Best Coop Bedding

[Ridgerunner]

I have read many tales of which is the right and wrong kind of bedding for the coop and run.
I am in the process of building our first coop. would like to start off on the right foot so to speak.

We all have our personal preferences. Just because I prefer something doesn't mean it's right for you.

We all have different coops, runs, management techniques, and climates. How wet or dry does your coop or run stay? How well does your run drain? How often will you clean it out and how will you dispose of it when you clean? Is your coop elevated or on the ground. All these can influence what is best for you.

I believe bedding needs to be readily available and relatively inexpensive. I don't even know what country you are in, let alone whether you are urban or rural.

I know this doesn't help you much. My suggestion is to try to find someone who has conditions somewhat similar to yours and see what they use. That requires you telling us something about your conditions Or see what is available and try it. If it doesn't work out come back with what the problems are and we might have specific suggestions. Those suggestions might not be about what bedding to use but how it is used. Sometimes it doesn't matter what you use, sometimes it does.

 

[slordaz]

Welcome to BYC, so eggcited to have you here.

there is no perfect one just what you and your hens prefer, just do not use Cedar, mine luckily are pretty easy going and it keeps them entertained the roost side of coop I don't put anything down until winter it's got rubberized material on floor and wall so can use the pressure washer on it , with exception I do add in a mixture of pine bedding and hay during the winter for added warmth, on the other side they took over I use just straw during the winter , spring through fall if it's raining a lot I put grass clippings in front of the coop area and they have fun with that, did not add a perch in there as it had a shelf as was made to store stuff and tools lol.

 

[Folly's place]

Here in Michigan the bagged pine shavings, with a little hay or straw, work fine for my coop and covered run. The local feed store has bigger less expensive bags of shavings than TSC, so do shop around a bit.
Do avoid cedar shavings, or the cocoa hulls from chocolate makers!
In very dry climates, very few birds, and daily poop scooping, sand may work at least that first year. I'd avoid it myself!
Managing to avoid excessive moisture and having good coop ventilation are most important!
Mary