The Best Chicken Coop Bedding Materials

We all love that feeling of sinking into a comfy bed after a long day. Our chickens are no different. They want a safe and comfy place to sleep as much as we do. In order to make that space, we first need to create bedding out of the best materials.

Here we discuss some of the top bedding materials you can use for your chicken coop:

Straw

If ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Straw is one of the most common types of bedding, and for a good reason! Not only is it easy to acquire, but it’s also extremely warm and springy. On top of that, it’s fun for your chickens, as many hens enjoy spending their time scratching and playing in straw. Straw can be difficult to clean, though, forcing you to replace it more often than not.

Pine or cedar shavings

Another favorite bedding is shavings. Made out of pine or cedar, they are easy to find and easy to clean. As a result, you won’t have to replace shavings as much as straw, and you won’t have to deal with any odors. Shavings can be more expensive, though, and they are dusty, potentially leading to respiratory issues.

Sand

Sand is not for the faint of heart, but for those who do use it, you will find an easy to clean and nearly odorless bedding. Sand is mostly used with the deep-litter method, as the sand just has to be turned over in order to be used again. It is also a great material to use for chickens who enjoy daily dust baths. Nevertheless, sand is higher maintenance, and it’s less comfortable than other types of bedding. Additionally, it’s similar to shavings in that it could lead to respiratory issues.

For more tips and tricks, read through our blog or contact Chickens for Backyards today!