Have you ever noticed your chickens scratching, pecking, or even getting sick because of the wrong flooring in their run?Â
Choosing the best flooring for a chicken run or coop is about keeping your coop clean and your chickens healthy and happy.
Did you know that poor flooring can lead to significantly increased bacterial growth putting your chickens at risk of diseases?Â
That’s why picking the right material is so important.
In this article, we’ll explore the best flooring options, from easy-to-clean concrete to natural dirt and sand. We’ll also review some of the best bedding or flooring for a chicken coop or run.
Table of Contents
Key Factors for Choosing Chicken Run Flooring
The right flooring not only keeps your chickens healthy and happy but also makes your chicken-keeping life easier by reducing maintenance.Â
So let’s explore the key factors to consider when selecting chicken run flooring, along with practical solutions and insights.
- Durability: The flooring should withstand scratching and pecking. Durable options include concrete, gravel, and wood chips, which last 6 months to a year.
- Comfort: Chickens need soft surfaces to prevent foot injuries. Sand, wood shavings, and straw are gentle on their feet.
- Drainage: Good drainage prevents muddy, wet conditions. Sand and gravel are excellent for drainage, while materials like straw can become soggy and messy.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose flooring that’s easy to clean and maintain. Sand and wood chips are popular because they absorb moisture and can be raked or replaced easily.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Budget-friendly options like sand, wood chips, and straw are affordable and effective. For example, a cubic meter of wood chips costs around $22.
- Climate Suitability: In rainy areas, gravel or sand works best for drainage. In hot climates, avoid materials like concrete that can become too hot for chickens’ feet.
Here are some practical tips for choosing the best flooring for your chicken run or coop.
- Combine Materials: Use a mix of sand and gravel for better drainage and comfort.
- Rotate Grass Areas: If using grass, move the run regularly to allow the grass to recover.
- Add Bedding: Layer straw or wood shavings over concrete or gravel for added comfort.
- Avoid Toxic Materials: Ensure materials are untreated and free from harmful chemicals.
7 Best Natural Flooring for Chicken Run
Natural flooring options not only provide a safe and comfortable environment but also promote natural behaviors.Â
Natural flooring also improves hygiene, enhances comfort, and is also eco-friendly, as most natural materials are biodegradable and sustainable.
Let’s explore the best natural flooring options for coop and run, and their pros and cons.
1: Grass for Chicken Run Flooring
Grass is a soft, natural option that chickens love. It provides nutrition as chickens can also eat grass and forage for insects.
Gras is comfortable, they are soft on their feet, and great for dust bathing. Also, grass provides entertainment to chickens and keeps chickens busy and happy.
The one drawback of grass flooring is chickens can destroy grass quickly, so it’s best for movable runs or chicken tractors.
2: Sand for Run Flooring
Sand is a popular choice for chicken run flooring for its ease of maintenance and comfort. It is soft on chicken feet, drains well, reducing mud and odors, and is also easy to clean by raking.
The cons of sand are it can get too hot in summer and it also needs regular top-ups as chickens scratch it out.
3: Concrete for Chicken Run Flooring
Concrete is another great option, it’s durable and long-lasting as well as it’s easy to clean with a hose or pressure washer. A great thing about this is it’s predator-proof, as it prevents digging.
The disadvantage of concrete is they are cold in winter (you can use a lamp or heater for this), so you’ll need to add a layer of bedding for insulation. Concrete is also hard on chickens’ feet, which may lead to injuries if not cushioned.
Tip: Use concrete slabs instead of a solid base to allow for better drainage.
4: Wood Chips for Chicken Flooring
Wood chips are durable and great for foraging. It’s long-lasting, affordable, and encourages natural behaviors like scratching in your chickens. When they break down, they enrich the soil.
However, this chicken-run flooring needs to be replaced every 6-12 months. Ensure to avoid colored or scented chips to prevent health issues.
5: Pine Shavings for Flooring
Pine shavings are another soft and absorbent choice. It’s comfortable for chickens to walk on, it absorbs moisture and odors and pine shavings are also biodegradable and eco-friendly.
It needs frequent replacement and can attract pests if not maintained.
6: Leaves and Pine Needles for Flooring
Leaves and pine needles are free and natural and are great for insulation and foraging. It provides a habitat for insects, which chickens love to eat.
Also leaves and pin needles insulate against cold weather and are biodegradable and easy to replace.
The drawback is it can blow away in windy conditions and needs regular replenishment.
7: Rubber Mats for Chicken Run Floor
Rubber mats are durable, easy to clean, and provide a soft, slip-resistant surface for your chickens.Â
They are long–lasting, weather-resistant, and help maintain hygiene by preventing waste buildup. Rubber mats also offer insulation, keeping your flock warm in winter and cool in summer. Â
However, they require a flat surface for installation and may need occasional cleaning to prevent odors. Ensure to choose non-toxic, high-quality rubber mats.
6 Best Flooring For Chicken Run on Amazon
In this section, we’ll explore and review the top 6 best flooring options for chicken runs available on Amazon, along with their pros, cons, and tips for making the best choice.
Let’s take a closer look at the specific details and specifications of each flooring potion to help you make an informed decision and ensure your chickens have the best possible environment.
MagJo Premium Aspen Nesting Liners for Chickens
Dimensions: 15.07 x 13.78 x 7.8 inches
Weight: 1 pound
Manufacturer: MagJo
Country: USA
Stock Availability: Available
For the best bedding for your chickens, the MagJo Premium Aspen Nesting Liners are a top choice.Â
These 12-pack nesting liners are designed to keep your coop clean, comfortable, and healthy for your feathered friends.
Some key features of this bedding/flooring for chicken run and coop:
100% USA-Grown Aspen:Â
These nesting liners are made from high-quality aspen wood, which is healthier for chickens than pine or cedar.
Kraft Paper Backing:Â
The liners have a paper backing that helps keep the shavings in place and allows droppings to fall through, making coop cleaning a breeze.
Egg-Cushioning:Â
The aspen shavings provide the perfect cushion for your hens and their eggs, reducing the risk of breakage.
Sustainably:Â
MagJo is committed to sustainability and employs former refugees, making this product not just good for your chickens but also for the community.
Pros
- Cleanliness
- Durability
- High-quality
- Ease of use
- Great value for money
- For nesting boxes and coop bedding
- Droppings don’t get stuck in the bedding
Cons
- Chickens wouldn’t lay on it at first
- Little thin and hard
Manna Pro Fresh Flakes Best Chicken Coop Bedding
Item Form: Flake
Uses: Chicken Coop Hygiene and Health
Unit: 1 Count
Dimensions: 12 x 14.75 x 4 inches
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Stock Availability: Available
The Manna Pro Fresh Flakes Pine Shavings are a high-quality, natural, and effective bedding for chicken run or coop.Â
This is designed to keep your chickens comfortable, and healthy, and your coop clean.
Key features of Manna Pro Fresh Flakes for chicken run flooring:
Natural and Compostable:Â
Made from premium pine shavings, this bedding is 100% natural and biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly choice for your chicken coop.
Low-Dust and Ultra-Absorbent:Â
The pine shavings are low in dust, which helps reduce respiratory issues in your chickens. They are also highly absorbent, keeping your coop dry and odor-free.
Fresh Pine Scent:Â
The natural pine scent not only freshens up your coop but also creates a comfortable and hygienic environment for your chickens.
Easy to Use:Â
The shavings are easy to spread and can be used in nesting boxes, chick corrals, or anywhere else in your coop.
Pros
- Low dust
- Natural and safe
- Excellent absorbency
- Natural and compostable
- Give the quality and quantity
Cons
- Some users might find it with a bad odor
- Too compacted
Pasture Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads
Material: Aspen excelsior
Pack Size: 10 pads
Dimensions: 13 x 13 inches
Weight: 6.38 pounds
Brand: Eaton Pet and Pasture
Stock Availability: Available
This one is a premium choice with pillow-like thickness, sustainability, and comfortability and it also minimizes egg breakage.Â
These pads are designed to provide a soft and clean environment for your chickens, while also being easy to maintain.
Best features of this premium bedding or flooring:
Premium Quality:Â
Made from 100% sustainably harvested aspen excelsior, these pads are soft, durable, and perfect for your hens.
Eco-Friendly:Â
Eaton Pet and Pasture is committed to sustainability, ensuring that its products have minimal environmental impact.
Easy Egg Collection:Â
The pads help minimize egg breakage and make egg gathering a stress-free task.
Absorbent & Clean:Â
The aspen fibers draw moisture away, keeping the environment fresh and clean for your hens.
Pros
- Sustainability
- Comfort
- Ease of use
- Durability
- Support your hens
Cons
- They may be pricier than other
- Need to replace the pads more frequently
RentACoop Premium Pets Bedding
Material: Hemp
Scent: Unscented
Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 30 inches
Weight: 29.5 pounds
Coverage: 8″ x 6″ coop with a 1.5″ of hemp bedding
Stock Availability: Available
The RentACoop Premium Hemp Bedding is a top-tier choice for chicken owners, it’s a clean, comfortable, and eco-friendly bedding solution.Â
This premium hemp bedding is designed to absorb moisture and reduce odors, making it ideal for chickens, rabbits, hamsters, and other small pets.
Key features of RentACoop best flooring for coop:
Highly Absorbent & Odor-Reducing:Â
The hemp bedding effectively absorbs moisture and odors, keeping your chicken’s environment clean and fresh for longer periods.
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable:Â
Made from EU-grown hemp, this bedding is biodegradable and can be composted, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Safer for Your Chickens:Â
Unlike pine shavings, this bedding is less acidic and produces minimal dust, providing a healthier environment for your chickens.
Versatile Use:Â
It is suitable for a wide range of animals, including chickens, rabbits, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and even horses.
Long-Lasting & Economical:
Hemp bedding lasts longer than traditional pine shavings, offering great value for money.
Pros
- Exceptional absorption
- Reducing the risk of odors and mess
- Compostable
- Biodegradable
- Less acidic and dust-free
- Durability
- Versatile
Cons
- Expensive
- Fibrous
Premium Pine Straw Mulch for Chicken Run
Brand: USA PINESTRAW
Material: Organic Pine Needles
Color: Light Brown
Coverage: 100 Sq Ft per Set
Dimensions: 28 x 18 x 18 inches
Stock Availability: Available
This natural pine straw mulch is an organic product sourced from USA pine forests.Â
It is light brown and helps retain soil moisture while inhibiting weed growth, making it suitable for long-lasting and attractive landscaping.
It’s a good choice for chicken run flooring or coop bedding. It’s soft and your chickens will feel comfortable in these.
Some great features of this flooring and bedding are:
100% Organic Material:Â
Sourced from sustainable pine forests, this mulch is a natural, chemical-free option for your chicken run or garden.
Weed Control:Â
Effectively inhibits weed growth, reducing the need for harmful chemicals.
Soil Moisture Retention:Â
Helps retain moisture, reducing watering needs and promoting plant health.
Long-Lasting Beauty:Â
Durable and attractive, it maintains its appearance for an extended period.
Easy Application:Â
Simple to spread around flower beds, chicken runs, and garden pathways.
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- 100% organic material
- Effective weed control
- Helps keep the soil moist
- Elegant look
- Spread is effortlessly
Cons
- Need to be replenished more frequently
- Pricey
Eaton Pet and Pasture Hemp Pet Bedding
Weight: 6.26 pounds
Dimensions: 25 x 13.5 x 4 inches
Brand: Eaton Pet and Pasture
Size: 8 Pound (Pack of 1)
Recommendation: Small Breeds
Stock Availability: Available
This is a hypoallergenic, and eco-friendly bedding option for your chickens, the Eaton Pet and Pasture Hemp Pet Bedding is an effective choice.Â
This bedding is made from sustainably grown hemp, making it an excellent option for pet owners who prioritize both their pets’ comfort and the environment.
Some best features of this run and coop flooring:
100% Natural Hemp:Â
The bedding is made from pesticide-free, sustainably grown hemp, ensuring a clean and pure environment for your chickens.
Highly Absorbent:Â
Designed to manage moisture and odors effectively, keeping your chickens dry and comfortable.
Hypoallergenic:Â
Low in dust, this bedding is ideal for pets with sensitive respiratory systems.
Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable:Â
Hemp is one of the most sustainable plants, and this bedding is fully biodegradable and compostable.
Versatile Use:Â
Suitable for a variety of small pets, including chickens, rabbits, hamsters, and more.
Pros
- Soft and comfortable
- Low dust
- Ideal for pets with allergies
- Effective absorption
- Easy to clean
- The biodegradable and compostable
Cons
- Sometimes smells like mildew
- While most people appreciate the absorbency, some have found it to be less effective
Installing Chicken Run Flooring Step-by-Step
Let’s walk you through the process of installing the flooring step by step with practical tips.
Step 1: Assess Your Needs:
Before choosing flooring, consider:
Your area climate, wet climates need better drainage (e.g., sand or gravel).Â
Cold climates require insulation (e.g., wood chips or straw).
Number of chickens, more chickens means more wear and tear, so durable materials like concrete or wood chips work best.
Budget, some materials, like sand or wood chips, are cost-effective, while concrete is more expensive but long-lasting.
Step 2: Choose the Right Flooring Material:
Choose the best flooring for your chicken run or coop. You can select sand, concrete, grass, or other products that are reviewed in the list if you prefer.
Step 3: Prepare the Ground:
Clear the area, remove rocks, weeds, and debris.
Level the ground, ensure the surface is even to prevent water pooling.
Add a base layer, for gravel or sand, lay a 2-3 inch base for drainage. For wood chips, ensure the ground is dry.
Step 4: Install the Flooring:
- Sand: Spread a 2-4 inch layer and take regularly to prevent compaction.
- Wood Chips: Lay a 4-6 inch layer and replenish as needed.
- Gravel: Use pea gravel and cover with a thin layer of sand for comfort.
- Concrete: Pour a slab and add a soft layer like straw or wood shavings on top.
Step 5: Maintain the Flooring:
- Clean Weekly: Remove droppings and replace soiled bedding.
- Check for Wear: Replace wood chips or sand as they break down.
- Monitor Drainage: Ensure water doesn’t pool, especially in rainy seasons.
That’s it your chicken run or coop floor is ready.
Summary
Choosing the best flooring for your chicken run and coop doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering factors like drainage, and comfort, you can create a healthy environment.Â
Whether you opt for gravel, sand, or rubber mats, the right flooring will save you time, money, and stress.
Don’t wait for any more! Start with one of the options above and provide comfort to your chickens!
FAQs
What is the best flooring for a muddy chicken run?
The best flooring for a muddy chicken run is wood chips or sand. Wood chips absorb moisture, prevent mud, and are easy to clean, while sand drains well and stays dry. Both options are soft on chicken feet and reduce odors.
What is the best thing for a chicken run floor?
Wood chips are the best choice for a chicken run floor. They are affordable, durable, and provide a natural foraging environment. They also help control odors and keep the run clean.
What is the best ground covering for a chicken run?
The best ground covering for a chicken run is hardwood chips or sand. Hardwood chips last longer, while sand is easy to clean and drains well. Both options are safe and comfortable for chickens.
What do you put at the bottom of a chicken run?
At the bottom of a chicken run, use gravel for drainage, topped with wood chips or sand. This combination prevents mud, keeps the area dry, and is easy to maintain.
What is the best floor for poultry?
The best floor for poultry is wood chips or sand. These materials are soft, and absorbent, and allow chickens to forage naturally. They also reduce odors and are easy to clean.
What do you use on a chicken-run floor?
Use wood chips or sand on a chicken-run floor. Both are affordable, easy to clean, and provide a comfortable surface for chickens to scratch and forage.
What is the best floor covering for a chicken run?
The best floor covering for a chicken run is hardwood chips or sand. They are durable, absorb moisture, and create a natural environment for chickens.
What is the best flooring for chickens?
The best flooring for chickens run or coop is wood chips or sand. These materials are soft, easy to clean, and help control odors while allowing chickens to forage.
What is the cheapest option for chicken run flooring?
The cheapest option for chicken run flooring is sand or wood chips. Both are affordable, easy to maintain, and provide a comfortable surface for chickens.
Can I use wood chips in my chicken run?
Yes, wood chips are safe and effective for chicken run and coo flooring. Use untreated hardwood chips to avoid toxins and ensure they are at least 2 inches deep for best results.
How often should I clean the flooring in a chicken run?
Clean the flooring in a chicken run every 1-2 months. Replace wood chips every 6 months and rake sand weekly to maintain cleanliness and prevent odors.
What materials are best for extreme weather conditions?
For extreme weather, use wood chips for insulation in cold climates and sand for drainage in wet areas. Both materials adapt well to varying conditions.
How do I prevent predators from digging into the run?
To prevent predators, use hardware cloth buried 12 inches deep around the run. Combine this with a gravel base for added security.
Hello! I’m Ibrahim, the owner and writer of this blog. I run a chicken farm with 160 chickens, and I’ve gained a lot of knowledge about raising and caring for them. Now, I want to share my insights and experiences with you to help you in chicken keeping.