Cheap alternatives to "cigar" beads?

I've read so many posts about "kitty litter" vs "beads" that I can hardly believe that anyone wouldn't pay to have beads in their humidors. I bought a pound of beads over a year ago and they work perfectly and the only maintenance is that I spray them once a month. They are self regulating, they work, I only keep a hygrometer to keep my OCD under control. I'm sure there will always be this debate and for me I go along with the majority on here and say to buy yourself some beads and relax and you won't have to worry anymore.