Is this a good idea?

[snakebeginner]

Ok, this is what I used to do with my Tarantulas. But I dont know if its good enough for snakes.

I used to clean my tarantulas cage by puting the dirt in a margarine container and then put in in the microwave with the lid just barly open and then put the dirt in the microwave for 6-10 min. Is this clean enough for snakes or what? I dont want to give my snake any diseases or anything buy not cleaning his cage good enough.

and is it even good to be using dirt? cause I never heard anyone saying that dirt can be used. or should i just use newpaper?
thanks