5 min read
Fleece vs Paper vs Aspen Bedding for Guinea Pigs
A side-by-side comparison of fleece, paper and aspen bedding for guinea pigs: absorbency, dust, odor, cost and cleaning time.
Fleece
- Pros: reusable, low dust, soft on feet, tidy look.
- Cons: needs an absorbent layer underneath and frequent washing.
- Best for: owners with easy laundry access who spot clean daily.
Paper bedding
- Pros: absorbent, soft, easy to replace, good odor control.
- Cons: ongoing cost, some brands are dusty.
- Best for: new owners and pigs with respiratory sensitivity when dust-extracted.
Aspen shavings
- Pros: affordable, natural, good for foraging.
- Cons: can be dusty and sharp; choose kiln-dried, dust-extracted aspen.
- Best for: well-ventilated rooms, often combined with paper in toilet areas.
What to avoid
- Cedar and pine shavings that are not kiln dried, which release aromatic oils.
- Scented bedding.
- Cat litter and corn cob.
Our take
There is no single best bedding. The best one is absorbent, low dust, comfortable and something you can keep clean daily.