Rethinking my longtime use of straw - advice appreciated!

[NewcoopNewpoop]

Could you just throw down a layer of soil or gravel then rubber mats on top? Seems easier.

 

[MapleLaurelFarms]

Could you just throw down a layer of soil or gravel then rubber mats on top? Seems easier.

Actually that's the plan - thanks! But I want bedding on top of the mats. It gets pretty cold here in the winter. Plus it will help absorb poop etc.

 

[Janet Brad]

Hi there, I am trialling using unwashed sand and small grade pumice stone over the top. Easy to remove droppings and a soft landing for chooks. Have had issues with mites in the past so avoiding wood chip. I use a scythe to cut handfuls of grass which I dry in the sun (in summer) to make nesting box bedding. So far so good.