One of the primary challenges to create an enclosure for a bearded dragon is deciding on the right substrate.
The most suitable Bearded Dragon substrate should be dry and should not contain a lot of humidity. This is due to them being from the deserts of Australia.
First-time keepers usually select loose substrates, such as wood shavings or sand. This is a huge mistake and can lead to serious health problems, such as impaction.
Luckily , there is a vast selection of affordable and safe substrates.
Continue reading to find out which types of substrates work best for the Bearded Dragon and which ones to avoid.
Different types of Bearded Dragon Substrate
The following are seven types of substrates to be used by Bearded Dragons:
- Reptile carpet, lino fake grass, or Astroturf.
- Paper towels or newspapers.
- Tiles made of ceramic or slate.
- Rubber, shelf liner.
- Alfalfa pellets.
- Wood chips.
- Sand (e.g. play sand, calcium sand).
The ideal Bearded Dragon substrate is contingent on the budget you have and the amount of effort you’d like to devote to maintaining it. If you are not worried about regular maintenance, then reptile carpet is an excellent option.
Low-maintenance substrates like tiles and paper towels are great choices, too.
The majority of these substrates are available in an animal or hardware retailer. If you’re buying from an hardware store, make sure that the substrate is free of harmful chemicals that can cause harm to your pet lizard.
It is not recommended to work with loose substrates such as wood shavings or sand.
The loose substrates are available in large quantities and are inexpensive and easy to spot clean. However, they may create impaction in the event of accidental consumption. Impaction is a grave health risk and is highest for baby bearded dragons..
7 Top Substrates to Use for Bearded Dragons
The most effective material is the one which is secure affordable, attractive, as well as easy to wash.
The lack of humidity and the high demands on heat for bearded dragons as well as other desert-dwelling creatures implies that their substrates cannot retain humidity.
Each substrate comes with its own pros and pros and.
For instance, tiles are easy to clean and have no chance of damage, however they aren’t so attractive like reptile carpet. Fake grass is attractive because of its natural appearance. However, it can be difficult to clean , and the cracks in the plastic could hold bacteria if not cleaned.
Below we have listed the rankings for the each Bearded Dragon substrate based on quality, safety, and appearance.
1. Reptile Carpet
Reptile carpet is a great substrate. It is a good compromise between ease of cleaning, safety and natural look.
Pros
- Simple to install, safe and won’t be prone to warping or overheating, and offers an array of designs to select from.
Cons
- Cleaning carpets is extremely laborious and time-consuming.
Reptile carpet is type of plastic or felt-based carpet designed intended for reptiles’ terrariums.
It is patterned or plain and comes in green, brown or the tan. Some of the more costly carpets have a texture made of rocks or grass to give an authentic look.
If you are asked what substrate to choose in my Bearded Dragon, we always suggest reptile carpet.
Reptile carpets are the ideal carpet for bearded dragons of every age.
Many keepers choose reptile carpets due to its subdued and natural look.
Reptile carpets last for a long time and is well-protected against the wear and tear of temperatures and lizard activity.
The drawback of this type of substrate is that it must be removed from the enclosure in order to be cleaned. It takes a long time to dry completely. That means you’ll have to purchase two carpets and switch them out during cleaning.
Alternatives to this substrate that are less expensive include fake grass.
Lino can be bought in any store that sells hardware, and it is easy to cut and set up. Like reptile carpets, lino is simple to clean with an ordinary washcloth. However, it isn’t able to cope with fluctuations in temperature and can crack and become brittle.
Fake grass is an appealing substrate because it appears like reptile carpet.
The problem is that fake grass is difficult to keep clean, and the uneven surface may hold in bacteria. Artificial grass “carpets” have tiny plastic loops that can hold your bear’s claws or toes.
It is also not recommended to plant real grass because it can be difficult to keep a low moisture in a tank that is planted.
Yearly Cost: $14 to $40 for two carpets.
2. Newspapers or paper Towels
Pros
- A fantastic low-cost substrate that is low-cost ( especially for younger bears) It is easily replaced and does not cause abrasion.
Cons
- The material is not reuseable and is not attractive.
Newspapers and paper towels make an excellent , low-cost substrate for an Bearded Dragon tank.
Both substrates offer even coverage, and do not shrink under heat, and will not impact the humidity of your tank.
They are particularly beneficial for juveniles and hatchlings with a weight that is not strong enough to tear the paper.
Adult bearded dragons can accidentally cut through the substrate when walking or climbing. However, this issue can be corrected by weighing the substrate by using decors to avoid destruction and the formation of a bunch.
Its low cost and easy replacement is more than enough to make up for its thinness.
Paper towels and newspapers are very absorbent. They are therefore required cleaning more frequently in comparison to the other types of substrate. They are also less sustainable than permanent substrates like tiles.
The biggest drawback of using newspaper as a substrate is that it gives an fake appearance.
For those looking to create a natural environment for their dragon, this isn’t the ideal choice.
However , if you don’t dislike the appearance of the paper and would like to save money, then paper is the perfect choice.
annual cost: $10.
3. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are an eco-friendly substrate that provide your beardie’s terrarium with a natural look.
Pros
- Natural appearance, safe and easy to maintain.
Cons
- It is difficult to install and was not intended for reptiles.
Ceramic tiles are an excellent option for those looking for an appealing, affordable and sustainable substrate.
In contrast to reptile carpet tiles are able to be spot-clean and disinfected by wiping them down with an abrasive.
They also don’t take in moisture and won’t shrink when wet.
Ceramic can also be a very good conductor of heat, so this material will not increase or diminish the power of an under-tank heating system.
This material has virtually every positive quality.
The only drawback is the difficulty to cut and position ceramic tiles according to the tank’s specifications.
Tiles typically come in twelve” x 12″ or 3″ x 6″ so it is necessary to cut them to be sized correctly. If you don’t have the right tools, it can be difficult to cut ceramic efficiently and safe.
An alternative that is very similar to ceramic tiles is slate.
It is an extremely fine-grained stone that is frequently utilized in landscaping, but can fit nicely in the interior reptile aquarium. It has a more natural texture and natural-looking than ceramic, but it is more costly.
All Price: $5 to $20 for a tank of 120-gallon capacity.
4. Rubber Shelf Liner
Pros
- A durable and affordable substrate that is durable and affordable.
Cons
- The material can crack or shrink when exposed to heat. Does not keep temperatures stable if placed on top of an under-tank heater.
The shelf liner made of rubber is far more durable than newspapers or paper towels.
Shelf Liners are a popular substrate you can find at home goods and hardware stores. They are different in appearance and the thickness.
Thinner mats can be cut with scissors , and typically are in rolls big enough to accommodate several modifications.
The most significant issue when using rubber liners for the bearded dragon’s substrate is that they’re great thermal insulators but are not great conductors.
This means that they take longer to cool down and heat down as compared to other substrates. This makes it difficult to maintain the proper range of temperature that your dragon requires to be healthy.
Liners made of thinner rubber can shrink or crack if they are exposed to extreme heat.
If you decide to use shelf liner, select a mat made of solid material. Perforated mats are hard to clean.
To avoid the growth of bacteria, it is recommended to change the substrate every two weeks since it is able to take in waste over the course of time.
Annual Cost: $10 per roll.
5. Alfalfa Pellets
Pros
- It is possible to purchase in bulk and is simple to replace.
Cons
- There is a risk of impaction, and rapidly turns damp.
Alfalfa pellets are a great loose substrate for bearded dragons.
Typically, the substrate is utilized to feed horses and rabbits. It can also be used as a layering material for bearded dragons as well as other pets of lizards.
In the event that the dragon (armadillo lizard) consumes these pellets, they will be able to digest them safely. However, there is an occasional risk of intestinal obstruction.
Due to the possibility of impaction, We do not suggest sand, wood chips or alfalfa pellets..
Alfalfa pellets don’t absorb much moisture . Therefore, should they get wet, they will decompose quickly and begin to grow mold. Due to this, they need to be cleaned regularly.
There are baggies of pellets made from alfalfa available at pet stores, but purchasing enough to fill a 120-gallon tank could cost a lot.
Yearly Cost: $120 for 120 gallon tank.
6. Bark, wood chips or Chips or Bark
Pros
- Great appearance, affordable and simple to clean.
Cons
- A risk of impaction and it absorbs water.
Bark and wood chips are another type of substrate that can carry the danger of impaction.
Large adults may be housed on orchid bark , provided that any sharp or small fragments of it are removed. Cedar and pine shavings are not recommended, since they are contaminated with oils that can be harmful to reptiles.
Baby and young children shouldn’t be allowed to remain on this type of substrate. They’re likely to consume the shavings, and splinters may cause irritation to their skin.
Wood chips are famous as a way of absorbing moisture from air, thereby reducing the total tank’s humidity. Bearded dragons require a low humidity in the air but insufficient humidity can cause respiratory diseases or the retention of shed.
Wood pellets and bark are beautiful in a tank. It is your choice whether the possibility from impaction outweighs the aesthetic attraction.
If you choose to utilize this substrate, you will require in order to feed your dragon via containers or dishes outside of the tank to prevent accidental consumption.
Yearly Cost: $60 for 120 gallon tank.
7. Sand
Pros
- Natural appearance and extremely easy to clean.
Cons
- Risk of impaction high and the product is not reusable.
Sand is sadly the most well-known bearded dragon’s habitat.
Sand used in enclosures for bearded dragons originates from a popular myth. Many first-time pet owners believe that the sand that is sold in pet stores is exactly the similar to the sand they find that they would find in the natural environment.
Sand is typically advertised as ‘calcium sand or’reptile sand’ or even ‘play sand.’
In actuality, the deserts of scrub in which wild bearded dragons live in are composed of more compacted clay-like sand in comparison to the loose substrates sold in pet shops.
First-time keepers choose Sand substrates due to its natural look and its ease of cleaning.
Sand is simple to spot-clean using a scoop or sieve.
Unfortunately. Bears who eat sand in seeking calcium may suffer impaction. It’s also extremely dirty and can get into their water, food and even their eyes.
Beware of any sand used as substrate, specifically silica sand. It’s sharp-edged and sharp grains could cause harm to your dragon’s digestive tract, even if there is no impaction.
Yearly Cost: $60 for 120 gallon tank.
Comparison Table
| Substrate | Pros | Cons | Sort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reptile Carpet | Installation is simple, secure that will not be prone to warping or overheating, and offers many designs to pick from. | Cleaning can be very laborious and time-consuming. | 1 |
| Paper or newspaper Towels | A fantastic low-cost substrate that is low-cost ( especially for younger bears) and is easy to replace and not abrasive. | It is not recyclable and looks not attractive. | 2 |
| Ceramic Tiles | Natural appearance, safe and easy to maintain. | It is difficult to install and was not designed for reptiles. | 3 |
| The Rubber Shelf Liner | A durable and affordable substrate. | The material can crack or shrink when exposed to heat. It will not keep temperatures stable if placed in an under tank heater. | 4 |
| Alfalfa Pellets | The item can be purchased in bulk and is simple to replace. | The risk of impaction is low and can quickly turn moldy. | 5 |
| Wood Chips or Bark | It looks great, is cheap and easy to maintain. | There is a low risk of impaction, and absorbs water. | 6 |
| Sand | Natural appearance and extremely easy to clean. | Impaction is a high risk and cannot be used again. | 7 |
How often should you change the the Bearded Dragon’s substrate?
It is recommended that a Bearded Dragon’s substrate must be cleaned daily to prevent the growth of bacterial.
In addition to cleaning the tank Spot-cleaning is also an excellent way to keep tabs the health of your dragon’s digestive system. The feces of your dragon should be solid and brown with white urate. A strange feces pattern or absence of feces may be a sign that your lizard an illness.
Substrates should be cleaned thoroughly or completely replaced every two weeks.
Paper towels or newspaper this is as simple as removing any old layers and installing the new substrate.
Carpets made of reptiles should be cleaned hand-washed by using the hot tap and soap for dishes.
Substrates that are permanent (e.g. slate, ceramic tiles, or rubber) are to be sprayed with a safe reptile cleaning agent:
- A 1-3 oz./1 qt. mixed with bleach in diluted form and water.
- A mild, unscented dish soap.
- White vinegar.
Be sure to get rid of the Bearded Dragon from the enclosure before you change the substrate.
Check that your tank and substrate are clean and clean of soap prior to sending back your Beardie.
Do You Need Sand To Create Bearded Dragons?
No. In captivity , your Bearded Dragon can accidentally inhale Sand substrates while hunting or eating. In time, sand builds up and cause a blockage in his digestive tract, which could be fatal.
Dragons who are sick or young tend to consume the sand and cause impaction.
It is advised not to work with loose substrates, such as sand..
Summary
The ideal material for the Bearded Dragon is reptile carpet.
Carpets for reptiles can be found in every pet shop and is easily cut in size using scissors. The experience of purchasing two carpets makes it easy to change them out when cleaning.
They are also available in a variety of patterns and colors to match easily to your Bearded Dragon’s style.
Ceramic tiles can also be an excellent option, however it isn’t easy to cut and install!
Substrates that are loose (e.g. wood shavings, sand or alfalfa pellets) are not recommended. They are beautiful, however the chance of impaction is high.
What is the best substrate you’ve used to house your dog Beardie? Please share your thoughts below.
