Leopard Gecko Information: The Five Best Substrates To Use In Your Enclosure

Owning a pet can be a rewarding experience. If you are the proud owner of a leopard gecko, then you must be aware of the great debate over deciding what is the right substrate to use in your Leo’s cage. There is no clear answer to this question and it is mostly based on personal choice. Here is my “TOP FIVE” list of acceptable substrates.

5. Unprinted Newspaper

Unprinted newspaper is a great choice as a substrate for your gecko’s cage. The texture of newspaper makes it more absorbent than other types of paper. This makes cleaning your Leo’s cage so much easier! Can you use regular newspaper? You could, but I wouldn’t recommend it because of the ink. The ink in printed newspaper will quickly transfer to your pet’s feet and stomach, causing unnecessary irritation and dry skin. Where can you get unprinted newspaper? This can usually be bought fairly cheaply as trailing rolls from your local newspaper.

4. Bath towel

If you are a “GREEN” person, this will be your best choice in substrate. Bath towels can be purchased very cheaply at stores like Target or Walmart. Not only are they inexpensive, but they can be washed and then reused to save you money. Keep these two things in mind when using a kitchen or bath towel. First, make sure it’s woven tightly so your leopard gecko doesn’t get caught in the fibers. Second, be sure to use very little detergent, if any, when washing your towels so you don’t irritate your gecko’s skin.

3. Vinyl tile

Cheap, durable and easy to clean are the three words that best describe this potential substrate. Another benefit of using vinyl tile is the ability to cut to size to fit your tank (is there anything better?) Those aren’t the only good reasons to use vinyl tile. Just think of all the decorating possibilities with the different colors and types of tiles available.

The only negative to using vinyl tile is the glue. You’ll want to find tiles that don’t have glue applied to the back because if you use an under-tank heater, the hot glue will release toxic fumes that could be deadly to your pet.

2. Reptile rug

This is Astro Turf for your gecko! Specifically designed for reptiles, this is a great product to use. Easy to clean and comes in a variety of sizes are some of its benefits. The only drawbacks of this product are its price, since it is more expensive than the other options, and security. You just have to be careful and make sure your Leo doesn’t get his mouth stuck to the carpet fibers like the towel.

1. Slate tiles

This is my favorite substrate. Hard, natural and has thermal mass. Using slate shingles as a substrate is a more natural material than would be found in its native environment. I like slate because I can get them cut down to the size of my tank, but also because they absorb heat. My geckos love to lay on them to keep warm. Another benefit is that it can also be used to create hide-and-seek and other creative things for your Leo to play one with.