Best Bedding For Ball Pythons (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best bedding for your ball python, you may be overwhelmed with the many options available. Choosing the right bedding is essential to create a comfortable and healthy environment for your pet. Improper bedding can lead to respiratory infections, skin irritation and even death.
When it comes to selecting the best bedding for your ball python, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you need to ensure that the bedding is non-toxic and safe for your pet snake. Secondly, the bedding should be easy to clean and low maintenance. Lastly, you should choose a substrate that can hold humidity and provide a good grip for your snake.
Some of the most popular bedding options for ball pythons include aspen shavings, coconut coir, paper products, and reptile carpet. Each of these options comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and your snake's needs.
Are you unsure about which bedding to choose for your ball python? Would you like to know more about the advantages and disadvantages of each option? Or perhaps you’re wondering how to create the perfect habitat for your pet? Keep reading to find out all you need to know about the best bedding for ball pythons.
10 Best Bedding For Ball Pythons
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
It is ideal as bedding for reptiles in tropical environments due to its premium cypress material.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
This product is ideal for use as a bedding substrate, climbing wall carpet, and terrarium liner for hermit crabs and reptiles.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
It is an ideal substrate for reptiles such as snakes, tortoises, geckos, frogs, or lizards in their terrarium tanks.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
This product is ideal for creating a comfortable bedding in terrarium tanks for various reptile species.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
It is an ideal natural substrate for creating a realistic habitat for reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
It is ideal as a substrate bedding for reptiles such as ball pythons, snakes, tortoises, geckos, frogs, and lizard terrarium tanks.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
This product is ideal for use as bedding substrate in a desert-like terrarium environment for reptiles.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
This product is ideal for creating comfortable and safe bedding for reptiles such as bearded dragons, snakes, lizards, and tortoises.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
Ideal substrate bedding for a variety of reptiles and amphibians including ball pythons, snakes, tortoises, geckos, frogs, and lizards.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal bedding for reptiles and arachnids due to its loose coconut fiber composition that provides a natural habitat.
|
|
1. Fluker's Premium Tropical Cypress Bedding For Reptile, 10 Quart, Brown
Looking for a high-quality substrate for your terrarium? Look no further than this premium tropical cypress substrate, perfect for all terrariums. This substrate comes highly recommended by breeders, ensuring that you are getting a product that has been tested and approved by experts in the field.
This substrate is made from only the finest tropical cypress, ensuring that it is of the highest quality and will provide the ideal environment for your plants and animals. The substrate is designed to promote healthy growth and development, providing the perfect balance of moisture and air circulation to create a comfortable and natural environment.
In addition to being highly effective, this premium tropical cypress substrate is also incredibly easy to use. Simply add it to your terrarium and watch as it creates the perfect environment for your plants and animals to thrive. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a convenient choice for busy pet owners.
So if you're looking for a top-quality substrate for your terrarium, look no further than this premium tropical cypress option. With its breeder recommended status and exceptional quality, you can be confident that you are getting a product that will provide the ideal environment for your plants and animals to thrive.
2. Reptile Climbing Mat & Bedding Substrate Combo
The Coco Fiber Mat for Geckos by SunGrow is a fantastic product that can help maintain an ideal humidity level for your gecko terrarium. It is made entirely from raw coconut husk material, and it creates a humid environment that is essential for your pets. Not only does it maintain a healthy surrounding, but it can also absorb foul odors and break down your pet's excretions.
This mat is not only perfect for the bottom of your pet's enclosure but also for their walls. Measuring 10" x 13", you can cut and customize its size to create a climbing wall carpet for your crabitat. Your hermit crabs will have a more enjoyable and exciting home, making them feel more comfortable and happy.
The Coco Fiber Mat encourages your pets' natural instincts, such as crawling, climbing, and resting. It provides them with a taste of their native habitat and helps them feel more at home. This mat supports their overall ability to move instinctively without feeling deprived.
Using and maintaining this terrarium mat is incredibly easy. To use, simply unroll and place it on your terrarium's bottom, and let your pet enjoy all the benefits of our coco fiber mat. Although it requires maintenance now and then, it is not complicated. To clean, carefully remove it from your terrarium, shake off the dirt, rinse with cold, running water, hang it up to dry, and place it back.
SunGrow Coco fiber mat is an excellent product that is durable and made to last. Coconut fiber is a popular option for pet beds because it offers a variety of beneficial attributes. It can withstand repeated use and frequent washing, making it a cost-saving and wise choice for pet owners. With this mat, your pets can enjoy good bedding for an extended period, making their enclosure a more comfortable and enjoyable place to be.
3. Coconut Bedding For Reptile Tanks.
Invest in a premium reptile substrate that is suitable for all reptile species with ReptiChip. This product is specially designed to cater to dry/arid reptile species, but it can also be used for temperate or tropical animals when mixed with water.
This substrate is the cleanest option available on the market. It is sorted and refined in the United States, ensuring that the product is free of dust and debris. The loose chip bedding is ready to use, and it expands upon the addition of water, increasing the humidity of your reptile's habitat.
ReptiChip is an eco-friendly choice for reptile owners as it is 100% organic, safe, and sustainable. The company deeply respects the environment, and through extensive research, they have found and utilized only the best sources of high-quality coconut husk in the world. They take great measures to ensure that all processing, packaging, and delivery of their product is executed with the environment in mind.
Buy with confidence as ReptiChip backs all their products with a risk-free money-back guarantee. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, they will work quickly to issue a replacement or full refund, hassle-free. The company values their customers and their animals and ensures their utmost satisfaction.
ReptiChip is suitable for a wide range of reptiles and amphibians, including geckos, tarantulas, iguanas, ball pythons, and many others. This invertebrate bedding is ready to use out of the bag for arid species, and it can also be moistened with water for tropical species.
4. Coconut Bed For Reptile Terrariums
Invest in a premium reptile substrate that is suitable for all reptile species with ReptiChip. This loose chip bedding is versatile and can be used out of the bag for dry/arid reptile species or moistened with water for temperate or tropical animals.
ReptiChip takes pride in providing the cleanest reptile substrate available on the market. The product is sorted and refined in the United States, ensuring that it is free of dust and debris commonly found in other substrates. This bedding is ready to use, and adding water will expand the chips and increase humidity to create a comfortable environment for your reptile.
As an eco-friendly choice, ReptiChip products are 100% organic, safe, and sustainable. The company deeply respects the environment and has conducted extensive research to find and utilize only the best sources of the highest quality coconut husk in the world. ReptiChip takes great measures to ensure that all processing, packaging, and delivery is executed with the environment in mind, making it a responsible choice for reptile bedding.
Buy with confidence as ReptiChip backs all their products with a risk-free, money-back guarantee. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, the company will work quickly to issue a replacement or full refund, hassle-free. Customers and their animals are of utmost importance to ReptiChip, and the company stands behind their quality products.
ReptiChip is suitable for a range of reptiles and amphibians, including geckos, tarantulas, iguanas, pythons, and more. This substrate is ready to use out of the bag for arid species and can be moistened with water for tropical species. With ReptiChip, you can provide a comfortable and safe environment for your reptile while being environmentally responsible.
5. Exo Terra Forest Bark, Natural Terrarium Substrate, 8 Quarts, Pt2752
Introducing the 100% natural fir bark reptile terrarium substrate, the perfect solution for maintaining optimal air humidity levels for your humidity-loving reptiles. This substrate is hygroscopic, meaning that it readily absorbs and releases moisture, allowing for consistent levels of air humidity.
Not only does this substrate help with humidity control, it also promotes natural digging and burrowing behavior in your reptiles. By simulating their natural habitat, this substrate encourages your pets to engage in their natural behaviors, promoting their overall health and wellbeing.
This 8-quart bag of natural reptile terrarium substrate is an excellent choice for those who want a natural and safe option for their pets. It contains no artificial additives or chemicals, ensuring the safety and health of your reptile friends.
In addition to its natural benefits, this substrate is also easy to use. Simply add it to your reptile's terrarium and enjoy the benefits of a natural and healthy environment for your pets.
6. Coconut Chip Bedding For Reptile Tanks
Invest in a premium reptile substrate that is suitable for all reptile species with ReptiChip's BabiChip bedding. This substrate can be used straight out of the bag for dry or arid reptile species or simply add water for temperate or tropical animals.
One of the great features of this product is that it is the cleanest reptile substrate available in the market. Sorted and refined in the United States, it is free from dust, fiber, and debris that can cause harm to your reptile's health. BabiChip bedding is ready to use, and adding water will increase humidity and expansion.
ReptiChip is an environmentally conscious brand that offers 100% organic, safe, and sustainable products. The company takes pride in utilizing only the best sources of the highest quality coconut husk, and they make sure that all processing, packaging, and delivery are executed with the environment in mind. Choosing this product is not only good for your reptile but also for the planet.
If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, ReptiChip stands behind their product and offers a risk-free, money-back guarantee. They are committed to ensuring that their customers and their animals are happy with their purchase, and they will work quickly to issue a replacement or full refund if needed.
Investing in ReptiChip's BabiChip bedding is a wise choice for any reptile owner who desires a high-quality and eco-friendly substrate for their pets.
7. Zilla Reptile Terrarium Bedding Substrate Desert Blend Walnut, 10-Qt.
The ground English Walnut shells are a natural and eco-friendly option to create an attractive desert environment for reptiles. The shells are 100% natural and replicate the natural habitats of reptiles.
Unlike sand, the Walnut shells will not scratch the glass and provide excellent heat-conducting properties, making them an ideal choice for reptile enclosures. The Walnut shells also stimulate natural digging and burrowing behavior, which is essential for reptile health.
It is recommended to have a bedding depth of 1 to 2 inches in the enclosure, and the bedding should be removed and replaced monthly to maintain a clean and healthy environment for the reptiles.
These ground Walnut shells are particularly suitable for desert-dwelling reptiles such as adult bearded dragons, monitors, desert skinks, and uromastyx. Their natural and organic composition makes them a safe and reliable option for reptile owners who want to provide their pets with a comfortable and healthy habitat.
8. Reptile Substrate Mat – Grey
The reptile mat is a must-have for reptile owners who want to provide a safe and comfortable environment for their pets. Made of high-density tech fiber material, this mat is designed to be durable and soft, making it perfect for reptiles such as tortoises, bearded dragons, lizard snakes, chameleons, and more.
One of the key features of this reptile mat is its ability to protect reptiles from getting wet and scraped, keeping them safe and comfortable. Additionally, the mat can be used with a terrarium carpet to further enhance the comfort of your pet.
The reptile mat can be easily cut to fit any glass container that measures within 47×23.6 inches, allowing you to customize the size and shape of the carpet to your preference. Whether you need a rectangle, circle, or square shape, this mat can be easily cut to fit.
Cleaning the reptile mat is a breeze. Simply roll up the mat and shake off any loose pieces of garbage. The mat is washable and easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance option for pet owners.
With a size of 47" x 23.6"/120x60cm, the reptile mat is suitable for 10-75 gallon containers, providing ample space for your pet to move around. The mat is designed with high security in mind, ensuring that it is gentle on your pet and won't cause any harm.
9. Coconut Comfort – Reptile Bedding Solution
ReptiChip Coconut Substrate for reptiles is a must-have for professional breeders and serious hobbyists who want to create a healthy habitat for their pets. This substrate is ideal for ball pythons, leopard geckos, bearded dragons, and turtles living in terrariums.
The 72-quart compressed brick of ReptiChip Coconut Substrate is equivalent to 10 pounds of bedding. Just add water to expand and your pet snake substrate is ready to use. The superb humidity retention of this substrate helps form a tropical paradise for your pet.
One of the great benefits of ReptiChip Coco Substrate is its odor-absorbing properties. It encapsulates waste products, making your pet's bedding healthier and your home more pleasant-smelling.
The substrate is made of 100% organic coco chips that are highly sustainable and earth-friendly. ReptiChip Breeder Blocks have been meticulously cleaned to ensure a dust and dirt-free environment for your hermit crab or ball python snake bedding.
This versatile bioactive substrate can also be used as gecko or tortoise bedding. Its multifunctionality makes it an essential addition to your ball python tank accessories and hermit crab supplies.
10. Fluker's Loose Coconut Fiber Bedding For Reptiles And Arachnids, 10qt
If you're looking for the perfect substrate for your naturalistic terrarium, look no further than this product. Designed to maintain the proper humidity levels in your tropical habitat, this substrate is a must-have for any reptile owner.
Made from 100% organic materials, this substrate is safe for your pets and can be composted when it's time to replace it. Not only does it help to maintain the proper humidity levels in your terrarium, but it also naturally absorbs and breaks down odors and waste products.
This substrate is also an ideal medium for egg laying and incubation, making it the perfect choice for breeders and hobbyists alike. With its natural properties and ability to maintain the perfect environment for your pets, this substrate is a top choice for reptile owners everywhere.
Whether you're just starting out with your first reptile or you're a seasoned pro, this substrate is a must-have for any naturalistic terrarium. So why wait? Give your pets the perfect environment they deserve with this amazing product today!
Best Bedding For Ball Pythons FAQs
Can reptile carpet be used as bedding for ball pythons?
Yes, reptile carpet can be used as bedding for ball pythons. Reptile carpet is made from a durable and washable material that can be reused multiple times. It is a great option for ball python owners who want to avoid the messiness of substrate and are looking for an easy-to-clean bedding option. However, it is important to note that reptile carpet should be cleaned regularly to avoid any bacterial growth or hygiene issues. Additionally, ball pythons require a warm and humid environment, so it is important to maintain proper temperature and humidity levels in the enclosure. Overall, reptile carpet can be a good choice for ball python bedding, but it is important to ensure that the enclosure is properly maintained and cleaned to provide a comfortable and safe environment for the snake.
How often should bedding be changed for ball pythons?
For ball pythons, it is recommended to change their bedding at least once a month. However, the frequency of bedding changes may vary depending on several factors such as the size of the enclosure, the number of snakes, and the type of bedding used. If the enclosure is small or has multiple snakes, frequent cleaning and bedding changes may be necessary to maintain a healthy environment.
It is also important to keep an eye on the condition of the bedding. If it becomes soiled or wet, it should be changed immediately to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Additionally, if your ball python is shedding or has any health issues, it may be necessary to change the bedding more frequently to prevent any potential problems.
Overall, maintaining a clean and healthy environment for your ball python is crucial for their well-being. Regular bedding changes, along with proper feeding and care, can help ensure your snake stays healthy and happy.
How thick should bedding be for ball pythons?
When it comes to bedding for ball pythons, a thickness of 1-2 inches is recommended. Ball pythons are burrowing snakes and require substrate that allows them to bury themselves. However, it is important not to make the bedding too deep as it can prevent proper heat distribution and increase the risk of respiratory infections.
There are various types of bedding options available for ball pythons, including aspen shavings, coconut fiber, reptile carpet, and paper towels. It is important to avoid using pine or cedar shavings as they contain oils that can be harmful to snakes.
Additionally, it is important to spot clean the bedding regularly to remove any feces or uneaten food to prevent the buildup of bacteria. A full bedding change should be done every 1-3 months, depending on the size of the enclosure and the number of snakes.
Overall, providing a suitable bedding thickness for ball pythons is important for their health and well-being.
Is coconut fiber bedding a good option for ball pythons?
Coconut fiber bedding can be a good option for ball pythons, but it is important to keep in mind a few things. Coconut fiber, also known as coconut coir, is a natural and affordable substrate that can help simulate a ball python's natural habitat. It is also highly absorbent and can hold humidity well, which is important since ball pythons need a humid environment to thrive.
However, it is important to make sure the coconut fiber is not too dusty, as this can cause respiratory issues for your snake. Additionally, some ball pythons may ingest the bedding while feeding, which can cause impaction if the fibers are too long or stringy.
Overall, coconut fiber can be a good option for ball pythons as long as it is of good quality and used appropriately. It is always important to do research and consult with a veterinarian or experienced reptile keeper before making any changes to your pet's habitat.
Is it safe to use pine or cedar bedding for ball pythons?
Using pine or cedar bedding for ball pythons is not recommended and can be harmful to their health. These types of bedding contain high levels of aromatic oils that can cause respiratory irritation and even liver damage to snakes. Pine and cedar also have a high level of dust, which can further aggravate a snake's respiratory system.
Instead, it's best to use substrates made from coconut coir, sphagnum moss, or paper-based products for ball pythons. These substrates are safe, non-toxic, and provide a naturalistic environment for your pet snake. Additionally, they are easy to clean and maintain, which is important for maintaining the health and hygiene of your ball python's enclosure.
In summary, it's crucial to avoid using pine or cedar bedding for ball pythons and instead opt for safe and appropriate substrates that are beneficial to their health.
Should bedding be moistened for ball pythons?
No, bedding should not be moistened for ball pythons. In fact, it is recommended to keep the bedding dry to prevent respiratory problems and other health issues. Ball pythons are native to dry savannas and grasslands in Africa, so they are adapted to living in dry environments. Moist bedding can create a humid environment that may lead to bacterial and fungal growth, which can cause respiratory infections and other health problems for ball pythons. Additionally, moist bedding can also lead to skin problems like blisters and scale rot. It is important to provide a water dish in the enclosure for ball pythons to hydrate themselves, but the bedding should be kept dry to mimic their natural habitat.
What are the pros and cons of using newspaper as bedding for ball pythons?
Using newspaper as bedding for ball pythons has both advantages and disadvantages. One of the biggest advantages is that it is readily available and inexpensive. It is also easy to clean and can be replaced frequently, which reduces the risk of bacteria buildup and potential health issues for the snake. Additionally, newspaper does not have any sharp or rough edges that could injure the snake.
On the other hand, newspaper does not provide much in terms of enrichment or stimulation for the snake. It is also not very visually appealing and may not be aesthetically pleasing in a display enclosure. In addition, it may not retain heat or moisture as well as other bedding options, which could be problematic for maintaining proper humidity levels in the enclosure.
Overall, using newspaper as bedding for ball pythons can be a good option for those on a budget or for temporary situations. However, it may not be the best choice for long-term use or for owners looking to provide a more naturalistic environment for their snakes.
What are the signs that bedding needs to be changed for ball pythons?
As a ball python owner, it is important to keep a close eye on your pet's bedding to ensure that it is clean and safe. There are several signs that indicate when it's time to change your ball python's bedding. One of the most obvious signs is when the bedding becomes visibly soiled or has a strong odor. This can be a result of your snake's waste or uneaten food. Another indication that the bedding needs to be changed is when it becomes damp or moldy. This can be a result of humidity or spills in the enclosure. Additionally, if your ball python is shedding, you may need to change the bedding more frequently as the old skin can stick to the bedding and cause hygiene issues. It is recommended to spot-clean the enclosure regularly and change the bedding every 4-6 weeks to maintain a healthy and comfortable environment for your ball python.
What is the best way to clean and disinfect bedding for ball pythons?
The best way to clean and disinfect bedding for ball pythons is to first remove all the old bedding, feces, and any uneaten food. Then, wash the bedding in hot water and detergent to remove any remaining debris and bacteria. After washing, rinse the bedding thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
Next, disinfect the bedding by soaking it in a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water for at least 30 minutes. Rinse the bedding thoroughly with water after disinfecting to remove any remaining bleach solution.
It's important to let the bedding dry completely before placing it back in the enclosure. If possible, hang it outside to air dry in the sun.
Additionally, it's important to regularly spot clean the bedding by removing any feces or uneaten food as soon as possible to prevent the growth of bacteria. This will help keep your ball python healthy and comfortable in their enclosure.
What type of bedding is recommended for ball pythons?
The ideal bedding for ball pythons is a substrate that mimics their natural habitat. Cypress mulch, coconut fiber, and aspen shavings are all good options for bedding. Avoid using substrates made of cedar or pine as they contain oils that can be harmful to ball pythons. The bedding should be at least two inches deep to provide insulation and comfort for the snake. It's important to keep the bedding clean and dry to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Ball pythons also require a hide box filled with substrate in which they can retreat and feel secure. The hide box should be large enough for the snake to comfortably fit inside and have a small entrance to provide a sense of security. Overall, providing proper bedding is an important aspect of ball python care and can contribute to their overall health and well-being.
