Back to Nature Substrate Review

When keeping reptiles, it can be difficult to find a substrate that suits your animals needs and meets your standards. I have used many different types of bedding including: newspaper, aspen and kitchen towels but all of which have flaws.

• Newspaper does not soak up liquids well and leaves humidity high if there is a spillage. Furthermore newspaper is not aesthetically pleasing, although it retains heat well and is cheap.


• Aspen can be quite dusty and messy, although it soaks up liquids moderately well. The biggest problem with using aspen is the risk of impaction if your animals are fed in the enclosure. 


• Kitchen towels are good for animals like geckos and are very economical. They soak up moisture well depending on the amount of layers that you use. Heating works well with this type of bedding. It's not aesthetically pleasing and will need replaced in multiple sheets when it is soiled.

Recently I was recommended a new bedding to try by my local reptile shop called Back to Nature Animal Bedding. Made from recycled materials and biodegradable, it is made of small paper pellets that are grey in colour. It is designed to minimise odour and absorb liquids whilst retaining heat and humidity. The product's packaging is made of paper and reduces carbon footprint. It can also be used for small animals and not just reptiles.

Snowy enjoying her new bedding!

After using the product I am very happy with it as it does what it says on the packet. There is less risk of impaction as the product is biodegradable. It is more economical than aspen and other wood chip beddings. It's easy on the eye and almost looks like small stones. What has sold me most is the fact that it is easy to spot when the reptile has defecated, as it clumps together, making the clean up simple. Due to the dark colour it makes brighter morphs stand out and appear even more attractive than other bedding. I highly recommend giving it a try. To read more click here