Choosing Bedding For Chickens

There are many options if you are looking for bedding for your chickens. Some of these include newspapers, shavings, and creosote. It is also important to consider the climate of your area. For example, if you are in a place where it is cold all year, you may wish to consider a different type of bedding for your chickens.

Shavings

Pine shavings are one of the most commonly used materials for bedding for chickens. This is because they are affordable, easily available, and relatively absorbent. But they can also be toxic to chickens.

Other materials, such as hay, can also be used. However, hay isn’t as absorbent as wood shavings and may contain bacteria and pathogens. Alternatively, grass clippings can be used. They are free and are a great way to keep the coop clean.

Another popular type of bedding material is pine needles. These are easy to find and inexpensive but can be harmful to chickens. They can cause respiratory problems, especially in infant chicks.
Other options include straw and shredded leaves. Both of these materials can be composted. They aren’t as absorbent as wood shavings but can help clean the coop.

Straw

Straw is commonly used as a bedding material for chickens. It’s inexpensive, easy to clean, and can insulate a chicken run.
Unlike hay, which can be moldy and fungal, straw can be recycled and added to a compost pile. It’s not the best option for a chicken coop, however.

One downside is that it is often difficult to remove. It can also become wet and soiled when rain or snow falls. It’s important to remove it regularly.

A good way to clean your straw is to purchase a droppings tray. This keeps large amounts of poop out of the bedding. You can use a taping knife or scraper to ensure your trays are empty.
You can also spread zeolite crystals on your straw to absorb moisture and provide a healthier environment for your chickens. In addition, using these zeolite crystals will help keep ammonia and odors at bay.

Hemp

Hemp bedding for chickens is a growing trend. It can save you money and provide a healthier environment for your birds. This material also repels insects and has several other benefits.
Hemp is a natural substance and can be easily grown. Unlike some materials, it does not contain harmful pesticides. It is organic and does not require any chemical treatments.

It is one of the most absorbent material options and is a great option for any chicken coop. It keeps your coop clean and free from dust. This is especially important, as the respiratory system of your chickens is delicate.

Hemp is highly effective at absorbing feces and is better at wicking moisture than other bedding options. This makes cleaning easy. It can even reduce the amount of ammonia produced by your chickens.

Newspaper

Choosing the right type of bedding for your chickens can be tricky. The best bet is to look for something absorbent, low-maintenance, and will last a long time. The good news is that there are plenty of options out there.

Pine shavings are a popular choice, sold in many feed and pet supply stores. They are lightweight, easy to rake and boast good odor control. They are also cheap and easy to find.

Another option is recycled paper. You can also purchase shredded newspaper and use it as a chicken bed. The cheapest of the bunch, however, is probably straw. This isn’t the best material for a chicken coop.

Old newspapers can work, but they’ll quickly get sticky. They also have a tendency to stick to hen’s butts. Plus, the ink in the paper can be toxic.