Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just mixed my first tub of the season for incubation. I noticed the vermiculite has a chemicaly type smell to it almost like paint, but not as strong. And only when it is wet, the dry vermiculite doesn't smell. Is this normal?

Thanks
Jay Cassidy

I've never had vermiculite smell at all when wet. I wouldn't take a chance with whatever source that it came from & would switch to a different brand.

Vermiculite has the same chemical composition as sand. It has been known to be contaminated with other substances however, even arsenic (albeit rare). I'd throw out what you got, and get a different brand for this season.

I threw it all out, it was 4 big 4 cu ft bags. I went to a different supplier and got some real nice stuff (No Smell)!!!
I never had vermiculite smell like that, I new there was something wrong.

Thanks
Jay Cassidy