Types of Sand for coop

[OhioClucker]

Looking to change my coop bedding from pine shavings to sand. What type(s) of sand is the best or doesn't it matter?
Thanks!

 

[Trefoil]

The best is free. Cheap comes next.

 

[OhioClucker]

The best is free. Cheap comes next.

Couldn't agree more. How much do you put in at one time and how fast do you go through it?

 

[chynasparks]

Free is always best. But in my situation I can't get free. I bought playsand $3.43 for 50 pound bag mixed and alpurpose sand for few cents more, 60 pound bag. I lauded 5bags all together in my 4x8 run. Covered it nicely. They love it. Also mixed in sweet PDZ and some DE, no odor! I scoop like kitty litter regularly. I should not have to change it for a year. It hasn't been a year but that's the idea. It drains off when wet and dries back to sand. My sitation, the coop is on concrete and the sand is 3 inches thick.

 

[sn0wwhite]

Is it ok to use black dirt, or is that not recommended? I bought 6 cubic yards for my garden, but I have enough leftover.

 

[Spikes Chooks]

It won't drain as well or be as easy to clean. I bought Coarse River Sand here in Sydney and it cost around $200 (roughly the same in US$) to put about 4 inches in my run which is 12 feet x 6 feet. It drains really really well and is quick and easy to clean with a kitty litter scooper. Avoid beach sand as it may be too salty (and they will eat it as grit). I have only had to top it up with one bag (20kg) after a year of use. I really recommend it!