The best chicken coop and nesting box bedding options

pin shavings as chicken coop bedding and nesting box option

Varied chicken keepers have different ideas on what bedding to use in their chicken coop. As a newbie, you may find it extremely tricky to decide the right one for your chicken. Bedding plays a crucial role in chicken health and comfort. The right chicken bedding might encourage your hens to lay eggs as well. Therefore, we are here to help you settle on the proper type of chicken bedding.

 Pine Shavings/wood Chips

 

wood-shavings-for-chicken-coop-bedding

 

Cedar shavings in the coop are out of our consideration. However, however pine shavings are very popular among chicken keepers because they are less harmful to your chickens' respiratory systems and are very inexpensive. This material is easily attainable and effective at odor control. It can hold up droppings well, allowing you to replace the bedding 2-3 times per year.  It should be noted, however, that it does not i nsulate in cold climates.

 

Sand

chicken-coop-run-bedding-with-sand

Poultry owners commonly use sand as chicken bedding. It's incredibly absorbent and aids with odor control in the chicken coop. It helps to dry out the chicken feces, making it easier to view and remove the droppings. Sand also serves as a dust bath, which chickens adore! Cleaning excrement clumps with a snow shovel is simple. It is important to note that it is dusty, which is unhealthy for the respiratory system of hens.

 

Straw

 

chicken-coop-bedding-material-using-straw

Because straw is widely available and inexpensive in most places, many chicken owners opt to utilize it. Straw acts as an insulator in the winter, therefore people living in cold climates might consider it. Chickens enjoy scratching in the straw which adds to their enjoyment. It is, however, ineffective in odor management and necessitates frequent bedding changes to avoid respiratory diseases in chickens.

 

Grass clippings

 

Grass-clipping-for-chicken-coop-run-bedding

If you're looking for a free option, grass clippings are an excellent idea. They are all-natural bedding that can keep chickens entertained and occupied for days while they hunt for seeds and bugs. They also help to reduce odors and are an excellent way to compost. However, it must be replaced regularly because it rots rapidly and quickly. Make certain that no insecticides are sprayed on the grass clippings.

 

 

 

Each type of bedding has advantages and disadvantages for your consideration, and you can make a decision based on the needs of your flock. Whatever chicken bedding you choose, your flock's health and happiness should be your top focus.

Reading next

all common chicken breeds
chickens are free ranging outdoor in the winter morning

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published.

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.