Types of Fabric Bedding

Last Updated on August 4, 2022.

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Fleece

• Fleece is relatively inexpensive and can be found most places where fabric is sold.
• The anti-pill varieties may last longer and wear better than traditional fleece.
• Keep in mind that fleece is made from spun plastic. Plastic does NOT absorb liquid (hydrophobic) so feces and urine will puddle on top until they air dry.  We recommend placing a towel underneath. 
• Do not bleach as it may cause break down of the material. Follow washing instructions suggested by the manufacturer.
• Having at least one spare liner is great for laundry/cage cleaning day.
• Hedgehogs that are potty trained to use a litter box will usually keep their fleece bedding clean.

VIDEO.:  FLEECE LINERS FOR SALE

Crib Liners

• These thick pads are found in the baby section of many department stores.
• They are excellent options for families who no longer need them.

Ready Made Cage Liners

• They are made to order to fit your cage and come in a variety of colors and patterns
• While the initial cost can be high, the upkeep is minimal.
• Keep in mind that darker colors would not show variations in feces or urine so lighter colors may be the best bet.

VIDEO.:  Cage Bedding

ProFleece

• ProFleece is a great fabric type bedding available for pets!
• It has been used by veterinarians for decades and is becoming very popular in the pet industry.
• It is made of 100% polyester which is:
  • Non–irritating
  • Non-allergic
  • Does not support bacterial growth
  • Stain resistant
  • Dries fast after washing or accidents
• The pile aides heat retention while still allowing air to circulate.
• With proper washing/drying care this bedding can last years which helps to save both money and the environment.
• It can be easily cut to fit any space with no fraying or damage to the product.
• The extra strong backing is allows the hedgehog to dig into the pile without damaging the bedding.

ProFleece Premium Vet Bedding

• 1200 grams density per meter squared
• 25 mm pile
• Non-slip backing allows for drainage when accidents occur
• Washable up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit and tumble dry on cool/warm heat

ProFleece Ultimate Vet Bedding

• The Ultimate series offers both the non-slip ribbed backing and the green back. The green back is knitted from a double strength chew resistant yarn.
• 1600 grams density per meter squared
• 31 mm pile
• Tumble Dry cool/warm heat
• Available in Non-slip backing washable up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Available in Green Back washable up to 194 degrees Fahrenheit

Vellux

• Some hedgehog hobbyists prefer to use Vellux blankets (found in the bedding section of Wal-Mart or similar store) in the bottom of hedgehog cages as an alternative to bedding.
• One vellux blanket can be cut into several small pieces to fit the size of the hedgehog’s cage.
• The blanket pieces can be changed every two to three days, washed, and reused.
• Vellux may hold its shape after many washings, will not unravel, Do not bleach vellux because it can break down the blanket fibers.
• Warnings
  • Urine will puddle on top of the liner if your hedgehog is not litter box trained because it is hydrophobic (repels moisture).
  • Vellux will not hold up to hedgehogs scratching it.
  • An important downside of using vellux is that many hedgehogs have been known scratch and chew it up and digest the foamy material.
    • Some are lucky and pass it all on her own.
    • Others develop blockages and required surgery to repair the problem.
  • Although vellux has many good attributes, we cannot recommend its use to anyone. There are many concerns and there are other options available.

 

Contributors: Gail Smith, Nicole Belval, formerly of Prickly Pair Hedgehogs; Christine Riddle, Riddle’s Hedgehogs; Shelly Fowler, Beach Bum Hedgehogs, Melissa Ramos