Just wanted to post that I've been using a new substrate and it has been working great.
Stuff's called Kaytee Reptile Bedding and Litter. It's powdered alfalfa formed into pellets (like rabbit food). When it gets wet if turns to powder (so it cannot obstruct a snakes bowel unless copious amounts are ingested, and I feed out of enclosure anyway).
If it gets wet and you let it dry, it gloms together in one chunk that can be removed very easily. I usually just scoop out the chunk and a little around it and replace what I took out.
It's really absorbent. In fact, the chunks I take out don't even have an odor, even if I (and don't pretend you've never done this) put my nose right up to it.
That might also have something to do with the fact that it's treated with a mild solution of sodium bentonite (which reams most bacteria) and propionic acid (which subsequently reams fungus).
Here's the best part, a 5lb bag cost 2-3 bucks. Half of that will nicely cover the floor of a 20L with enough flexibility to smooth over holes from waste removal.
Check it out, stuff is cheap and works great.
