Welcome to Geckos Unlimited!
You are correct about blockages and impactions from sand as well as some of the disadvantages of reptile carpet.
Best to use slate, ceramic, porcelain tiles and paper towels (not newspaper) for the substrate of a leo tank. Some Lowe's will even custom cut the tiles for a small charge.
How about continuing your setup questions right on this thread? GU can better help you that way.
"Originally Posted by scribegirl1996
another point
can use just a heat mat or just lights or do you have to have both
im getting a leo in a couple weeks and i need to know
thanks"
Best to begin your own thread as I see you have done.
Best to have both the UTH and a dome overhead. Leopard geckos need belly heat to digest their food. However, the temperature drops off quickly the further up one gets from the UTH. Adding a dome light will provide warm air temperatures for your leo and make him much more comfortable and curious. Having both lessens the chances of him being glued to the heat mat.
Have you seen the Leopard Caresheet linked in my signature? It is super thorough and a good resource for you.
Whatever you do, do NOT buy a leo startup kit.
How about a 30 x 12.5 x 12.5 inch long tank right from the beginning? Then you will save $ by having your leo set for life. Good idea to get an adult leo rather than a baby.
