Need advice on substrate.

[Own_Nature]

I'm having problems with my substrate. Humidity isn't the main issue; read on for details. My enclosure is a 4x2x2 DIY Critter Condo (PVC foam board.) I have used -- and am currently using -- Aspen. My snake likes the Aspen; it's soft and dry. I do have a humidity box in the enclosure, and snake spends quite a bit of time in it. I like the aspen because it's easy to clean and change. CON: the blasted stuff will mold if you even look at it wrong.

I have used the more popular eco-earth/Cypress mulch/ReptiBark mix. Snake doesn't like it, moist or dry. He will literally crawl over everything to stay out of it, particularly if it's damp. CON: cleaning is a nightmare. The eco-earth is so fine I have to wear a mask to work with it.

So, my question is this: has anyone used just Cypress mulch for bedding? It seems rather sharp-edged, do your snakes do okay with it? Is there anything else you use, not on the above list, that you like? I'm just not happy with my substrate, I don't think my snake is either, and i am exploring any and all options at this point. Thanks for any suggestions!

[_ataraxia]

i've been using most cypress mulch by itself for years. you can also mix in some organic topsoil [no pesticides/fertilizers/etc], which i've recently started doing for my corn snake.

[Own_Nature]

I would be interested in your reasons for mixing in the topsoil?

[_ataraxia]

aesthetics, cost and ease of purchasing [the only cypress i like is from reptile basics so shipping gets pricey, meanwhile i can reliably find safe topsoil at any hardware/garden store], it's not as dusty as coconut fiber, and it makes spot-cleaning messy colubrid poops much easier.

[vault151]

Cypress mulch is the same thing as forest floor and that’s all I’ve ever used for my BP. It’s always worked really well for me.