{"id":3499,"date":"2023-03-22T03:26:22","date_gmt":"2023-03-22T03:26:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/beta5.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/?p=3499"},"modified":"2023-03-24T08:49:33","modified_gmt":"2023-03-24T08:49:33","slug":"chicken-coop-bedding","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/chicken-coop-bedding\/","title":{"rendered":"Chicken Coop Bedding"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||20px||true|false&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row admin_label=&#8221;Row&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><strong>Hey there, chicken lovers! Here at Chicken Coops Delivered, we often get asked the question, \u201cWhat should I put on the floor of my coop?\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>When deciding what bedding to use in your coop, here are a few things to keep in mind:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Moisture Control<\/li>\n<li>Bacteria\u00a0and Fungal Growth<\/li>\n<li>Insulation<\/li>\n<li>Rodent and Insect Control<\/li>\n<li>Dust Baths\u00a0and Scratching<\/li>\n<li>Clean, Healthy Environment<\/li>\n<li>Clean-Up\u00a0and Maintenance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>So sit down, grab your reading glasses, and get egg-cited because we have\u00a0provided a list of suitable materials to help inspire you and your coop!<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;|700|||||||&#8221; header_2_font_size=&#8221;32px&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>SAND<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Sand seems to provide the best<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>moisture control<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>in your coop and facilitates the least amount of bacteria and fungal growth. Sand actually removes moisture from the chicken droppings leaving your coop fresher, drier, and cleaner than most other materials.<\/p>\n<p>Sand also does a fantastic job at keeping<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>flies, insects, and rodents out of the coop<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>because it does not retain moisture, rot, or decay.<\/p>\n<p>Sand provides great<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>temperature control<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>as well. It keeps your coop warm in the winter and cool in the summer. In cold weather, sand inside the coop will stay dry and dust-bath ready. In wet climates, the water drains through the sand, eliminating water puddles and material decomposition from happening.<\/p>\n<p>Sand is also\u00a0<strong>great for your chickens!<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>It not only provides your chickens with a fantastic<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>dust bath<\/strong>, but sand is used as grit in your chicken\u2019s gizzard and thus<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>beneficial to their digestive system<\/strong>. A win win!<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>PROS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#6aa84f&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Moisture Control<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713\u00a0Temperature Control<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Healthy for Chickens<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Rodent and Insect Control<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Good in Cold and Wet Climates<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>CONS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#cc0000&#8243; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Heavy \/ Harder Clean-Up<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Possible Health Effects<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Not Compostable<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>While sand is an excellent addition to permanent coop floors that sit on the ground, it may not be the best option for removable coop floors due to its<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>heaviness<\/strong>.\u00a0The heavy nature also makes for a<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>harder, more laborious clean-up<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Although sand is good for your chicken&#8217;s gizzard, they may mistakenly eat sand that is mixed in with their droppings. This could possibly lead to health issues, such as E.coli.<\/p>\n<p>Sand<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>cannot be composted<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>in your garden, which is certainly a deal breaker for some.<\/p>\n<p><em><span>NOTE:<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span>Be sure to use<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>NATURAL<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>sand. You do not want to use manufactured sand. Manufactured sand is undesirable for dust bathing or chicken litter for that matter.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||20px||true|false&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;|700|||||||&#8221; header_2_font_size=&#8221;32px&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2><strong>STRAW<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>Straw<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span>seems to be the most popular material used in chicken coops primarily due to its<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>convenience<\/strong>. Most farms have an abundance of straw, so it is a quick and easy way to reuse and repurpose what you already have. However, if you have urban chickens, convenience might not be at play here.<\/p>\n<p>Straw maintains a light and fluffy space and is a much<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>lighter clean up<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>than sand. Straw provides a nice layer of<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>insulation<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>against the floor and not to mention, chickens love to<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>scratch<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>play<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>in it!<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>PROS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#6aa84f&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Convenient<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Good Insulation<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Lightweight<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Fun for Chickens<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>CONS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#cc0000&#8243; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 May Be Dangerous for Chickens<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Not Highly Absorbent<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Frequent Clean U<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Straw, especially if it is not chopped, can block your chickens digestive route and cause an<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>impacted crop<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Straw is<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>not as absorbent<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>as other materials and does not control moisture very well. Which reduces its effectiveness at keeping insects, bacteria, and fungus out.<\/p>\n<p>It can be<strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>difficult to clean up<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>due to its clumping and matting nature. It needs to be replaced frequently because it may harbor toxins and odors that can be harmful to your chickens<\/p>\n<p><em><span>NOTE:<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span>Make sure to use<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>chopped<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>straw! Straw that is not chopped can cause crop impaction in your chickens, and tends to mat easily when mixed with manure, which holds moisture.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||20px||true|false&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;|700|||||||&#8221; header_2_font_size=&#8221;32px&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>PINE SHAVINGS<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Pine shavings fall in the middle of the spectrum between sand and straw. Although\u00a0<strong>not as absorbent as sand<\/strong>, they do a better job at soaking in moisture than straw.<\/p>\n<p>Pine shavings do a decent job at<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>insulating your coop<\/strong>, they are a great<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>low cost option<\/strong>, and a great choice if you are using the<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>deep litter method<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>or plan to<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>compost<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>your coop material.<\/p>\n<p>Pine shavings<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>neutralize odor<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and create a<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>nice smell<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>of pine in your coop. The shavings create a<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>fluffy, fresh, and soft look and feel<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>in your coop that many people (and your chickens) love.<\/p>\n<p>Pine shavings are good for both raised coops and coops on the ground. They are<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>lightweight<\/strong>, and are easy to transport and store!<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>PROS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#6aa84f&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Moderately Dry and Absorbent<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Good Insulation<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Low Cost<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Compostable<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Great Look and Feel<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Lightweight<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>CONS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#cc0000&#8243; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 May be Harmful to Chickens<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Super Dusty<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Pine shavings have been reported to be<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>toxic to chickens<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>(especially chicks).\u00a0However, the jury is still out on this, so make sure to do your research before choosing this material.<\/p>\n<p>Pine shavings are also<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>incredibly dusty,\u00a0<\/strong>which is not only a nuisance when it comes to keeping a clean coop, but the dust may also cause<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>respiratory problems<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>for both you and your chickens. We recommend finding \u201cdust extracted\u201d pine shavings to help with this problem.<\/p>\n<p><em><span>NOTE:<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span>Do not use cedar shavings! Cedar shavings give off toxic fumes that can cause asthma and respiratory illness in your chickens. Also, make sure to buy untreated shavings as the chemicals on treated wood are harmful to your chickens.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||20px||true|false&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;|700|||||||&#8221; header_2_font_size=&#8221;32px&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>SHREDDED PAPER<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>While shredded paper is not the most common material to use, some chicken lovers\u00a0<strong>resort to it when needed<\/strong>. Shredded paper does the job until you can get regular bedding for your coop. It can also be easily mixed with other types of material to create more bedding in a pinch.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Shredded paper is<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>free!<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>You can find and gather all kinds of recyclable paper, such as newspaper or office paper to shred, with the only cost being labor!<\/p>\n<p>Shredded paper can definitely be<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>composted<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and earthworms love it.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>PROS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#6aa84f&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Free<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Good in a Pinch<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Mixes Easily with Other Materials<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>CONS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#cc0000&#8243; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Can be Toxic to Chickens<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Not Long Lasting<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>The ink on shredded paper<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>may be toxic for chickens to digest<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and office paper tends to be heavily treated and processed.<\/p>\n<p>Paper<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>will not last long<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>in your coop<\/strong>. It is not very absorbent and when wet, it becomes matted and slick making for a messy and difficult clean up.<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||20px||true|false&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;|700|||||||&#8221; header_2_font_size=&#8221;32px&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>ORGANIC MATTER<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Organic matter is the<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>most natural litter<span>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>choice\u00a0because it is what you would naturally find outside.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Grass clippings<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>can be used if you have enough, but make sure the grass has not been sprayed with pesticides or any other chemicals.<\/p>\n<p>Chickens enjoy almost anything<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>from the garden<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>as well. Weeds, greens, lettuce, clover, and even broccoli will all win you brownie points with your chickens.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Leaves<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>are also an option for your coop. Using leaves on the floor of your coop is<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>free of cost<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and\u00a0is a big money saver, especially for larger coops. Chickens enjoy<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>playing<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>scratching<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>in leaves, and there are typically yummy bugs in there for them to eat too!<\/p>\n<p>Leaves are a great starter to the<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>deep litter method,<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and also are<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>great in your compost!<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; make_equal=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>PROS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#6aa84f&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Free<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Natural<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2713 Compostable<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#eeeeee&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px|20px|20px|20px|true|true&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_3_font=&#8221;Montserrat|700|||||||&#8221; header_3_text_color=&#8221;#000000&#8243; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3>CONS:<\/h3>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;#cc0000&#8243; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Retains Moisture<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span>\u2715 Breaks Down Quickly<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Montserrat||||||||&#8221; text_font_size=&#8221;16px&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>Leaves are not great when wet. They will actually retain<strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>moisture<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>instead of absorbing the moisture, which may lead to<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>mold<\/strong><span>\u00a0<\/span>and<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>odor problems<\/strong>. Leaves also tend to mat down when wet, which makes a slippery surface that\u00a0can lead to chicken injuries.<\/p>\n<p>Leaves break down more quickly than other materials, so you may have to<span>\u00a0<\/span><strong>add or change out the bedding more frequently<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p><em><span>NOTE:<\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span>Try not to use a lot of oak leaves! They contain<span>\u00a0<\/span><span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/chickenandchicksinfo.com\/can-chickens-eat-acorns\/\" title=\"Tannins in oak leaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">tannins<\/a><\/strong><\/span><span>\u00a0<\/span>that can be harmful to your chickens if they eat too many.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; da_disable_devices=&#8221;off|off|off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; da_is_popup=&#8221;off&#8221; da_exit_intent=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_close=&#8221;on&#8221; da_alt_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_dark_close=&#8221;off&#8221; da_not_modal=&#8221;on&#8221; da_is_singular=&#8221;off&#8221; da_with_loader=&#8221;off&#8221; da_has_shadow=&#8221;on&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_divider color=&#8221;rgba(124,10,9,0.16)&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; header_2_font=&#8221;Montserrat|800|||||||&#8221; header_2_text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; header_2_text_color=&#8221;#7C0A09&#8243; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h2>RELATED ARTICLES<\/h2>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_blog fullwidth=&#8221;off&#8221; posts_number=&#8221;3&#8243; include_categories=&#8221;70&#8243; show_author=&#8221;off&#8221; show_categories=&#8221;off&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.2&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_blog][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hey there, chicken lovers! Here at Chicken Coops Delivered, we often get asked the question, \u201cWhat should I put on the floor of my coop?\u201d When deciding what bedding to use in your coop, here are a few things to keep in mind: Moisture Control Bacteria\u00a0and Fungal Growth Insulation Rodent and Insect Control Dust Baths\u00a0and [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3500,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"2880","footnotes":""},"categories":[70],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3499","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-chicken-university"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3499","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3499"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3499\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3500"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3499"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3499"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/beta10.technodreamcenter.com\/chickencoopsdelivered.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3499"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}