Seperate feeding container?

[ConcinusMan]

Just about any wood, corn cob, or anything that swells in water can cause impaction. There are a few that won't hurt such as loose coconut fiber (fine stuff) and a little carefresh probably wont' hurt either. Still, I don't care if it's "safe" or not, they don't need to be swallowing any substrate. Worms aren't the only problem either. Even if your food item isn't particularly sticky, the eating habits of some snakes can still have them swallowing substrate.

[RedSidedSPR]

That's exactly what I thought. Don't care if it's "safe", still don't want 'em swallowing it.

The fish I feed him never leave the water bowl, he eats 'em so fast, so they're not really a problem.

Mostly I just want to find the best possible substrate, and the best feeding technique.

[BLUESIRTALIS]

I usually feed mine in plastic shoe box with a locking lid. No chance of swallowing substrate then. If the snake is a shy feeder you can put the shoe box in a dark place and they will usually eat.

[RedSidedSPR]

I'm sure I can get him to eat in something else (I have the perfect thing). I'll try the towl/dark room thing. Mostly now I just want to get the best substrate.
Thanks for your help on the feeding help. I'll let you know if it works.

Aspen is fine. I used to use aspen for my snakes. They loved it. Only downsides are it sticks to food easily, molds quickly and is really expensive (at least where I go... 15 dollars a gallon)

I've always stayed away from sand, it can cause problems, especially if it gets on food. Carefresh is cream and comes in many colours, keeps odor down, and they make tunnels in it and they stay there. It's good stuff.

I read aspen can really hurt them (more that others). Is this true? Cause I like aspen too... but yeah, it is expensive...

[BLUESIRTALIS]

I have used aspen for about twelve years and never lost a snake do to impaction. To me aspen is the best substrate. You don't want to use it with snakes that need high humidity though. Just be smart don't ever throw food in the cage and walk away. My garters eat right out of my hands so i make sure they don't swallow bedding.

[guidofatherof5]

I use compressed aspen pellets and have had great success with it.
Even with the large number of snakes I have I don't have problems with odor and it's easy to spot areas that need removed.
I also hand feed about 95% of all my snakes and ingesting substrate hasn't been an issue.
Gentle Touch Products - All Natural Pet Litter and Bedding

[RedSidedSPR]

So it's safe? Good to know. I'll probably end up getting that. Another reason I got what I have now is the fact that it looks more natural... but that dosnt matter.
Not liking the "gentle touch" stuff...