Sealing nesting boxes

[Winnie123]

Sorry if I posted this question twice, I am new to this sight and I think I posted it in the wrong spot the first time. So here it is again. Has anyone used any kind of sealant inside of their wooden nesting boxes to make for easier cleanup from anything gross that might get in there like broken eggs or whatever? My chicks aren’t old enough to lay yet (actually they are still in the brooder) but I was thinking about putting some kind of really thick wood sealant in them to make them easier to wipe clean. Do I need to worry about chemicals if enough time is given to let them air out before the chicks get put out there? Is it worth it? Will it stand up to them scratching at it? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[blackdog043]

If your nest boxes are flat on the bottom, the easiest thing IMO, is use a piece of vinyl flooring cut to fit. You could have a few spare pieces, so you could replace a fresh one and clean the dirty one later.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Another option that's easy/free is to reuse empty feed bags. Fold them to fit the nest box floor, then add bedding of your choice. The bags provide extra cushion to help prevent breakage. If you do get a broken egg, simply lift out the bag with mess and all, and toss it.