The age-old argument, which bedding is best for chickens? Hay, Straw, or Shavings?
In this article, we will compare the three most popular bedding types – Hay, Straw, and Shavings. First, we will go into each one and how they measure up, then we will have a discussion on which type would be right for you!
Is Hay Good for Chicken Bedding?
In total, Hay is a good source of bedding for chickens. Hay is a type of dried grass that is high in protein and often used as animal feed. Hay is also quite soft, which means it may not provide as much cushioning as other materials. I’ve used hay for quite some time since I also have cows and I have plenty of it readily available, however, if it’s not available around your farm it can be quite expensive.
I’ve never really had any issue with this as long as the hay is fresh and doesn’t get wet. If you’ve let your hay sit up for quite some time or get rained on, then you could cause some problems trying to use it as bedding at that point due to mildew buildup. Also, people tend to use a lot of fertilizer on their fields for hay, which can cause some allergic reactions amongst chickens, so make sure you know where your hay comes from!
Advantages of Hay
- Readily available
- Adequate Bedding
Disadvantages of Hay
- Expensive if not readily available
- Prone to mildew
- Can cause allergic reactions if it’s obtained from a heavily fertilized field
- Will ruin if it gets wet
Is Straw Good for Chicken Bedding?
Straw is an excellent choice for chicken bedding. Straw is made from the stems of grains like wheat, oats, and barley, is less expensive than hay and often used as bedding. It is more absorbent than hay, which means it can keep the coop drier. If straw gets wet, you can stir it up, and it can be reused – unlike hay or shavings. However, straw is not as soft as hay and may not be as comfortable for your chickens.
If you live in a cold environment, I would strongly recommend straw. Straw is able to absorb and retain heat much better than hay or shavings. When your chickens go to lay eggs, they will heat up the eggs and straw. This keeps the eggs nice and toasty so they don’t freeze in cooler environments. Also, the added heat is a great way to keep your chickens warm and happy. For more tips on keeping your hens warm in winter, I wrote an entire article with 8 tips on keeping your chickens warm in cold environments!
Advantages of Straw
- The cheapest option if you’re having to purchase bedding
- Not as prone to ruining from becoming wet
- The best option for cool environments to keep eggs and chickens warm
- Chickens tend not to waste as much as other types of bedding
Disadvantages of Straw
- Not as soft as hay, so chickens may not be as comfortable
Are Wood Shavings Good for Chicken Bedding?
Wood shavings are a viable material for chicken bedding Wood shavings are made from a variety of wood species, and are another option for chicken bedding. Wood shavings are absorbent, and provide good cushioning for your birds. Shavings also have the advantage of producing less dust than hay or straw, which can be beneficial for chickens with respiratory issues. Also, unlike hay or straw, these come in a bag and can be picked up on your way home from work in a car.
I’ve tested out wood shavings amongst my chickens in the past and my biggest complaint is the sheer amount of shavings that chickens tend to waste by scratching at them. I can fill up the nesting areas, and in an hour, half of it is on the ground. Also, like hay, wood shavings are very prone to getting wet and becoming ruined. Wood shavings also tend to be the most expensive bedding to purchase from the store.
Advantages of Wood Shavings
- Produces less dust than other forms of bedding
- Convenient to grab on your way home no matter what vehicle you drive
- Provides a comfortable cushion for the bedding environment
Disadvantages of Wood Shavings
- The most expensive bedding option
- Chickens will waste a lot of the shavings by scratching them out of the nesting areas
- Prone to getting wet and ruined
Hay, Straw, or Shavings? What’s Best?
In total, straw is the best bedding for chickens. It’s cheap, not prone to ruining if wet, great for cold environments, and the least amount wasted by chickens. The only real disadvantage to straw is chickens may not be as comfortable, but it’s really hard to ask the chickens if they are comfortable or not!
While straw is the best bedding, you may have hay or shavings that are readily available – and by all means, if they are, go for it! Also, It really depends on your specific needs and budget. Hay can be a great choice if you have the budget for it and your chickens are not prone to respiratory problems. Wood shavings could be a good option for you if you drive a car or other vehicle without a bed to load the hay or straw in, as shavings are easily transported.
Conclusion
No matter which material you choose, it’s important to keep the coop clean and dry. Wet bedding can harbor harmful bacteria and attract pests like mites and rodents. Make sure to clean out the coop regularly and add fresh bedding as needed.
In conclusion, hay, straw, and wood shavings are all viable options for chicken bedding. Consider your budget, your chickens’ health, and your own preferences when deciding which material to use. With proper care and attention to their bedding needs, your chickens will be happy, healthy, and comfortable in their coop.