Tile for a substrate?

[Smeagol358]

Hi, I am wondering why tile is a really good substrate for a bearded dragon? I heard that a lot of people think tile is the best substrate. But they only really said one reason why it was: it files there nails down. Is there any other reason why tile is a good substrate??

 

[dEEjHaY]

Easy cleaning, holds heat, naturally helps keep nails filed, and #1 factor for me was no issues with impaction or holding any type of bacteria like sand and other loose substrates. But it's really preference, I think non-adhesive shelf liner or reptile carpet is just as good, but some people prefer tile or slate, and some prefer the latter.

Cheers,

 

[Hellstrom]

It's easy to clean. If you get more tiles than necessary you can just switch them out and don't have to clean them that minute. They also hold heat really well, not to the point of burning your beardie but they stay nice and toasty

 

[Smeagol358]

Thanks! I think I'm going to use tile when I move Smeagol to a bigger cage. What kind of tile should I use and how should I clean it??

 

[Hellstrom]

Anything that's not polished and too smooth. Unfinished ceramic and slate tend to be the favorite. I personally love how slate looks, but beyond the unpolished and not too smooth it's just personal preference. There's so many choices you could spend hours looking, lol

 

[Smeagol358]

Thanks. But do you know how to clean it?

 

[Hellstrom]

You can use a highly diluted bleach mix, just make sure to wash it with water very well and let it dry completely. There are a lot of new organic cleaning products recommend for homes with animals. Personally I use really hot water and scrub really hard, lol. I have bad allergies and cleaning products aren't good for me to be around.

 

[Smeagol358]

Thank you so much! Now I cant wait till he gets bigger and I move him to a new cageand put him on tile!! Lol!

 

[dEEjHaY]

I clean mine with hot water and lemon juice. Very effective and provides a nice lemony smell!