Clean vs. Dusty Bedding

A clearer choice for pet wellbeing.

Introduction

Dust might be invisible to the eye — but its effects on small animals can be all too visible. At ShredEase, we believe pet bedding should be gentle on lungs, easy to live with, and as clean as the rest of your home.

This page explains why we focus so heavily on dust control, and what sets a genuinely clean bedding apart.

Why Dust Matters

Many small pets have highly sensitive respiratory systems. In enclosed living spaces like hutches or cages, the presence of airborne dust can lead to discomfort — and over time, it may contribute to avoidable health concerns.

Common signs of irritation can include:

  •  Sneezing or nasal discharge
  •  Watery eyes
  •  Laboured breathing
  • Aggravated symptoms in pets with underlying conditions

Dust is also a known aggravator of specific respiratory conditions in animals, such as:

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in horses
  • Snuffles and Pasteurella infections in rabbits
  • Mycoplasma pulmonis in rats
  • Chronic Respiratory Disease (CRD) in birds and small mammals
  • General respiratory distress in guinea pigs, hamsters, and reptiles

Reducing exposure to dust is one of the simplest ways to support your pet’s comfort, wellbeing, and long-term health.

What Makes Bedding “Clean”?

The term "clean" goes beyond appearance. Truly clean bedding should be:

  • Low in fine dust and airborne fibres
  •  Free from synthetic scents or chemical residues
  • Made from materials that are safe if chewed or nested in
  • Consistently produced, so each bale delivers the same quality

Our Process

At ShredEase, clean isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of our design.

We start with carefully selected, food-grade cardboard, free from dyes or coatings. Each bale is processed using a multi-stage dust extraction system to remove the finest airborne particles.

For our premium product, CleanAir Bales, the process is even more refined. These bales undergo:

  • A two-stage shred
  • Followed by six independent dust extraction stages
  • Resulting in a soft, ultra-clean texture suitable for more delicate pets and cat litter applications

The result is bedding that’s not only visually clean, but also light on the lungs — for animals and owners alike.

The Outcome

  • A fresher environment for your pet
  • Less visible dust around the home
  • Support for animals with respiratory sensitivities
  • A more pleasant experience when handling or changing bedding

Want to Learn More?

Explore our Sustainability Commitment or visit About Us to discover the story behind ShredEase.