Is No substrate an option?

[GRals22]

With all the debate on substrates, is it OK to use no substrate and just leave the glass bottom exposed?

 

[Sadie]

With all the debate on substrates, is it OK to use no substrate and just leave the glass bottom exposed?

I would not you can get some textured NON adhesive shelf liner cut it to the size of the tank clean w/ vinegar /water 50/50 -- insects cant get underneath you can find it at your local home improvement store
the glass is going to have him slipping and sliding all over the tank -- you might want to put a piece of ceramic slate tile in for him to walk on it will keep his nails down

 

[HoomanSlave]

Tile, non-adhesive liner, and a sandy soil mix (with a tile eating area) are all good, noncontroversial substrates. If you're going to go with a solid substrate be sure to provide a dig box.

 

[Broly]

Someone correct me if there is controversy (which I haven’t come across) but as far as I’m aware it’s ok to use newspaper too (if you’re unable to get hold of a more preferred substrate). Lay flat rather than tearing or shredding.

 

[HoomanSlave]

Newspaper is fine as long as it's not glossy, the only problem is that it needs to be changed out whenever there's poop (I think? Please correct me if I'm wrong)

 

[Sadie]

Newspaper is fine as long as it's not glossy, the only problem is that it needs to be changed out whenever there's poop (I think? Please correct me if I'm wrong)

Newspaper is fine along w/ paper towels- haven't heard anything about changing out right away but it probably wouldn't hurt

 

[Broly]

Newspaper is fine as long as it's not glossy, the only problem is that it needs to be changed out whenever there's poop (I think? Please correct me if I'm wrong)

Yeah, it would need to be changed each poop/wee, but if you put plenty of layers down you can just tear the area or lift a sheet or two

 

[cliffhangerreptiles]

I wouldn't recommend using just the glass. Ceramic tile may be a good solution. Something easy to disinfect. We have PVC enclosures and do not use a substrate. This is a very clean option.

This article may help.

 

[Bostonfinest]

I would not you can get some textured NON adhesive shelf liner cut it to the size of the tank clean w/ vinegar /water 50/50 -- insects cant get underneath you can find it at your local home improvement store
the glass is going to have him slipping and sliding all over the tank -- you might want to put a piece of ceramic slate tile in for him to walk on it will keep his nails down

I agree with the tile or just throw some paper towel down

 

[Bostonfinest]

Newspaper is fine as long as it's not glossy, the only problem is that it needs to be changed out whenever there's poop (I think? Please correct me if I'm wrong)

You are correct, I was using paper towel until I upgraded to tile