Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pets for reptile enthusiasts. They are known for their easy-going personalities, their relatively simple care requirements, and their ability to thrive in captivity. One of the most important aspects of their care is the type of substrate they live on.
Sand is a popular substrate for bearded dragons, but it is important to choose the right kind for your pet. In this article, we will review the 10 best sand substrates for bearded dragons and provide tips on how to choose the right one for your pet.
Bearded dragons are lizards that naturally live in desert environments. Because of this, they require a warm and dry habitat. Sand is a great substrate for bearded dragons because it helps to maintain their natural habitat while also providing them with a comfortable place to lay and rest.
It also provides a good grip for them to climb on and encourages natural digging. However, not all sand substrates are created equal and it is important to choose one that is safe and provides the best environment for your pet.
In this article, we will review the 10 best sand substrates for bearded dragons. We will discuss the pros and cons of each substrate, as well as the proper way to maintain it. We will also provide tips on how to choose the right substrate for your pet. By the end of this article, you should have a better understanding of the different types of sand substrates available and how to choose the one that is best for your bearded dragon.
Here are 10 best Sand Substrate For Bearded Dragons
Review of Sand Substrate For Bearded Dragons
1. Exo Terra Sand Mat
The Exo Terra Sand Mat is the perfect substrate for bearded dragons. This 10-gallon mat features a naturalistic texture that closely mimics the environment of the bearded dragon’s natural habitat.
The sand mat is designed with an open-cell construction and is highly absorbent, allowing for optimal ventilation and temperature control. It also absorbs liquid waste, eliminating the need for frequent cleanings. The soft, non-abrasive material is gentle on the beardies’ sensitive feet and helps maintain their claws.
The Sand Mat is easy to clean and maintain, and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor terrariums. Plus, it’s a great way to create a beautiful, naturalistic look in your bearded dragon’s home.
The Exo Terra Sand Mat is an excellent choice when it comes to providing your bearded dragon with a safe and comfortable habitat. Its open-cell construction allows for optimal ventilation and temperature control, while its absorbent material absorbs liquid waste and prevents the need for frequent cleanings. The soft, non-abrasive material is gentle on the beardies’ sensitive feet and helps maintain their claws.
The Sand Mat is easy to maintain and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor terrariums. While the Exo Terra Sand Mat is an excellent choice for bearded dragons, it is important to note that it should not be used in areas where moisture is present. Additionally, the mat should be replaced periodically to ensure optimal health and safety for your beardie.
2. Zoo Med Vita Sand
Zoo Med Vita Sand is the perfect sand substrate for your bearded dragon. This 10 pound bag of sand comes in a beautiful gold color and is made of select quartz, providing the ideal environment for your pet.
The sand has been tested to ensure it is safe for your reptile and free of impurities. It is finely graded and non-toxic, so it won’t irritate your pet’s delicate skin. The sand is designed to provide the correct levels of calcium, zinc and other minerals that are essential to the health of your bearded dragon.
It also helps to maintain a proper PH balance in the environment, allowing your pet to thrive. Zoo Med Vita Sand is easy to clean and maintain, making it the perfect choice for your reptile.
3. Exo Terra Desert Sand
The Exo Terra Desert Sand is the perfect substrate for your bearded dragon’s enclosure. Made from 100% natural quartz sand, this 10-pound bag of black sand is specifically designed to provide a safe, natural-looking environment for your pet. The Desert Sand is free from any artificial dyes or other chemicals, so it’s safe for your bearded dragon to walk and dig in.
The Desert Sand is free from any artificial dyes or other chemicals, so it’s safe for your bearded dragon to walk and dig in. It also helps to maintain the humidity in the enclosure, which is ideal for desert reptile species. Plus, the black color helps to absorb heat, making it an ideal substrate for your pet’s enclosure.
This substrate is easy to clean and maintain. The Desert Sand is also non-toxic and non-abrasive, so it won’t scratch your pet or irritate their skin.
The substrate also won’t break down over time, so you can reuse it for a long time. The Exo Terra Desert Sand is an ideal substrate for your desert-dwelling pet. The natural quartz sand is safe, non-abrasive, and easy to maintain, making it the perfect substrate for your bearded dragon’s enclosure.
4. Zoo Med Cavern Kit
The Zoo Med Cavern Kit with Excavator Clay Burrowing Substrate is the perfect sand substrate for bearded dragons and other reptiles that require a burrowing environment. This kit includes a 5 lb bag of Excavator clay, a natural burrowing substrate that allows reptiles to dig and hide.
5 lb bag of Excavator clay, a natural burrowing substrate that allows reptiles to dig and hide. The clay is formulated to be safe for reptiles, and the clay particles are the perfect size for bearded dragons to dig and form caves, providing them with a stress free and comfortable environment. The kit also includes a 1 lb bag of real sand, providing an additional natural substrate that allows reptiles to form tunnels and create a unique habitat.
The substrate is easy to maintain, and the Excavator clay is resistant to bacteria and fungus, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for your reptile. It’s also non-toxic and safe for reptiles, so you can rest assured that your pet is safe.
The Zoo Med Cavern Kit with Excavator Clay Burrowing Substrate is the perfect way to provide your reptile with a safe and comfortable environment. It’s easy to maintain, and the clay and sand mix helps to keep humidity levels ideal for your reptile.
This kit is a great way to provide your pet with a natural environment that’s safe and secure.
5. African CICHILD Aragonite 10LB
This African Cichild Aragonite Sand for Aquarium is the perfect substrate for your bearded dragon’s home. This sand is composed of all-natural minerals that are safe and healthy for your reptile.
The small-grain size ensures a smooth, even surface with no sharp edges, and the 10lb bag provides plenty of coverage for your terrarium. The natural color of the sand emphasizes the beauty of your bearded dragon, while the aragonite helps to balance the pH levels in their environment. Plus, the sand helps to keep humidity levels high, which is beneficial for your pet.
The only downside is that the sand can be a bit dusty if not handled properly, so be sure to wear a mask when handling it. All in all, this is a great product to ensure your bearded dragon’s living space is as safe and comfortable as possible.
6. Zoo Med 26406 Laboratories
The Zoo Med 26406 Laboratories 690108 Excavator Clay Burrowing Substrate is the perfect sand substrate for bearded dragons. This 20 lb pack contains clay mined from the desert in the USA, which has a unique texture that encourages natural burrowing behavior. The substrate is made with natural clay particles that allow for optimal air and water flow throughout the terrarium, helping to maintain a healthy environment for your pet.
The clay particles also help to maintain the humidity level in the terrarium, making it ideal for desert reptiles. The substrate is easy to use, simply spread a 2-3 inch layer across the terrarium and you’re done.
The substrate has a unique texture that helps keep your pet’s feet clean and healthy. Furthermore, the substrate is dust-free and non-toxic, making it a safe choice for your pet. The Zoo Med 26406 Laboratories 690108 Excavator Clay Burrowing Substrate is a great choice for any bearded dragon owner looking to create a more natural environment for their pet.
The substrate is easy to maintain and helps to create a healthy environment for your pet. However, it is important to note that this substrate should not be ingested by your pet, and should be kept away from any sources of water.
7. PENN-PLAX Reptology Lizard Lounger
The PENN-PLAX Reptology Lizard Lounger Corner Triangle is a great addition for any reptile enclosure. This natural seagrass fiber lounger is designed specifically for bearded dragons, anoles, geckos, iguanas, and other reptiles, giving them a comfortable and safe place to rest and relax. The corner triangle lounger is made from 100% natural seagrass fiber, which is soft and comfortable while also durable and long lasting.
It is also a great sand substrate for bearded dragons, providing them with a safe and secure environment. The lounger is easy to install, with an adjustable strap that can be attached to the side of any reptile enclosure.
The corner triangle shape also allows your reptile to climb and explore, giving it a more natural environment. The lounger is designed for small reptiles and is perfect for bearded dragons, anoles, geckos, iguanas, and other small reptiles.
Overall, the PENN-PLAX Reptology Lizard Lounger Corner Triangle is the perfect choice for any reptile enclosure. It provides your reptile with a comfortable and safe place to rest and relax, while also providing them with a natural environment to explore and climb.
The natural seagrass fiber is durable and easy to clean, making it a great choice for any reptile owner.
8. AquaNatural Diamond Black 10lb
AquaNatural Diamond Black 10lb is the perfect substrate for all your aquatic needs. This premium gravel and substrate is great for aquariums, fish tanks, and terrariums alike.
The black color is both aesthetically pleasing and adds to the natural look of your aquarium or tank. This substrate is easy to clean and maintain, and helps to keep your aquarium or tank looking beautiful and healthy.
It helps to create a natural environment for your fish and other aquatic animals, and is also great for plants. It is also very durable, so you can be sure that it will last for a long time. On the downside, it is a bit heavier than other substrates, so it may be difficult to move around if you need to rearrange your aquarium or tank.
On the downside, it is a bit heavier than other substrates, so it may be difficult to move around if you need to rearrange your aquarium or tank. Also, it is not the cheapest substrate option, so if you are on a tight budget, you may want to look for an alternative. Overall, AquaNatural Diamond Black 10lb is an excellent premium gravel and substrate for aquariums, fish tanks, and terrariums.
It is especially perfect for bearded dragons, as it is made of 1-2mm size granules, is completely natural, and is non-toxic. It is also easy to clean and maintain, durable, and helps to create a natural environment for your aquatic animals.
9. Flourite Black Sand
Flourite Black Sand is the perfect sand substrate for bearded dragons, providing a natural look and a safe, comfortable home for your pet. This 14 pound bag is made of a specially formulated clay gravel that is non-toxic and pH neutral, making it safe for your bearded dragon.
The dark color of the sand helps to simulate the natural environment of bearded dragons, and the particles are small enough to allow for burrowing. The sand also helps to maintain a stable temperature for your pet, and assists in keeping their habitat clean and free from bacteria.
The Flourite Black Sand also provides a natural buffer for the water in your bearded dragon’s habitat, reducing the need for additives. The sand is easy to maintain, with it only needing to be vacuumed every two weeks and replaced every six months.
10. Zoo Med HydroBalls Lightweight
Introducing the Zoo Med HydroBalls Lightweight Expanded Clay Terrarium Substrate! This
5 pound bag of expanded clay is the perfect addition to your bearded dragon’s terrarium. HydroBalls are made from lightweight natural clay, which makes them easy to move and handle. The clay pellets expand when placed in water, which helps to create a stable and secure habitat for your pet.
They are also pH-neutral and provide excellent drainage, helping to keep your terrarium free from excess moisture. The unique shape of HydroBalls also helps to keep the substrate from compressing, thus providing a comfortable environment for your reptile to move around. Plus, their light color helps reflect natural light, which is important for your pet’s health.
On the negative side, HydroBalls can be somewhat difficult to clean, as they can easily become clogged with debris. Overall, Zoo Med HydroBalls Lightweight Expanded Clay Terrarium Substrate is an excellent choice for creating a comfortable and stable home for your bearded dragon.
With its lightweight construction and pH-neutral composition, it provides all the necessary elements for a healthy and safe living environment. Get your bag today and give your pet the best!
What to consider before buying Sand Substrate For Bearded Dragons
Benefits of Sand Substrate
Sand substrate is an ideal choice for bearded dragons – it’s soft, comfortable, and beneficial for their overall health. Not only does sand provide an aesthetically pleasing environment, but it also helps keep your bearded dragon’s feet healthy, encourages natural behaviors, and even helps with digestion. Enjoy the many benefits of sand substrate for your beloved pet!
Enjoy the many benefits of sand substrate for your beloved pet!
Types of Sand Substrates
Sand substrates for bearded dragons can provide an aesthetically pleasing and naturalistic environment in your pet’s habitat. There are a variety of sand substrates to choose from, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks. From calcium-enriched sands to eco-friendly sands, there’s a perfect sand substrate for every bearded dragon’s needs.
From calcium-enriched sands to eco-friendly sands, there’s a perfect sand substrate for every bearded dragon’s needs.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Types
Bearded dragons need the right kind of substrate to stay healthy and thrive. Sand is one option, but it has both advantages and disadvantages.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of using sand as a substrate for your bearded dragon.
Do I Really Need a sand substrate for bearded dragons
No, you do not need a sand substrate for bearded dragons. Gravel and other non-abrasive substrates can be used as an alternative. Bearded dragons can also be kept on paper towels, reptile carpet, or even bare substrate.
Bearded dragons can also be kept on paper towels, reptile carpet, or even bare substrate. However, if you choose to use sand, make sure to get a substrate specifically designed for reptiles, as play sand and other fine particle sands can be dangerous if ingested.
What Are the Main Benefits Of sand substrate for bearded dragons
Safety: Sand is a safe option for bearded dragons because it’s non-toxic and won’t cause impaction if ingested.
Comfort: Sand provides a comfortable substrate for bearded dragons to walk, dig and bask on.
Aesthetics: Sand gives bearded dragon enclosures a natural and aesthetically pleasing look. Hygiene: Sand is easier to keep clean than other substrates, as it can be spot-cleaned and replaced regularly.
Heat Retention: Sand retains heat for a longer period of time, which is important for bearded dragons as they need to regulate their body temperature.
What type of sand should be used for a bearded dragon’s enclosure?
Silica sand or calcium-based sand should be used for a bearded dragon’s enclosure.
What are the pros and cons of using sand as a substrate for bearded dragons?
Pros: Sand is a natural substrate for bearded dragons, providing a comfortable and familiar environment. It is also easy to clean and maintain. Cons: Sand can easily become contaminated with bacteria and parasites, which can be harmful to bearded dragons, and can cause respiratory issues if ingested. It can also get very hot, potentially burning the dragon’s skin.
Is it safe to use sand as a substrate for bearded dragons?
No, it is not safe to use sand as a substrate for bearded dragons. Sand can cause impaction if ingested, and can make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Instead, use substrates made specifically for bearded dragons, such as reptile carpet, paper towels, or reptile tiles.
How often should the sand in a bearded dragon’s enclosure be changed?
The sand in a bearded dragon’s enclosure should be changed every two to three months.
What type of sand is the least likely to cause impaction in bearded dragons?
The least likely type of sand to cause impaction in bearded dragons is calcium-based sand.
Is there a preferred size of sand grain for bearded dragons?
No, there is not a preferred size of sand grain for bearded dragons. The most important factor is that the sand is safe for reptiles, such as calcium-based sand, or aquarium-safe play sand. The size of the grain should be large enough that the bearded dragon cannot accidentally ingest it.
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In Summary
In conclusion, the best sand substrate for bearded dragons is Zoo Med ReptiSand. This sand is composed of calcium carbonate which is safe for reptiles, and it is finely ground so it won’t cause any digestive issues or impaction. Furthermore, it is non-toxic, non-abrasive, and non-staining.
It is also very natural looking and helps maintain a healthy environment for your bearded dragon. With its natural color, it can help to keep your dragon’s enclosure looking beautiful.
Additionally, it is very affordable, making it an even better choice for those on a budget. All in all, Zoo Med ReptiSand is an excellent choice for a sand substrate for bearded dragons.
