If you’re new to raising baby chicks or thinking about getting some for the first time, you likely have many questions running through your mind, I know I did!
I have done all of the hard work, experience, and research for you so you can get your brooder ready quickly and stress-free! It’s easier than you think!
What do Chicks Need?
- Brooder container to keep your chicks in
- Heat to keep them warm and cozy
- Feeder
- Waterer
- Bedding material for the bottom of the brooder
- Lots of love and care!
Brooder
Brooder Size
A brooder is the techincal name of the container that you will keep your chicks in until they transition to their coop. A brooder can be anything that is large enough for the amount of chicks you have. A good rule of thumb is to provide a container that is minimum 1 square foot per chick. Some say half that is fine, but once they start growing, they will appreciate the extra space.
An overcrowded brooder can lead to peaking, injured birds, disease, and more mess! So you do yourself a favor and get a suitable size for your chicks.
So lets say you are starting out with 3 chicks. That means you need to find a brooder with at least 3 square feet. If you are starting with 6 chicks, you would be looking for a bigger brooder that is at least 6 square feet.
Brooder Containers
Now that you have determined your brooder size, you will have to start looking for a suitable container! This can be anything that will keep your chicks safe, dry, and healthy.
We started out with a large rubbermaid tote for the first week when our chicks were teeny tiny. After a week, I purchased this pop-up brooder and it is perfect! It offers them lots of room to run around, explore, and enough room for them to grow before we transfer them to their coop.
DIY Brooder Ideas
If you want to go the DIY route there are so many DIY brooder ideas below.
- Rubbermaid tote bin
- Livestock feed trough
- Kiddie pool
- Lined dog crate
- Large fish tank
Heat Source
Next, you will want to ensure you have an adequate heat source. This is to keep the chicks warm as mother hen would do.
Heat should be provided in the brooder at all times. Keep an area within the brooder without the heat for the chicks to go if they get too hot.
I like this heat plate opposed to the traditional heat lamp. A heat lamp gets too hot, and could become a fire hazard.
A heat plate offers a more realistic version of heat for the chicks. They waddle underneath as they would mother hen to get warm and cozy for a nap.
Each week we raise the heat plate as they grow to adjust for their needs.
Bedding Material
Pine Shavings – Pine shavings are highly absorbent, help control odor, and provide a soft, comfortable surface for chicks. They are available at your local feed and a budget-friendly option.
Paper Towels – For the first few days, using paper towels over a layer of shavings helps prevent chicks from eating the litter. Paper towels provide good traction, reducing the risk of leg problems.
Rubber Shelf Liner – This provides a non-slip surface that helps prevent splay leg in young chicks. It is also easy to clean and sanitize. You should only use this for the first few days and then change to another bedding such as pine shavings.
Straw – Straw is absorbent and provide good insulation. It is also biodegradable and can be composted after use. It can get a little stinky so be sure to change frequently.
Bedding Material to Avoid
Cedar Shavings – Cedar contains aromatic oils that can be harmful to chicks’ respiratory systems and can cause allergic reactions.
Newspaper – Newspaper can be slippery when wet, increasing the risk of leg injuries such as splay leg. It also lacks absorbency, making the brooder wet and messy.
Cat Litter – Cat litter can be dusty, leading to respiratory issues. It can also clump and become hard, making it difficult to clean and uncomfortable for your chicks.
Food & Water
Feeder
Baby chicks are tiny and need a little feeder that’s easy for them to reach without taking up too much space in the brooder.
To keep their chick starter from getting scattered everywhere, try placing the feeder on a small wooden block or hanging it above the bedding with a string. This way, your chicks can eat comfortably and keep their space tidy!
Waterer
The waterer should be small a shallow to avoid the chicks from falling in and drowing. You should plan to change the water daily or more often to avoid contamination.
Your chicks will poop and scratch shavings in the food bowl and waterer, so it’s important to keep both clean, so your birds stay healthy. Placing the water on a small wooden block will help keep the water clean.
Cleaning Your Chick Brooder
You will want to clean your chick brooder every day as well as provide them with fresh food and water. Follow the steps below for a clean and smell-free brooder!
- Remove the Chicks – Transfer the chicks to a safe, temporary holding area. A small box or another brooder will work, ensuring they stay warm and safe.
- Remove Soiled Shavings – Use a small scoop or dustpan to remove any soiled or wet pine shavings. Focus on areas around feeders, waterers, and where the chicks sleep, as these tend to get dirty quickly.
- Replace with Fresh Shavings – Add a layer of fresh pine shavings to the brooder, ensuring it’s about 1-2 inches deep. This provides a clean, dry surface for your chicks.
- Clean and Refill the Feeder & Waterer – Empty any remaining food and water from the feeder and clean it with a cloth or paper towel. You can use a mild disinfectant if needed, but ensure it is thoroughly rinsed and dried. Refill the feeder with fresh chick feed and place it back in the brooder.
- Return the Chicks: Gently place the chicks back into the clean brooder. Monitor them for a few minutes to ensure they are comfortable and have easy access to food and water.