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There are many substrates that are sold that people use for hermit crabs. Some substrates are good, and some are bad. For example, gravel is bad, because the crabs can't dig down in it or make tunnels for molting. It would cause many stressful surface molts. It'd also scratch the crabs in the tank it was being used. Another bad substrate is wood chips. It easily molds in a warm, humid environment, and crabs can't make a tunnel with it. On this page is a list of usable and unusable substrates if they are good. They both have reason why they're good or bad, and where it is advised to get them Play sand - Good - Home Depot, Lowes, etc. Do NOT buy from places that keep their substrate outside or where it is wet. - Crabs can molt easily in this substrate; Better than gravel. Gravel - Bad - Crabs cannot dig under to molt or make tunnels for molting; scratches exoskeleton. Little rock things - Bad - Gets inside of shell and irritates crab. Coconut Fiber (Eco Earth, hermit soil, Forest Bedding, etc.) - Petco - Crabs can easily make tunnels. Should be used with sand. Easier for crabs to make tunnels than play sand. NOTE: Some crabs do not like coconut fiber, so make sure you have a different substrate. Calcium Sand - Bad - Spoils when wet; expensive.