Sand as a substrate

[Emily-Fisher]

In the past, I have had several leopard gecko owners/breeders tell me that adult leopard geckos actually enjoy having sand a substrate more than papertowels. I too would rather use sand for my adults since it is much more attractive than paper towels. However, I am still unbelievably concerned about using it and have some questions to ask about it first.

If I was to use sand, I would use washed playsand since it's really small and if it gets consumed, it can be passed through my leos' systems more easily than other sands. BUT... at what size/age should the leo be for playsand to be a perfectly size substrate?

I would also like your own opinions on using sand as a substrate. I very rarely feed my leos crickets. I usually only feed them mealies, silks, waxies and butterworms in a dish so I'm not <i>too </i> concerned about impaction but whatever experience you can share with me about using sand would be much appreciated.

Thank you!