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sushi_78 · 02-25-2020, 01:13 PM

I use kiln-dried pine without any problems, as do many others. There's some uncertainty over its safety, which is why many prefer to avoid it, but I go by the "tried and tested" approach. My Robo loves burrowing in it and it holds her tunnels up well. It's up to you whether you are comfortable using pine.

Hemp bedding is similar in texture and consistency to wood shavings, but isn't made from softwood so there isn't the same uncertainty over its safety. I'm not sure if you can get hemp in Greece.

Another option would be spruce shavings, if you can find them. Spruce is technically a softwood but has negligible levels of phenols (the compounds responsible for the controversy over pine). It should still be kiln-dried before use.

You could also try mixing the Carefresh with some hay or shredded paper, which might help hold up his tunnels better.

02-25-2020, 01:13 PM
sushi_78 Hamster Overlord Join Date: Jun 2019 Location: London Posts: 763	Re: Question about bedding I use kiln-dried pine without any problems, as do many others. There's some uncertainty over its safety, which is why many prefer to avoid it, but I go by the "tried and tested" approach. My Robo loves burrowing in it and it holds her tunnels up well. It's up to you whether you are comfortable using pine. Hemp bedding is similar in texture and consistency to wood shavings, but isn't made from softwood so there isn't the same uncertainty over its safety. I'm not sure if you can get hemp in Greece. Another option would be spruce shavings, if you can find them. Spruce is technically a softwood but has negligible levels of phenols (the compounds responsible for the controversy over pine). It should still be kiln-dried before use. You could also try mixing the Carefresh with some hay or shredded paper, which might help hold up his tunnels better.