Let’s clear up any confusion straight away. Poultry ‘bedding’ is in fact the material on the floor of the hen house, not the material in the nestbox itself. Correct bedding is important for poultry welfare and disease prevention. Damp bedding needs to be avoided as it encourages bacteria, some of which can be harmful as it releases ammonia that can damage the birds’ respiratory system and general health.
Aubiose is popular as it lasts longer than shavings and also rots down quite quickly. It can be added to the compost heap making it simple to dispose off.
Sawdust is very dusty and can cause respiratory problems.
Straw can be used as a bedding material although it compacts easily and isn’t very absorbent so will need to changed regularly. Chopped straw is acceptable and it does compost quickly.
Using hay for bedding is not recommended due to the fact that it soon becomes damp and causes fungal spores. This causes aspergillosis.
Shredded paper can be used as bedding but it compacts too easily and is not very absorbent. The absorbency will depend on how thick the paper has been layered. If it is used, it needs to be changed regularly.