when they ingest small particles of substrate. Impaction can be fatal, so it is important to choose a substrate that is not easily swallowed.
- The second thing to consider is ease of cleaning. Bearded dragons are messy eaters and their enclosure will need to be cleaned frequently. Choose a substrate that is easy to remove and replace so that you can keep your dragon’s home clean and sanitary.
- Finally, consider your bearded dragon’s comfort. Some substrates can be irritating to your reptile’s skin or cause problems with their respiratory system. Choose a substrate that is soft and comfortable for your pet to walk on. [6]
Bearded Dragon Substrate
Newspaper or Paper Towels
The most basic bearded dragon substrate is newspaper or paper towels. This method is easy, low-cost, and quick to set up. You can find these materials almost anywhere, making them a great option for first-time reptile owners. Newspaper and paper towels are also easy to clean and replace when necessary.
There are a few downsides to using newspaper or paper towels as a substrate, however. First, they can be abrasive on your dragon’s delicate skin. Second, they do not hold heat well, so you may need to use an additional heat source if your bearded dragon needs a warm environment.
If you decide to use newspaper or paper towels as a substrate, be sure to change them out regularly and watch for signs of skin irritation.
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles can be found at most home improvement stores and come in a variety of colors and sizes. You will need to seal the porous tile with a non-toxic epoxy or silicone before using it as a substrate. Bearded dragons love to bask on the cool tile and it provides a great place for them to dig and burrow.
Ceramic tiles are easy to clean and disinfect, but they can be slippery for your bearded dragon. You may need to roughen up the surface of the tile with sandpaper or an etching tool to help your beardie grip the tile better.
If you choose to use ceramic tiles, make sure they are sealed properly and that your bearded dragon has a good grip on them. Otherwise, they may slip and hurt themselves.
Reptile Carpet
Reptile carpet is a type of substrate made specifically for reptiles. It is usually made from recycled materials and is safe for your bearded dragon to live on. Reptile carpet has many benefits, including being easy to clean and providing a comfortable place for your bearded dragon to rest.
However, there are some drawbacks to using reptile carpet as a substrate. One of the biggest concerns is that it can be difficult to keep clean. If you do not clean it regularly, your bearded dragon may start to develop health problems. Additionally, reptile carpet can be expensive, and it may not last as long as other types of substrates.
If you decide to use reptile carpet as a substrate for your bearded dragon, be sure to clean it regularly and replace it when necessary.
Substrate You Should Not Use
Sand
Avoid using sand as a substrate for your bearded dragon. Sand can cause digestive impaction if your dragon ingests it while trying to eat their food. Some types of sand can also be harmful if inhaled.
There are some types of sand that are safe to use, such as calcium sand. However, it is still not the best substrate for your bearded dragon. Calcium sand can be expensive and is not necessary for your bearded dragon’s health.
If you decide to use sand as a substrate, make sure it is a type of sand that is safe for bearded dragons and that you do not use too much of it. A thin layer of sand is all that is needed.
Play Sand
If you decide to use play sand as a substrate for your bearded dragon, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- Not all play sands are created equal. The type of sand that you would use in a child’s sandbox is not the same type of sand that you should use for your bearded dragon.
- You need to make sure that the sand you use is dust-free.
There are a few brands of sand that are specifically marketed as being safe for bearded dragons, and these are generally a good choice. One popular brand is Zoo Med’s Repti Sand. This sand is made from calcium carbonate, which is safe for your bearded dragon to ingest.
You will need to provide your bearded dragon with a water dish. Your bearded dragon will not be able to get the moisture it needs from the sand alone, and it is important to make sure that it stays hydrated.
Overall, play sand can be a good substrate for your bearded dragon, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind. If you do decide to use play sand, make sure that you get a dust-free variety and that you provide your bearded dragon with a water dish.
Mulch
Mulch is an organic material that can be used as a substrate for bearded dragons. It is made from chopped up leaves, bark, and other plant matter. Mulch is relatively inexpensive and easy to find. It holds moisture well and provides good drainage. Bearded dragons can burrow in mulch, which they often enjoy doing.
Mulch is also easy to clean. You can either spot-clean it or remove all of the mulch and replace it with fresh mulch.
There are a few downsides to using mulch as a substrate. It can be messy, and it can mold if it gets too wet.
Mulch is also not very aesthetically pleasing. If you are looking for a substrate that looks nice, mulch is probably not the best option.
If you decide to use mulch as a substrate for your bearded dragon, make sure that it is free of chemicals and pesticides. You can usually find chemical-free mulch at garden centers or nurseries.
Some good mulches to use for bearded dragons include: cypress mulch, pine bark mulch, and cedar chips. [6]
Safe Substrates For Bearded Dragons
There are many different substrates that can be used for bearded dragons, but not all of them are safe. Some substrates can be harmful if ingested, while others can cause respiratory problems. The best substrate for a bearded dragon is one that is safe, easy to clean, and inexpensive.
One of the most popular substrates for bearded dragons is reptile carpet. Reptile carpet is a type of artificial turf that is specifically designed for reptiles. It is safe for bearded dragons to walk on and burrow in, and it can be easily cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.
Another popular substrate for bearded dragons is newspaper. Newspaper is safe for bearded dragons to walk on and burrow in, and it is also easy to clean. However, newspapers can be difficult to keep dry, so it is important to change them frequently.
Pine shavings and sand are two other substrates that can be used for bearded dragons. Pine shavings are safe for bearded dragons to walk on and burrow in, and they are also easy to clean. However, pine shavings can be difficult to keep dry, so it is important to change them frequently. Sand is safe for bearded dragons to walk on and burrow in, but it can be difficult to keep clean.
The best substrate for a bearded dragon is one that is safe, easy to clean, and inexpensive. Reptile carpet, newspaper, pine shavings, and sand are all substrates that meet these criteria.
Bearded dragons are native to Australia and live in a variety of habitats including deserts, grasslands, and forests.
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, meaning they eat both plants and animals. In the wild, their diet consists of insects, small mammals, and reptiles. In captivity, bearded dragons can be fed a variety of foods including vegetables, fruits, insects, and commercial bearded dragon food.
Bedding Maintenance & Replacement
The best substrates for bearded dragons are those that hold up well to wear and tear, are easy to replace, and don’t require a lot of maintenance. With that in mind, here are some tips on how to choose the best substrate for your bearded dragon:
- Avoid substrates made of natural materials like wood or bark, as these can harbor bacteria and fungi that can be harmful to your reptile.
- Steer clear of any substrate that contains chemicals or dyes, as these can be toxic to your bearded dragon.
- If you opt for a loose substrate, be sure to clean it out regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and fungi.
- When it comes time to replace your substrate, do so completely and clean out the enclosure thoroughly before adding fresh bedding. [7]
FAQ
What Is the Best Substrate to Use For a Bearded Dragon?
There are a few different types of substrates that can be used for bearded dragons, but the best substrate to use is one that is absorbent, easy to clean, and safe for your pet. Some of the most popular substrates for bearded dragons include newspaper, paper towels, and reptile carpet.
If you are looking for a more naturalistic substrate, there are a few different options that you can choose from. Some of the most popular naturalistic substrates include sand, soil, and bark.
It is important to remember that whatever type of substrate you choose, it should be safe for your pet and easy to clean.
What Kind of Flooring Should Bearded Dragons Have?
There are a few things to consider when deciding on the best flooring for your bearded dragon enclosure. The main factors to consider are safety, comfort, and aesthetics.
Safety is the most important factor to consider when choosing flooring for your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons are naturally curious creatures and will put anything they can find in their mouths. This means that the flooring you choose needs to be safe for your bearded dragon to ingest.
Comfort is also an important factor to consider when choosing flooring for your bearded dragon. Bearded dragons are desert creatures and prefer a warm, dry environment. The flooring you choose should provide a comfortable surface for your bearded dragon to bask on.
Aesthetics are also important when choosing flooring for your bearded dragon enclosure. Bearded dragons are visually stimulating creatures and their enclosure should be aesthetically pleasing to look at.
The best flooring for bearded dragons is tile or linoleum. These materials are safe for your bearded dragon to ingest and provide a comfortable, dry surface for your bearded dragon to bask on. Tile and linoleum are also easy to clean and look great in any enclosure.
The worst flooring for bearded dragons is carpet. Carpet is absorbent and can hold moisture, which can create a humid environment that is uncomfortable for your bearded dragon. Carpet is also difficult to clean and can harbor bacteria and parasites that can be harmful to your bearded dragon.
If you must use carpet in your bearded dragon enclosure, be sure to choose a low-pile variety that is easy to clean. Avoid using berber or shag carpet, as these varieties are difficult to clean and can hold moisture.
What Do You Put In the Bottom of a Bearded Dragon Cage?
The substrate is the material you put on the bottom of your bearded dragon’s enclosure. It can be anything from sand to paper towels, but there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing the best substrate for your beardie.
What should I put in my bearded dragon dig box?
There are many options available for what to put in your bearded dragon’s dig box, but not all of them are created equal.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when choosing a substrate for your bearded dragon’s dig box is that it should be safe for them to ingest.
Bearded dragons are notorious for eating their substrates, so you’ll want to avoid anything that could potentially cause them harm if ingested.
Sand is a natural substrate that many beardies love to dig in. It’s important to choose a sand that’s specifically designed for reptiles, as some sands can contain harmful chemicals or particles that could make your beardie sick.
One type of sand that’s safe for bearded dragons is calcium carbonate sand. This sand is soft and fine, making it perfect for your beardie to dig in. It’s also chemically inert, so you don’t have to worry about it causing any harm to your reptile friend.
If you’re looking for a substrate that’s both aesthetically pleasing and safe for your bearded dragon, consider using reptile carpet. Reptile carpet is made from soft, woven fabric that’s safe for your beardie to walk on and dig in.
It comes in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that fits your aesthetic. Reptile carpet is also easy to clean, so you won’t have to worry about it becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.
No matter what substrate you choose for your bearded dragon’s dig box, be sure to do your research to make sure it’s safe for them. With a little bit of planning, you can create a safe and fun environment for your reptile friend to enjoy.
What Kind of Bedding Do Bearded Dragons Need?
Bearded dragons come from Australia, where the climate is hot and dry. In their natural habitat, they would live on a diet of insects and plants. Today, however, many people keep bearded dragons as pets. As such, their diet and housing needs to be adapted to meet their specific needs.
One of the most important things to consider when caring for a bearded dragon is their bedding. Bearded dragons need a substrate that is safe, comfortable, and easy to clean. There are many different substrates on the market, so it can be difficult to know which one is best for your bearded dragon.
Is Sand or Carpet Better for Bearded Dragons?
The debate of what is the best substrate for bearded dragons has been going on for years. Some people swear by sand, while others prefer carpet or tile. There are pros and cons to each type of substrate, and ultimately it comes down to personal preference.
If you’re considering using sand as a substrate for your bearded dragon, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Sand can be dangerous for bearded dragons if they ingest it, as it can cause impaction. It’s also important to choose a sand that is fine and clean, as coarse sand can irritate your dragon’s skin.
Carpet or tile is a safer option for substrates, as there is no risk of impaction. However, these substrates can be more difficult to keep clean. Bearded dragons are messy eaters, and their food can easily get caught in the fibers of carpet or tile.
Ultimately, the best substrate for your bearded dragon is the one that you feel most comfortable with. If you’re concerned about safety, carpet or tile is the way to go.
If you’re more concerned about ease of cleaning, sand may be the better option. Whichever substrate you choose, make sure to do your research and provide your dragon with a safe and comfortable home.
How Often Should You Mist Your Bearded Dragon?
Bearded dragons come from dry, arid environments and as such do not require a lot of moisture. In fact, too much moisture can lead to health problems like respiratory infections. For this reason, you should only mist your bearded dragon once or twice a week. When you do mist, make sure to do it in the morning so that your dragon has time to dry off before nightfall.
If you live in a particularly dry climate, you may need to mist your bearded dragon more often. If you notice that your dragon is shedding more than usual or seems listless, these could be signs that he is not getting enough moisture and you should increase the frequency of your misting.
The best way to provide moisture for your bearded dragon is to offer him a shallow dish of water that he can drink from when he needs it. You can also add a humidity box to his enclosure, but make sure that it is only big enough for him to sit in and not crawl into.
Is Tile a Good Substrate For a Bearded Dragon?
No, tile is not a good substrate for bearded dragons. Bearded dragons need a substrate that will hold heat and help them regulate their body temperature. Tile does not hold heat well and can actually make your bearded dragon’s enclosure too cold.
Another reason why tile is not a good substrate for bearded dragons is because it can be slippery. Bearded dragons need a substrate that will give them traction so they can move around easily. If your bearded dragon’s enclosure has a tile floor, you will need to provide them with something to grip onto like rocks or branches.
The last reason why tile is not a good substrate for bearded dragons is because it can be hard on their feet. Bearded dragons walk on their toes and the hard surface of tile can hurt their feet over time. If you must use tile in your bearded dragon’s enclosure, make sure to cover it with something soft like carpet or towels.
Is Coconut Substrate Good for Bearded Dragons?
Coconut substrate is not typically recommended for bearded dragons as it can be harmful if ingested. Coconut substrate can also harbor bacteria and mold which can be harmful to your beardie. If you do choose to use coconut substrate, make sure it is in a dish and not on the ground of the enclosure so your beardie cannot ingest it.
Can You Use Fake Grass for Bearded Dragons?
The short answer is no, you should not use fake grass for bearded dragons. Bearded dragons are insectivores, meaning that their diet consists mostly of insects. If your bearded dragon were to ingest any part of the fake grass, they could get very sick. In addition, fake grass can harbor bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that could make your bearded dragon ill.
It is important to choose a substrate that is safe for your bearded dragon and that will not pose any health risks. There are many different types of substrates available on the market, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase.
Are Sand Mats Safe For Bearded Dragons?
Yes, sand mats are safe for bearded dragons as long as you choose the right product. Some companies sell sand mats that are made with synthetic materials and dyes that can be harmful to your pet. Be sure to do your research and buy a mat from a reputable company.
Can You Put Moss in a Bearded Dragon Tank?
Moss is a great substrate for bearded dragons! It holds moisture well, which is perfect for keeping your dragon’s skin hydrated. Moss also provides a naturalistic look to your tank and can be used to create hiding spots and basking areas. Be sure to choose an organic, pesticide-free moss for your bearded dragon’s safety.
Sphagnum moss is a great option for bearded dragons. It is soft and absorbent, making it perfect for keeping your dragon’s skin moist. Sphagnum moss also has a naturalistic look that will complement your bearded dragon’s habitat. Be sure to choose an organic, pesticide-free sphagnum moss for your bearded dragon’s safety.
Useful Video: Best & Worst Substrates for Bearded Dragons!
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a lot of things to consider when choosing the best substrate for your bearded dragon. In the end, it really comes down to personal preference and what you think will make your dragon the happiest.
Hopefully, this guide has given you some useful information to help you make an informed decision. Thank you for reading!
References:
- https://www.amazon.com/Small-Pet-Select-Jumbo-Bedding/dp/B0725L68KB
- https://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-Forest-Floor-Bedding/dp/B001OVF6Z8
- https://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-Reptile-Bedding-Quarts/dp/B0010OTJIY
- https://www.amazon.com/Flukers-SFK36005-Repta-Bark-Natural-Bedding/dp/B004LODC4W
- https://www.amazon.com/Zoo-Med-ReptiFresh-Eliminating-Substrate/dp/B003I5QRII
- https://www.morereptiles.com/bearded-dragon-substrate/
- https://www.terrariumquest.com/bearded-dragon/best-substrate/