Can I store feed in a plastic garbage can?

[HelenB]

I'm just about to open my first big bag of feed for my girls (4 3wk old GLWs) and would like to store it in an (airtight?) rodent proof container, a plastic garbage can costs about half as much as galvanized. How big a can do I need for 50# of feed? My final flock will probably be 10 or so, so the feed will last a while.

Thanks in advance for your input, this site is wonderful, a constant source of entertainment and information!
Helen

 

[gritsar]

I use a square rubbermaid tote for my feed. I don't know the exact size, probably a 30 liter. It hold approx. 75 lbs. of feed (a bag and a half). I have never had a rodent or pest problem using it, but it is on our screened porch.

 

[BarredBuff]

Mine is just a regular plactic container that we got from the dollar store. Regular size will work for one 50 pound bag of feed. Leave it in the bag to because ifyou pour it in the bin it will get wet.

 

[ArizonaNessa]

I use the big rubbermaid trash cans with lids. Works great. I actually have spray painted the top of each one so that I can tell what can has what type of feed in it. I have one for DE, one for starter, one for layer, and one for flockraiser.

 

[underground chickenman]

Depends on where you keep it. If it is where rodents can get to it, they will eventually chew through it.

UGCM

 

[ranchhand]

Yes, it depends upon where you keep it. Mine is stored on an open front porch. (yeah, we're tacky, but no one can see it!

)

The squirrels ate through the plastic cans asap, so now I use galvanized.

 

[sgtmom52]

I opted to spend a little extra for the metal trash can ~ it is weather tight and no rodents. I use a heavy rubber bungee cord to strap the lid on. I live in the woods and the can sits on the porch outside of the coop. I have also used the same kinds of cans for my wild bird food for the past 8 years without any problems.

 

[karen71]

If you keep it outside in a shed -the mice will eat thru the plastic and get in - I stored feed in the big rubbermaid containers in the feed shed near the coop and I found holes eaten into the top and mice

inside
I broke down and bought the metal trash cans - no more mice

 

[Laurie's Silkies]

I store my chicken feed in the hallway leading to the laundry room. Minnesotas summers get quite humid and feel it is better stored in the house where the climate is controlled (The central air will be on all summer) keeps the feed from getting damp and feel it just "Keeps Better" No rodents in the house either.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

How big a can do I need for 50# of feed?

15-20 gallons will work
A 30 gallon will hold 150 lbs​