straw vs. wood chips?

[norahsmommy]

What are the pros and cons of straw and wood chips used as bedding? My grandfather in law used straw for his chickens and he still gets it free from all the local stores that use bales of it in decoration. They give it to him instead of throwing it away. It would be wonderful to get bedding for free, but I am not sure I want to use it. I would think wood chips would be nicer and easer to keep clean but I don't know where to get it that it wouldn't cost a bundle. Also, which breaks down better to use as compost? Which do you like better and why?

 

[Jenski]

Many previous threads on this ~

I prefer wood shavings, ideally Aspen since there are few essential oils. Some folks use pine. Not many would recommend cedar.

In my opinion straw gets too mucky, moldy and is very difficult to clean out.

 

[Teach97]

I would bet straw breaks down better...I have used both...never got either free...for a floor I prefer chips...for cages I prefer straw.

 

[horsejody]

I think that straw might compost easier, but it holds more moisture so has to be cleaned out of the coop more often.

 

[EllyMae]

Quote:
I second that !

 

[the1much]

i put straw down first as an "insulation", it STAYS there better then chips,, then i put chips on top of that.
chips = lose easyily
straw = gets yucky fast and doesnt soak up liquid.

i do this in both coops and nests.

 

[supermom]

I use straw because it is MUCH cheaper than the wood chips in my area.

 

[ChickNChicken]

I use CareFresh, looks like shredded paper but it's made
from reclaimed wood pulp. It really seems to work well. But,
I'm new at this (my three Dominiques, my first-ever chickens,
are almost six months old) so am open to hearing if that's
a good or bad idea.

 

[RW19290]

Quote:
I like wood chips or shavings because its easier to clean out. Trust me, I've experienced with all sorts of bedding. I've also heard that parasites can hide in the small holes of straw. scary!

 

[al6517]

I use my leftover litter in a compost for the garden and flower beds, so straw hay is a better choice for me, it does break down better and I bale all I can use on my farm so it is economical also. it just boils down to what ever works best for you with all things considered.
AL