Pack N Play Brooder?

[MyShunshyn]

We are expecting out babies to arrive around the 26th and I was planning on using an old pack n play for a brooder, would this work? Or should I try to figure out something else? We are getting 16 chicks.
I have to keep them in the garage and there is not a lot space so I am trying to figure the best and safest for my new babies..... So excited!

 

[minor_danger]

I considered using a pack and play but it was too big for my needs. I have read on here many people use and love it as a brooder. I suppose you could use a towel on the sides if your garage is drafty. Personally I would be slightly worried about heat lamps and cloth, BUT, I'm a worrier and I am positive that you can make it safe. If you do go this route, I would love to hear about it in case I ever need to use a brooder this large. Good luck.

 

[onesweetfarm]

I am considering using an old pack n play that I have in the hay loft when my chicks outgrow their current brooder. It was actually my mother's idea. I worry about the heat lamps no matter what, I just make sure that they are very secure to a non flamable surface. Let me know if it works out for you.

 

[Newchickparents]

Oh that is a good idea, I was thinking about using one of those too. We are getting our fuzzy butts on 15th...But I think I'm using the dog kennel we have. I would love to hear how it turns out.

 

[MyShunshyn]

Thanks for the encouragement and I will keep ya posted.

Anyone else have experience with using a pck n play for a brooder?

 

[Highlander]

Yep, I've been using them for ages now. I put a bit of board on the bottom to make it more stable and it's easier to clean up too. They do get trashed after a few hatches but it easy to find them locally second hand.

 

[Cass]

If I were going to use a pack and play for a brooder I would seriously consider the ecoglow warmer instead of a heat lamp. It uses a LOT less energy to run and won't start a fire.

And now that you bring it up, I'm off to CL to see if anyone is giving away a free pack and play...cuz I think it's a WONDERFUL idea if you are brooding inside so there isn't any or much of a draft.

And I am going to put in a piece of wood in it like someone suggested. I seem to have some laying around, left from building my coop.

 

[Hollywood Chickens]

I never thought of using one of those! it looks like it would be perfect.

 

[bs288]

I used a pack n play it worked great

 

[MyShunshyn]

What did you use to make that screen top? And is your light just sitting on it?....looks great!