The Exo Terra Sand Mat is a popular reptile carpet that provides a natural desert look in terrariums. As a safe and hygienic substrate, it is suitable for many desert dwelling reptiles. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features and benefits of the Exo Terra Sand Mat to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your reptile’s enclosure.
Overview of the Exo Terra Sand Mat
The Exo Terra Sand Mat consists of sand and rocks glued onto a flexible mat backing. It comes in different sizes to fit various terrarium dimensions.
Key features include:
- Natural desert aesthetics with sand and rocks.
- Textured surface provides secure footing.
- Easy to cut to size and install.
- Quick removal for cleaning.
- Minimizes bacterial buildup.
The sand mat allows you to recreate a desert environment without the impaction risk of loose substrates The textured material also aids reptiles with shedding
Overall, it offers a convenient and mess-free alternative to real sand The Exo Terra Sand Mat works well for animals like bearded dragons, leopard geckos, skinks, and more
Benefits of the Exo Terra Sand Mat
Here are some of the biggest advantages of using the Exo Terra Sand Mat:
Natural-Looking Desert Environment
The sandy and rocky texture closely mimics the natural habitat of many reptiles. This can help reduce stress and make your pet feel more secure. The sand mat allows species like bearded dragons to exhibit natural digging behaviors.
Prevents Accidental Ingestion
Loose sand poses impaction risks as reptiles may accidentally swallow it, especially when going after feeder insects. The sand mat eliminates this hazard. The rocks are also firmly attached to prevent ingestion.
Easy Maintenance
Spot cleaning daily waste is simple. When needed, you can easily remove the mat, rinse it off, and replace once dry. There are no concerns about sifting through and replacing soiled substrate.
Mess-Free and Hygienic
Reptile waste and debris stays on top of the mat rather than sinking down. This prevents bacterial build up in substrates. The mat itself also resists bacterial growth. Overall, it promotes better hygiene compared to sand.
Textured Surface for Traction
Reptiles get excellent grip from the sand mat texture. This gives them secure footing and confidence to move around normally in the terrarium. It also helps wear down claws and aids with shedding.
Downsides of the Exo Terra Sand Mat
While the sand mat has many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks:
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Does not perfectly mimic real sand substrate.
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Waste can stain the mat over time.
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Rocks may fall off during cleaning.
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Not ideal for reptiles that require high humidity.
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Prone to odor retention.
The biggest complaint is that stains are difficult to remove after prolonged use. Exo Terra’s terrarium cleaner can help tackle this issue. There are also concerns that the loose rocks could come off and be accidentally ingested.
For species needing moist environments, the sand mat retains little humidity. It may also trap odors compared to loose substrates that can be fully replaced.
Cost of the Exo Terra Sand Mat
The Exo Terra Sand Mat offers excellent value. Prices range from $10 – $40 depending on the size. Given the long lifespan of the product, it is very cost effective compared to frequently replacing loose substrates.
Various sizes are available to accommodate different terrarium dimensions. Buying the properly fitted mat prevents wasted materials.
Final Verdict
Overall, the Exo Terra Sand Mat is a fantastic choice as a reptile carpet substrate. The natural appearance, safey, easy cleaning, and affordable price make it a go-to product for many keepers. Just be prepared to spot clean frequently and replace once worn out.
Minor drawbacks exist, especially regarding odor control and humidity retention. But for the right species, the Exo Terra Sand Mat recreates a desert environment without the risks of loose sand. It’s an excellent solution for beginners and provides ideal conditions for pets like bearded dragons.
Exo Terra Sand Mat Review: Is It the Best Substrate for Your Reptile’s Habitat?
FAQ
What is the exo terra sand mat for bearded dragons?
The Exo Terra Sand Mat has a natural desert appearance and can be applied as a safe & hygienic substrate substitute for your reptiles. The Sand Mat allows you to create a desert-like environment with a minimum of bacterial build up. Unlike loose sand or soil, the Sand Mat cannot be accidentally ingested.
How do you clean the exo terra sand mat?
Simply clean the Terrarium Mat by rinsing with water when soiled. The material used for the Exo Terra® Terrarium Mats is easy to clean and disinfect and allows you to create a hygienic environment for your animals, both for permanent care and quarantine.
Is a sand mat good for leopard geckos?
After extensive research and thought on the matter, we at ReptiFiles have concluded that sand is safe for use with leopard geckos, but only if it is used correctly. Leopard geckos should not be housed on loose substrate unless they have passed quarantine and are healthy.
What is sand mat?
SandMat – the perfect base to start your beach.
To make your sand last, you need a base to keep it separated from the soil beneath it. SandMats are meant to be used onshore or in very shallow water, no more than a few inches deep. For making a sandy lake bottom, see MuckMat.
What is Exo Terra sand mat?
It is made of authentic sand colors and does not have any dyes or pigments. This natural-looking substrate will encourage amphibians and reptiles to burrow and dig in the sand. Also, it will not cause a gut impaction because the substrate is properly grounded. The Exo Terra Sand Mat is a carpet that is used as a substitute for a substrate.
Does Exo Terra look like sand?
Although the Exo Terra looks very similar to sand, it does not have all the features of an actual sand substrate. If you want a natural substrate, then this product is not for you. Many of you might not like the unusual look of a cage that is carpet lined.
What is the Exo Terra Moss Mat?
The Exo Terra Moss Mat is an extremely natural-looking terrarium substrate that can be used for all types of reptiles and amphibians. It is soft, hygienic, and absorbent, making it easy to use and can be cut to fit any terrarium size. The Exo Terra Moss Mat is a mesh divider for crushed lava (or other naturally filtering substrates).
What is an Exo Terra heat mat?
Exo Terra’s Heat Mats are an ideal 24-hour primary or secondary heat source for tropical or temperate reptile and amphibian species and essential as a nighttime heat source for many desert species. The Exo Terra Heat Mat permanently adheres to the terrarium, forming a solid bond for optimal heat transfer.
What is Exo Terra Sub Stratum?
Exo Terra Sub Stratum is collected from the mineral-rich foothills of the Aso Volcano in Japan. It is a natural volcanic soil, formed from andesitic and rhyolitic tephra, that is very nutrient rich and ideal for lush plant growth in bioactive planted terrariums. Exo Terra Forest Moss is real compressed moss grown in tropical Asia.
Can you use a sand mat instead of a substrate?
The sand mat, for instance, is a convenient substitute for a substrate. You don’t have to comb through the sand looking for dirt; you can remove it and take it for a wash. Although the Exo Terra looks very similar to sand, it does not have all the features of an actual sand substrate.