Deep litter method question

[chipahoy4]

Hi everyone, I have read a lot about the deep litter method and am still confused about what to use. First of all I have a coop that I am just finishing that is about 12 x 5. The enclosed coop is on one end and is raised about 19" off of the ground to give more room. The question that I have is what do you use for the deep litter system as far as materials. I know about pine shavings and dried leaves, but also heard that hay and straw and grass clippings can be used. Wouldn't the straw, grass clippings and hay start to rot to fast and also harbor unwanted bug pests. I am not really sure what other materials to use. I also heard of using sand, but would that be for only the run or would you also use inside of the coop enclosure. Mine has a plywood floor. Under the roosts I was planning to build a 3" high box, maube 2 feet by 5 feet and put a couple inches of sand in it to dry out the poop and make it easier to scoop out. This box would be covered by 1/2" by 1/2" hardware cloth to keep them out of it. The chicks will be entering their new home in about a week and a half. Thanks for any info.

 

[nbenevento]

I used to use pine shavings but I switched over to sand and I am very happy with it. I use it in the coop and some in the run. I have a kitty litter scooper and do a quick clean up every day when I let them out in the mornings or when I collect the eggs. I really recommend sand.

 

[moetrout]

I use pine shavings (no Cedar!). I start with a good 4 inches for a base layer after a clean out. I add to it as they poop it up and also dust with DE to help dry it up and control insects. The stuff in my coop right now is at least 8 months old! I have not had time to do a spring clean out. Does it have an oder, yes. Is it gross, stinky and full on flies.....not at all! If you don't work and have lots of time on your hands then you can clean you coop daily. I personally don't have time for that. Deep litter by necessity!

 

[4 the Birds]

If you make a poop board or sand box below the roost bars then I would nix the hardware screen just above it. Too much poop will collect on the mesh and warrant frequent cleaning. Chickens are good about avoiding the poo piles below the roost bars and hopefully your design has it secluded from any traffic areas. You will not be happy with straw and hay used in the floor material. Especially hay will retain moisture and smell. Add pine chips several inches deep and add under the roost bar every few days or so. You can then shovel the piles out every few weeks and replace with fresh chips. Some like to use sand in the coop and rake or sift clean every day. If you have over a dozen chickens then I would for sure go with the deep litter method unless you have plenty of free time to clean.