What should I use for bedding?

[3littlebirds]

My 3 young pullets (first one just started laying) are currently in a pen in my garage, but I am in the process of converting my shed into a chicken coop. I did a complete cleanout yesterday, so now I just really need to put up the door and add the bedding before I can move them in.
Avoiding chemicals/pesticides is very important to me, which is why I would like to avoid using straw in the future. I am using straw now, but it is a byproduct of industrial agriculture (wheat, I think) and contains pesticide residues. For the bedding in the new coop I am considering pine shavings, dry leaves, and pine needles, as these are all pesticide free (I found a source of pine shavings that does not use sawmill byproducts, just in case). Out of these three options or any other "natural" beddings, which would be the best?
Thanks

 

[newchicksnducks]

I like my pine shavings. I can fluf them up, turn them over, and they're good to go! I just cleaned the coop out (or rather my two wonderful kids!) after 7+ months with shavings and 13 hens...it's worked great. Another con with straw is that it is hollow. Makes great insulation, but it also provides a place for mites to live Just MHO

 

[3littlebirds]

Thanks- I think I might do pine shavings
Any opinions on dry leaves or pine needles (

I can get these for free)

 

[QuackerOats]

I don't think dry leaves and pine needles would be very absorbent. Pine needles are pointy too!

 

[BarredBuff]

I use sawdust for the floor its easier for me to cleanout. As for the nests I use cedar chips because cedar is supposed to repell mites.

 

[merryberry]

What about sand? There are several threads floating around the forums that I've read from people who are very happy using sand in coops and runs. I'm a newbie, but I've been using it in my brooder, and it has lived up to its reputation so far.

 

[fiddlebanshee]

Quote:
Isn't the resin in cedar chips toxic for chickens?

 

[QuackerOats]

Quote:
Isn't the resin in cedar chips toxic for chickens?

I think its bad for their respiratory system.... or something.

 

[elmo]

I have a friend who puts a handful of cedar shavings at the bottom of his nests for mite repellant, then pine shavings on top. He does not use all cedar because of the risk of toxic fumes.