As messy as that substrate is, I have found nothing better that inherently keeps their skin hydrated but not wet. Milks love that substrate. Sexually mature males make a big mess of it when they are cruising looking for females, but oh well.

Oh, and I don't use a water bowl more than 2-3 a month with that substrate. Don't need to. Snake doesn't lose as much moisture compared to wood chips or paper.
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Mark