RentACoop Extra-Soft Premium Hemp Bedding 300L - Super Absorbent, Low Dust, Natural Odor Control for Chicken Coops, Nest Boxes, Small Animal
- BULK 300L BALE - cost effective COVERAGE: 300L bale expands to approx. 10.6 cu ft and covers about 60 sq ft at 2-inch depth. Ideal for chicken coops, brooders, nesting boxes and small animal enclosures. Ideal for large f
- EXTRA-SOFT, ROUNDED FIBERS FOR COMFORT: Gentle on delicate feet, skin and feathers; ideal for chickens, ducks, brooder chicks, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and reptiles. Softer than traditional hemp for nesting boxes a
- 5X SUPER ABSORBENT & NATURAL ODOR CONTROL: Absorbs 5x more than pine shavings; locks more moisture than standard bedding, neutralizes ammonia, naturally controls odors. Performs exceptionally in damp, humid or winter con
- 100% NATURAL, COMPOSTABLE & SUSTAINABLE CHOICE: Made from pure hemp with no synthetic chemicals or pesticides. Fully biodegradable for garden compost. Safe for humans and animals. Offers an eco-friendly alternative to wo
- LOW DUST - HEALTHIER BEDDING OPTION: Produces significantly less dust than pine shavings or sawdust, helping reduce irritation and support better respiratory health for poultry and small animals. Naturally less hospitabl
All Walks 18.5 Liter Premium Natural Hemp Bedding, Odor Control, Low Dust, Highly Absorbent, for Rabbits, Hamsters, & Small Animals, Biodegr
- PET FRIENDLY - Our small animal hemp bedding is a sustainable alternative to paper bedding or wood shavings. Offering a low to no dust and natural choice for you and your pet. Made from 100% naturally grown hemp without
- VARIETY OF SPECIES - This pet bedding for small animal’s merits use with a variety of species including Poultry, Domestic rodents: Rabbits, Ferrets, Birds: Cockatoo, Macaw, Parrot and Reptiles: Large snakes, Iguana, Fril
- ODOR CONTROL & ABSORPTION All Walks Hemp Bedding offers premium absorption and odor control. Say goodbye to unwanted smells slipping through, now your companion’s enclosure will stay cleaner for longer.
- SUSTAINABLLY SOURCED - At All Walks we believe in sustainability, therefore our hemp bedding is produced 100% tree-free. Mindfully made from hemp, which sequesters more CO2 per acre than trees or other crops, our rapidly
- COMPOSTABLE CLEANUP - Hemp is one of the World’s most sustainable resources, making it a great and natural option for your furry friends. This earthy cage bedding option is not only effective but is also 100% biodegradab
All Walks 40 Liters(4 x 10L Bags) Premium Natural Hemp Bedding, Odor Control, Low Dust, Highly Absorbent, for Rabbits, Hamsters, & Small Ani
- PET FRIENDLY - Our small animal hemp bedding is a sustainable alternative to paper bedding or wood shavings. Offering a low to no dust and natural choice for you and your pet. Made from 100% naturally grown hemp without
- VARIETY OF SPECIES - This pet bedding is suitable for use with a variety of species of small animals. Including small rodents, small domestic birds, medium-sized reptiles and even invertebrates such as tarantulas and sco
- ODOR CONTROL & ABSORPTION All Walks Hemp Bedding offers premium absorption and odor control. Say goodbye to unwanted smells slipping through, now your companion’s enclosure will stay cleaner for longer.
- SUSTAINABLLY SOURCED - At All Walks we believe in sustainability, therefore our hemp bedding is produced 100% tree-free. Mindfully made from hemp, which sequesters more CO2 per acre than trees or other crops, our rapidly
- COMPOSTABLE CLEANUP - Hemp is one of the World’s most sustainable resources, making it a great and natural option for your furry friends. This earthy cage bedding option is not only effective but is also 100% biodegradab
Choosing the Right Chicken Coop Bedding
Maintaining a clean environment is the most important job for any backyard poultry keeper. The bedding inside chicken coop spaces acts as the primary defense against moisture, ammonia buildup, and parasites. When you choose the wrong substrate, you create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to severe health issues like bumblefoot or respiratory infections. Finding the right chicken coop bedding involves balancing cost, absorption, and ease of cleaning.
Many beginners start with whatever is available at the local feed store, but not all materials are created equal. Whether you are setting up your first run or looking to switch to a more efficient system, understanding the differences between pine shavings, sand, and hemp is vital for your long term success.
The Case for Pine Shavings for Chicken Coop Floors
Pine shavings for chicken coop setups have been the industry standard for decades. They are affordable, readily available, and generally easy to dispose of in a compost pile. You can typically find a large bale of kiln-dried pine shavings for around 8 to 12 dollars at most agricultural supply stores.
The primary benefit of using pine is its ability to provide a soft landing for hens jumping down from roosts. It also offers decent insulation during colder months. However, pine shavings have limitations. They tend to track easily into nesting boxes, and if they get wet from a spilled waterer, they can hold moisture and begin to smell quickly. If you choose this route, ensure your coop has proper air circulation. You can learn more about why airflow is critical by reading our guide on chicken coop ventilation.
Expert Insight on Wood Shavings
As a long-time breeder, I always recommend kiln-dried pine over cedar.
Hemp Chicken Bedding: The Modern Solution
In recent years, hemp chicken bedding has gained popularity for its superior performance. Unlike wood shavings, hemp is highly absorbent and naturally antimicrobial. It does not mold as easily as pine, which makes it a favorite for those living in humid climates or areas with long, wet winters.
For those looking for high quality options, the RentACoop Extra-Soft Premium Hemp Bedding 300L is a top pick. A large 300L bale typically retails for 45 to 60 dollars, but it provides impressive coverage, often spanning up to 60 square feet at a two-inch depth. While the upfront cost is higher than a bag of pine, the longevity of the product often makes it more cost effective over time because you do not need to change it as frequently.
If you have a smaller setup, you might consider the All Walks 18.5 Liter Premium Natural Hemp Bedding. This is an excellent choice for spot-cleaning nesting boxes or smaller brooders. It is dust-free, which is a major advantage for birds prone to sneezing or respiratory distress. For larger needs, the All Walks 40 Liters (4 x 10L Bags) allows you to manage smaller sections of the coop without opening a massive bale.
Sand as Chicken Pen Bedding
Using sand as chicken pen bedding is a polarizing topic. Some keepers love the deep-litter sifting method, while others find it too labor-intensive. Proponents of sand argue that it is the most hygienic option because it dries out quickly and can be sifted like a cat litter box. You will need construction-grade sand or washed river sand, which usually costs about 5 to 7 dollars per 50-pound bag.
However, sand is heavy and can be difficult to manage if your coop floor is not perfectly sealed. It also provides zero insulation, which makes it a poor choice for regions with freezing temperatures. If you decide to use sand, ensure you are also focusing on your flock's nutrition and hydration, perhaps by upgrading to one of the best chicken waterer options to prevent wet spots, which can turn sand into a muddy, unhygienic mess.
How to Maintain Bedding Inside Chicken Coop Spaces
Regardless of the material you choose, the maintenance schedule remains the key to health. A clean coop prevents predator attraction and keeps your egg production consistent. If you notice your birds are struggling with their laying habits, check out our guide on how many chicken nesting boxes your hens need to ensure they have enough space.
- Monitor Moisture: Always inspect corners where waterers are located. Wet bedding should be removed immediately to prevent mold and ammonia spikes.
- Deep Litter Method: If you use pine shavings, you can implement the deep litter method by adding fresh layers over the old ones during winter. This creates a composting effect that generates a small amount of heat.
- Regular Sifting: If you use sand, commit to a weekly sifting routine to remove droppings.
- Dust Control: If your hens seem to have dusty feathers, provide a designated area for them to bathe. Learn how to set up the perfect chicken dust bath to keep their skin healthy.
Comparing Costs and Efficiency
When calculating your annual budget, do not just look at the price of the bag. Consider how often you need to perform a full coop clean-out. Pine shavings are cheap, but they often require a full clean-out every month to prevent odors. Hemp bedding, due to its absorption, may only require a full refresh every three to four months if you manage the droppings daily.
The best bedding is the one you can afford to replace before it becomes a health hazard. I see too many keepers wait until the coop smells terrible before they clean it.
If you choose to use a deep litter system, remember to keep the bedding dry. If you are worried about the cold, please read our article on whether you really need a chicken coop heater, as most healthy flocks with dry bedding handle winter just fine without artificial heat.
Making the Final Choice
Choosing between pine, hemp, and sand depends on your specific coop design and local climate. If you live in a damp area, hemp is worth the investment for its superior moisture management. If you are on a tight budget and have a well-ventilated coop, pine shavings remain a reliable choice. If you prefer a sterile, easy-to-clean surface and live in a dry climate, sand might be your best bet.
Remember that your hens will spend a significant amount of time on this surface. Whether they are sleeping, scratching, or laying, their feet and respiratory systems are in constant contact with the bedding. Prioritize low-dust options and keep a consistent cleaning schedule. Your flock will reward you with cleaner eggs, fewer health issues, and a more pleasant coop environment for both of you.
As you refine your coop setup, keep an eye on your flock for any signs of stress or health changes. If you encounter issues like molting or health concerns, our resources on molting chickens and egg bound chicken symptoms can provide the support you need to keep your birds in peak condition.
RentACoop Extra-Soft Premium Hemp Bedding 300L - Super Absorbent, Low Dust, Natural Odor Control for Chicken Coops, Nest Boxes, Small Animal
- BULK 300L BALE - cost effective COVERAGE: 300L bale expands to approx. 10.6 cu ft and covers about 60 sq ft at 2-inch depth. Ideal for chicken coops, brooders, nesting boxes and small animal enclosures. Ideal for large f
- EXTRA-SOFT, ROUNDED FIBERS FOR COMFORT: Gentle on delicate feet, skin and feathers; ideal for chickens, ducks, brooder chicks, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and reptiles. Softer than traditional hemp for nesting boxes a
- 5X SUPER ABSORBENT & NATURAL ODOR CONTROL: Absorbs 5x more than pine shavings; locks more moisture than standard bedding, neutralizes ammonia, naturally controls odors. Performs exceptionally in damp, humid or winter con
- 100% NATURAL, COMPOSTABLE & SUSTAINABLE CHOICE: Made from pure hemp with no synthetic chemicals or pesticides. Fully biodegradable for garden compost. Safe for humans and animals. Offers an eco-friendly alternative to wo
- LOW DUST - HEALTHIER BEDDING OPTION: Produces significantly less dust than pine shavings or sawdust, helping reduce irritation and support better respiratory health for poultry and small animals. Naturally less hospitabl
All Walks 18.5 Liter Premium Natural Hemp Bedding, Odor Control, Low Dust, Highly Absorbent, for Rabbits, Hamsters, & Small Animals, Biodegr
- PET FRIENDLY - Our small animal hemp bedding is a sustainable alternative to paper bedding or wood shavings. Offering a low to no dust and natural choice for you and your pet. Made from 100% naturally grown hemp without
- VARIETY OF SPECIES - This pet bedding for small animal’s merits use with a variety of species including Poultry, Domestic rodents: Rabbits, Ferrets, Birds: Cockatoo, Macaw, Parrot and Reptiles: Large snakes, Iguana, Fril
- ODOR CONTROL & ABSORPTION All Walks Hemp Bedding offers premium absorption and odor control. Say goodbye to unwanted smells slipping through, now your companion’s enclosure will stay cleaner for longer.
- SUSTAINABLLY SOURCED - At All Walks we believe in sustainability, therefore our hemp bedding is produced 100% tree-free. Mindfully made from hemp, which sequesters more CO2 per acre than trees or other crops, our rapidly
- COMPOSTABLE CLEANUP - Hemp is one of the World’s most sustainable resources, making it a great and natural option for your furry friends. This earthy cage bedding option is not only effective but is also 100% biodegradab
All Walks 40 Liters(4 x 10L Bags) Premium Natural Hemp Bedding, Odor Control, Low Dust, Highly Absorbent, for Rabbits, Hamsters, & Small Ani
- PET FRIENDLY - Our small animal hemp bedding is a sustainable alternative to paper bedding or wood shavings. Offering a low to no dust and natural choice for you and your pet. Made from 100% naturally grown hemp without
- VARIETY OF SPECIES - This pet bedding is suitable for use with a variety of species of small animals. Including small rodents, small domestic birds, medium-sized reptiles and even invertebrates such as tarantulas and sco
- ODOR CONTROL & ABSORPTION All Walks Hemp Bedding offers premium absorption and odor control. Say goodbye to unwanted smells slipping through, now your companion’s enclosure will stay cleaner for longer.
- SUSTAINABLLY SOURCED - At All Walks we believe in sustainability, therefore our hemp bedding is produced 100% tree-free. Mindfully made from hemp, which sequesters more CO2 per acre than trees or other crops, our rapidly
- COMPOSTABLE CLEANUP - Hemp is one of the World’s most sustainable resources, making it a great and natural option for your furry friends. This earthy cage bedding option is not only effective but is also 100% biodegradab
