Why doesn't anyone use clay for substrate

[fl_orchidslave]

Well clay as in hardened, I know there is that eco crap they sell in pet stores but that stuff just seems worthless. If you get the regular brown clay from Hobby Lobby you can put about a half an inch to an inch on the bottom of your tank, smooth it out and let it dry for 24 hours. Cleaning is about as easy as it is with tile, once it hardens its pretty easy to wipe down with some kitchen cleaner etc.

That sounds really cool Some folks have used sand on the surface to give it that sandy look and texture for some different DIY projects in threads here.

 

[PaladinGirl]

I've raved about this on these forums a few times because I felt pretty conceited for coming up with the idea: brown paper lawn bags! I think they look nice, much more natural in appearance than paper towel and newspaper (if you use the side with no printing on it). Kind of a pain to measure (I use one whole piece to cover the bottom), but I made a cardboard template to trace when it's time to clean the tank. They can also withstand a little moisture if water gets spilled or you want to wipe it. I use an extra strip where he poops and change it out daily. So just putting that idea out there.

 

[Blacksupra94]

Clay is a good substrate, it is just heavy! I personally use foam/grout for my substrate and hides.

 

[Golden Gate Geckos]

My only concern about using clay as a substrate would be it's thermal conductivity. What happens to the clay when it gets hot from the UTH, and how does it conduct heat?

 

[Jellybean]

Just depends on the thickness, if anything it stays more cool than paper towels etc. The best thing I can recommend is to take a small tank work with some of it and see if you like it.

 

[DiscoDigi786]

I had read of people having dust issues with clay as it dried - has anyone had experiences with this? I figured it was worth mentioning since geckos can have sinus problems.

I like the idea though, Jelly. I will have to check it out next time I am nearby my local hobby lobby.

 

[Jellybean]

There is no dust issue once it has dried, its just like a typical flower pot you would buy in the garden department

 

[DiscoDigi786]

Okay, sorry about missing the type of clay you were talking about Jelly. The excavator clay substrate has dust issues when it is dry.

So are you going to make hides from this stuff or do a "full cage" treatment?

 

[Jellybean]

I used it as substrate with one of my cages to achieve a more natural look, seems to work well haven't had any problems. I am working on some hides ill add to it later on.