How to Sterilize Cork for Reptile Cages

Cork bark is a useful addition to a vivarium or other reptile tank. It provides a lightweight, attractive decorative element. It's also easy to cut and shape. Many reptile owners choose to use cork to provide hiding places for their pets, to keep humidity levels constant, and to add a naturalistic look to their cages. However, natural cork bark can come with some "hitchhikers" in the form of bugs, bacteria, fungi and other pests. That's why it's important to sterilize all cork before it goes into your reptile habitat.

Things You'll Need

  • Natural cork
  • Knife or scissors
  • Oven
  • Chlorine bleach (hypochlorite)
  • Water container
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut pieces of cork to size. They should fit in your oven with space on all sides, to allow air flow. It's easy to trim cork with a craft knife or strong scissors.

    • 2

      Choose a waterproof container large enough to completely submerge your pieces of cork. Fill the container with hot water and add bleach to produce a 5 percent solution.

    • 3

      Submerge cork in bleach water. Allow it to soak for 30 minutes. Rinse cork pieces well to remove all bleach residue.

    • 4

      Place cork pieces in your oven, with space on all sides. Dry the cork at 300 degrees F for 45 minutes, or until the cork is no longer wet. Use in your reptile cages as desired.