Is Wood shavings / bark chips a Safe Substrate for Leopard Geckos?
Holds moisture (raises humidity), can harbour mould, and presents an impaction risk if ingested. Pine and cedar are also aromatic and toxic to reptiles.
See the full substrates guide, or browse all 593 info pages.
Yes. Ceramic tile is a safe substrate for leopard geckos. Easy to clean, retains belly heat well, zero impaction risk.
Yes. Vinyl / lino flooring is a safe substrate for leopard geckos. Cheap, easy to replace, soft underfoot.
Yes. Paper towel is a safe substrate for leopard geckos. Best for hatchlings, sick geckos, or quarantine setups.
Yes. Bioactive mix (Josh's Frogs, Bio Dude) is a safe substrate for leopard geckos. Correct arid bioactive substrates (coco coir + sand + organic topsoil mix) are safe for healthy adult geckos.
Use caution — Reptile carpet is rated "caution" as a leopard gecko substrate. Fibres can catch on claws and toes causing injuries.
No — Calci-sand / calcium sand is rated "avoid" as a leopard gecko substrate. Marketed as safe but clumps in the digestive tract when ingested during hunting — a serious impaction risk.