Which UTH mats do you use?

I was literally just adding Exo Terra Rainforest to my Amazon cart, and I noticed that they only get 3-star average reviews. But I've also read some poor things about Zoo Med and other brands. Curious what everyone here (who uses mats) prefers, brand-wise?

Mine are all ZooMed, small and mediums. I do stick them to foil first. I have no complaints.

Originally Posted by DollysMom

Mine are all ZooMed, small and mediums. I do stick them to foil first. I have no complaints.

Why do you stick them on foil, and how do the stick to the bottom of the tank after you've stuck them on foil?


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I have 2 ZooMeds. They have a peel off paper and are self adhesive. The problem is, once you attach them to the bottom of the tank, if you ever want to move them or change tanks you can't get them back off without destroying them. (Actually you can if you're very careful, but it's a tedious process).

So if you stick them to foil, then you can attach them to the bottom of your tank with HVAC Foil Tape. If you ever want to remove them, you just slit the tape with a knife and you can place them on another tank or location.

So if you stick them to foil, then you can attach them to the bottom of your tank with HVAC Foil Tape. If you ever want to remove them, you just slit the tape with a knife and you can place them on another tank or location.

I've started doing this and have to say that it's my new favorite way to use UTH now...Sadly I have only done it to 2 of my vivs but from here on out that's the only way I'll do it. I also use the Zoomed UTH and haven't had any issue with them (other than trying to remove the stuck on ones...)

Originally Posted by Karl_Mcknight

I have 2 ZooMeds. They have a peel off paper and are self adhesive. The problem is, once you attach them to the bottom of the tank, if you ever want to move them or change tanks you can't get them back off without destroying them. (Actually you can if you're very careful, but it's a tedious process).

So if you stick them to foil, then you can attach them to the bottom of your tank with HVAC Foil Tape. If you ever want to remove them, you just slit the tape with a knife and you can place them on another tank or location.

Wow, that's good to know. I just attached a zoo Med heat pad to my ball pythons tank but I haven't yet attached to one to the corn snake's. I will do that first. Thanks for the explanation


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Oh yeah, I see that ReptiTherm gets way better reviews. Good to know about the foil also.

Follow-up question: the largest ReptiTherm mat is 8″ x 18″. The Exo Terra I am purchasing is 36" x 18" (x 18"). So...two mats on either side will not cover the entirety of the floor. Do they need to?

*sigh* So much to learn...

Use 2 mediums. They do not and should not cover the entire floor. Center each medium in each half of the floor.

Here's a picture of mine from the inside.