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Hmmmmm.

This is a good topic that could go on for days and days.

Keeping your chondros hydrated is a HUGE deal!
But I have found that that the invisible line between hydrated and soaked, and damp cages is pretty easy to cross.
And will cause numerous health related issues when crossed frequently or walked over and forgotten.

As far as tips on keeping animals hydrated here are mine;

Set you cage ventilation up so you can mist moderately on a daily basis with cages still drying out completely between spraying.

Use clean water.

Find the balance of hydration vs temps for each animal.
<<As the temp of the animals cages goes up so will its need for hydration>>

Error on the dry side of things at all times.
<< just because your cage is dry doesn't mean the animal is not hydrated >>
<<<you can always check you animal by pinching it lightly if the skin stays wrinkled the animal is not hydrated>>>

In my opinion remove the substrate from you cages.
<< use a bare bottom cage or just a thin layer of paper that can be completely changed when soiled>>


One last thought you mentioned chondros don't seem to drink well.
I have animals that never drink from their water bowls at least not while I am watching and or checking in.
But I also have animals that drink readily from water bowls.
It does appear that the animals that don't use the water bowl will drink water readily of the coils after being misted.
I have also seen my animals search out moving water while being misted or hosed down much like a chameleons.
Which makes a ton of sense when you think about their natural habitat.

Anyway those are my thoughts!

My, suggestion if you think you have a dehydrated animal is to soak and correct your husbandry.
You may also make an effort to slow down your feeding until the animal is hydrated.
Once your animal is hydrated continue feeding normally.