When I first started raising chickens, I used traditional wooden nesting boxes with straw bedding. However, I quickly realized that this method was not very practical for me. The straw got messy quickly and was hard to clean, and the wooden boxes were difficult to move around.
So, I began researching alternative nesting box options and came across the idea of using milk crates. But with this method, I was faced with the question of whether to use nesting pads or bedding.
In this article, I will explore the pros and cons of using nesting pads in milk crate nesting boxes.
The Benefits of Using Milk Crates as Nesting Boxes:
Using milk crates as nesting boxes is becoming increasingly popular among backyard chicken keepers. There are several benefits to this method:
- Cost-effective: Milk crates are relatively inexpensive and can often be found for free from local businesses or recycling centers.
- Easy to clean: Milk crates are made of plastic and can be easily hosed down and sanitized.
- Portable: Milk crates are lightweight and easy to move, which makes cleaning and rearranging your coop a breeze.
- Customizable: Milk crates come in a variety of sizes, which allows you to create nesting boxes that are perfectly suited to your flock’s needs.
The Pros and Cons of Using Nesting Pads:
Nesting pads are a popular alternative to traditional bedding for several reasons. Here are the pros and cons of using nesting pads in milk crate nesting boxes:
Pros:
- Cleanliness: Nesting pads are easy to clean and maintain, as they can be easily removed and replaced.
- Comfort: Nesting pads provide a soft and cushioned surface for your chickens to lay their eggs.
- Reduced Waste: Unlike traditional bedding, nesting pads do not need to be replaced as frequently, which reduces waste and saves money in the long run.
Cons:
- Initial Cost: Nesting pads can be more expensive than traditional bedding, especially if you have a large flock.
- Availability: Nesting pads may not be available at all feed stores, which could make it difficult to obtain them when needed.
- Durability: Nesting pads may not hold up as well as traditional bedding and may need to be replaced more frequently.
Alternative Flooring Options:
If you decide that nesting pads are not the right option for you, there are several other flooring options to consider:
- Straw: Straw is a traditional bedding option that is affordable and readily available. However, it can be messy and difficult to clean.
- Pine Shavings: Pine shavings are another popular bedding option. They are relatively affordable and easy to clean, but they can be dusty and may cause respiratory issues in chickens.
- Sand: Sand is a popular bedding option for outdoor coops, as it is easy to clean and does not hold moisture. However, it may not be the best option for indoor coops, as it can be messy and difficult to clean.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, using milk crates as nesting boxes is a great way to provide your chickens with a comfortable and practical laying area. When it comes to choosing between nesting pads and bedding, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. Nesting pads may be more expensive, but they offer several benefits such as cleanliness and reduced waste. However, traditional bedding options like straw and pine shavings are still viable options to consider. Ultimately, the most important thing is to provide your chickens with a clean, safe, and comfortable environment to lay their eggs.
