How often should I clean my new chicks shavings?

[Shellbeegr8]

Hello, my husband and I are first time chick parents and seem to be at unable to agree on how often we should clean out the broodbox. He is of the opinion we should just add new shavings on top of the old, and "layer". I being an over protective mother, want to completely remove the old soiled shavings and replace with clean ones at least 2x a wk. I would be ok with the "layering" if they were out doors and we could crate a deep mulch system, but in a cardboard box there is no where for it to go. I am worried about illness. Since neither of us has ever raised chicks, I'd appreciate any suggestions. Thanks.

 

[sunflour]

so glad you have joined us and congrats on getting your own baby chicks.

I agree with you, best to keep their brooder clean as possible. Depending on how many you have and the size of the brooder once a week may be enough. They will be living there for awhile - wouldn't want them to get in a habit of eating the poop

 

[eggbert420]

Both of you make good points, how many chicks do you have? Cardboard is hard to clean. I would suggest a wooden box or a tote. The tote is my choice because its plastic and easy to sanitize. Others here will say wood. Its all preference.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, Shellbeegr8, and

! Happy you joined our flock! I think the conventional wisdom leans more to your way of thinking - particularly when the chicks are young. Here's an article from the Learning Center that discusses raising baby chicks: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/...ks-the-first-60-days-of-raising-baby-chickens
And here's a link to some additional chick articles: https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/hatching-eggs-and-raising-chicks
And for for baby chick questions you can post here: https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/11/raising-baby-chicks
Best wishes to you and your flock and thanks for joining BYC!!

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC - you have some great advice and very good links from redsoxs, so I'll just say hello!

All the best
CT

 

[Shellbeegr8]

Thank you so much for the warm welcome and great suggestions.

 

[N F C]

Thanks for joining us, have fun with the little ones!

 

[Teila]

G’Day from down under Shellbeegr8

Welcome!

As you have already received some great advice and links to some good starting points, I will just wish you all the best.

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun.

If you would like to share pictures and stories of your flock, you have come to the right place. BYC’ers never tire of these and do not back away slowly or commence eye rolling when the photo album or home videos come out

 

[drumstick diva]