For those of you who have tried both in egg cartons, and just having the eggs on their side in the incubator, which seems to be the best way? I've never tried the egg carton method. I'm considering it this time, but not convinced it's best. (Heaven forbid we should try something new!! ) I thought they needed to be able to move around while hatching. Is it more difficult for them to get out of the egg when it's on end in the carton? Those of you who have tried both ways, and don't use the cartons - why do you prefer not to use them? I'm just very curious about everyone's methods and opinions... No right or wrong answers here!
I've only used egg cartons and been very happy with this method. The chicks don't seem to have any problems launching themselves out of the zipped shells when the time comes. I like that it keeps the bator cleaner, most of the shell and residual debris ends up staying in the bottom of the shell in the carton, not getting all over the bator "floor". I recently read a suggestion that the styrofoam cartons are better as they can be sanitized before use, but I've always used new pulp cartons from the feed store, misted with an oxine solution, and not had any problems. Edited to add: Looks like I may be trying the other method, too https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/640613/air-sac-on-the-side
I've done both ways. I like the egg cartons better because the ones that hatch first don't knock the other eggs around like bowling balls. lol Mine have had no problem getting out of the shells in the cartons. What is really funny is if there are any open holes in the carton, after the little ones hatch and dry off I've seen them jump back up and sit in the empty holes. lol Looks so dern cute. Whole lot less mess in bators also. Good luck to you how ever you do yours. Either way works fine. Just what your preference is. Jim
Thank you for your replies. I think I'm going to give it a try. The less mess part of it sounds fantastic!
