Is Sand a Safe Substrate for Crested Geckos?
Not suited to this species at all — wrong humidity profile for a substrate that needs to stay damp, and carries an impaction risk if ingested with prey. There's no good reason to use sand in a crested gecko enclosure.
See the full substrates guide, or browse all 440 info pages.
Yes. Coconut fibre (eco earth) + sphagnum moss topper is a safe substrate for crested geckos. The standard for a humid bioactive crested gecko setup.
Yes. Paper towel is a safe substrate for crested geckos. Best for hatchlings, sick geckos, or quarantine.
Yes. Sphagnum moss (as primary layer) is a safe substrate for crested geckos. Excellent moisture retention for humidity-dependent species.
Use caution — Reptile carpet is rated "caution" as a crested gecko substrate. Retains less humidity than coco fibre and can harbour bacteria if not washed frequently.
Use caution — Loose substrate for hatchlings feeding on crickets is rated "caution" as a crested gecko substrate. A hatchling hunting live crickets on loose substrate can accidentally ingest particles along with prey.
No — Walnut shell is rated "avoid" as a crested gecko substrate. Sharp edges can lacerate the digestive tract and cause severe impaction if ingested.