Keeping chickens in your backyard can be both rewarding and therapeutic. But if there's one thing hens value above all—besides food—it’s a safe, comfy place to lay their eggs. That’s where nesting boxes come in. Whether you're new to raising chickens or a seasoned backyard farmer, giving your hens proper nesting boxes can improve egg production and ensure a clean, healthy flock. Let’s explore the best chicken nesting box ideas that are functional, creative, and budget-friendly.
Introduction to Chicken Nesting Boxes
Why Nesting Boxes Are Essential for Backyard Chickens
Think of nesting boxes as a chicken’s bedroom—a cozy, private space where they can lay eggs in peace. Without a designated nesting area, hens may lay eggs in random, inconvenient places like corners, under bushes, or even in their feeding area. This not only makes egg collection a scavenger hunt, but it also increases the risk of cracked or dirty eggs.
Nesting boxes offer the following benefits:
- Clean Eggs: When eggs are laid in a clean, dry box, they stay cleaner and are less likely to be contaminated.
- Higher Production: Hens that feel secure and comfortable will be more consistent layers.
- Protection: Nesting boxes provide protection from weather and predators, especially for free-range chickens.
- Organized Coop: They help maintain order within the coop, preventing chaos and territorial disputes among hens.
Without them, your hens might lay eggs in places you’d never think to look. Worse, they might start egg-eating behavior—something that’s very hard to reverse once it starts. So, providing nesting boxes isn’t just about convenience—it’s essential for happy hens and healthy eggs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up Nesting Boxes
Many first-time chicken keepers get excited and rush through nesting box setup. But a few common mistakes can make your hens reject even the most luxurious boxes. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Too Few Boxes: This leads to crowding, fighting, and broken eggs.
- Wrong Size: Nesting boxes that are too big or too small will be ignored or lead to dirty, trampled eggs.
- Lack of Privacy: Hens prefer quiet, dimly lit areas to lay eggs.
- No Bedding: Bare boxes can cause eggs to crack and hens to avoid using them.
- Improper Height: If placed too high or low, some chickens may struggle to access the boxes or hurt themselves jumping.
Always ensure your nesting box meets your hens’ basic needs: comfort, security, cleanliness, and privacy. Think like a hen—and you’ll be golden.
How Many Nesting Boxes Do You Need?
Ideal Ratio of Hens to Nesting Boxes
One of the first questions that comes up when planning your chicken coop setup is: How many nesting boxes do I actually need? The general rule of thumb is one nesting box for every 3 to 4 hens. Chickens are communal creatures and don’t mind sharing boxes. In fact, even if you provide more boxes, they often take turns using the same one—especially if it becomes the "popular" spot.
For example:
- 6 hens = 2 nesting boxes
- 10 hens = 3–4 nesting boxes
- 15 hens = 4–5 nesting boxes
Providing too many boxes can actually create more cleaning work without any added benefit. And too few can lead to territorial squabbles and stress, which negatively affects egg production. Balance is key.
If you're noticing a "wait line" for nesting, it’s probably time to add one or two more boxes. On the flip side, if several boxes go completely unused, you might want to consolidate and optimize the layout.
Factors That Influence the Number of Nesting Boxes
While the 3–4 hens per box rule is a good starting point, several factors might influence how many boxes you actually need:
- Breed of Chicken: Larger breeds like Orpingtons or Brahmas might require more space or private boxes.
- Broody Hens: Broody hens will "hog" a nesting box, refusing to leave it. This means the other hens will need alternatives.
- Coop Size and Layout: A cramped coop can discourage hens from using certain boxes, no matter how many you offer.
- Weather and Seasons: In colder months, hens may prefer specific, warmer boxes—leading to crowding.
- Hen Behavior: Some hens are more dominant and may claim a favorite box, pushing others to seek new spots.
Keep a close eye on how your flock behaves. Chickens will let you know—through their actions—if your nesting setup needs a tweak or two.
Basic Requirements for an Ideal Nesting Box
Size and Dimensions for Different Chicken Breeds
Nesting boxes don’t need to be fancy—but they do need to be the right size. A good standard size for most average-sized hens is 12” × 12” × 12” (height × width × depth). This gives them enough room to turn around, fluff their feathers, and lay comfortably without being cramped.
However, adjustments might be needed based on the breed:
- Bantams: These smaller chickens can fit comfortably in boxes as small as 10” × 10”.
- Large Breeds: For bigger birds like Jersey Giants or Cochins, you’ll want something closer to 14” × 14” or even 16” × 16”.
If you're unsure, err on the side of slightly larger rather than smaller. Hens like to feel enclosed, but not so tight they can’t move.
Avoid overly large boxes though. They might tempt multiple hens to squeeze in at once, leading to broken eggs or pecking fights.
Proper Placement and Height
Where you put your nesting boxes is just as important as how many you have. Hens instinctively seek out quiet, safe, elevated spots to lay their eggs.
Here are key placement tips:
- Height: Boxes should be 18 to 24 inches off the ground. This keeps the eggs clean and away from ground moisture while still being accessible.
- Not Higher Than Roosts: Always place boxes lower than your perches. Chickens prefer higher spots for sleeping, and if boxes are placed higher, they may roost in them overnight—which leads to messy droppings and dirty eggs.
- Dark and Private: Choose a dim, quiet part of the coop or install curtains for extra privacy.
- Easy Access: Make sure boxes are easily reachable for both chickens and you (for egg collection and cleaning).
A good nesting setup encourages natural behavior and reduces stress—two things that directly affect how often and where your hens lay their eggs.
DIY Chicken Nesting Box Ideas
Wooden Crate Nesting Boxes
Wooden crates are one of the most popular and readily available materials for building DIY chicken nesting boxes. These crates are durable, inexpensive, and easy to find at grocery stores, markets, or even online marketplaces. If you're even a little handy, turning a wooden crate into a comfy nesting box is a breeze.
To make one, simply:
- Clean the crate thoroughly.
- Line the bottom with straw, pine shavings, or hemp bedding.
- Mount the crate securely to the wall of your coop, about 18 inches off the ground.
- Optional: Add a sloped roof or small curtain to give the hens extra privacy.
One benefit of using crates is how easily they can be replaced or rearranged. You can stack them to save space, paint them to match your coop, or even personalize them with chicken names.
Wooden crates also add a rustic charm to your coop. But do note—they can be a bit harder to clean if moisture or mites set in. Sealing the wood with a non-toxic paint or waterproof lining can help extend the life of your crates and keep pests away.
Bucket Nesting Boxes
If you’re all about efficiency and function over form, 5-gallon buckets make surprisingly great nesting boxes. Chickens actually love the enclosed feel of a bucket laid on its side—it mimics the dark, safe nooks they’d naturally seek out to lay eggs.
Here’s how to make one:
- Use a clean 5-gallon plastic bucket.
- Lay it on its side, with the opening slightly tilted upward to prevent eggs from rolling out.
- Secure it in place using a wooden frame or bricks to stop it from shifting.
- Add bedding inside.
- Optionally, cut a “lip” or partial door across the opening for added comfort and egg safety.
Buckets are weather-resistant, easy to clean, and incredibly cheap. Plus, they’re great for small coops with limited space. The round shape might look odd, but chickens don’t mind—they care more about comfort than aesthetics!
Milk Crate Nesting Boxes
Another affordable and easy-to-use solution is the plastic milk crate. Just like wooden crates, these stack easily and can be lined with soft bedding. You can get them at most department stores or even salvage them from restaurants or convenience stores (with permission, of course).
Here’s a simple setup:
- Lay the crate on its side.
- Use zip ties or brackets to secure it to a wall or platform.
- Add a wooden board or rubber mat to the bottom to keep bedding in place.
- Fill it with straw or pine shavings.
Milk crates are ventilated, easy to clean, and lightweight. You can move them around or take them out for a deep clean without any hassle. Just keep in mind: the open back and sides may require curtains or added panels for more privacy.
Repurposed Furniture Nesting Boxes
If you enjoy upcycling, turning old furniture into nesting boxes is a creative, eco-friendly option. Think of that old dresser collecting dust in the garage—it can become a nesting box condo in no time!
Here are some fun ideas:
- Dressers: Remove the drawers and fill the spaces with bedding. Each drawer slot becomes a cozy nesting nook.
- Cabinets or Nightstands: Add a ramp or perch, some bedding, and you're good to go.
- Bookshelves: Tip them on their side and partition the shelves to create individual boxes.
These options offer both functionality and flair. Ensure the furniture is clean, safe (no sharp edges), and free from any toxic paint or chemicals.
Store-Bought Nesting Box Options
Plastic Nesting Boxes
Store-bought plastic nesting boxes are a hit among many chicken keepers due to their convenience and hygiene. These boxes are molded from heavy-duty plastic, which makes them:
- Easy to clean
- Resistant to mites
- Lightweight yet durable
Most models come with sloped roofs to discourage roosting and may include a perch in front for easy entry. Ventilation holes in the back keep things airy, and they often mount easily to coop walls with minimal effort.
Plastic boxes are a great low-maintenance solution, widely available at farm supply stores or online retailers, often costing between $10–$25 each.
Roll-Away Nesting Boxes
If you're tired of dealing with cracked or pecked eggs, roll-away nesting boxes might be your dream solution. These boxes are designed with a gentle slope inside. Once a hen lays an egg, it naturally rolls to the back of the box into a protected tray or drawer.
Benefits include:
- Cleaner eggs (less manure or pecking)
- No need to collect eggs multiple times a day
- Great for free-range setups where egg theft is common
The Pets Gear 3-Hole Roll-Away Nesting Box features a rugged galvanized steel frame paired with durable plastic trays and comes with protective covers over each roll-away section. The forward sloped design ensures eggs gently roll into a covered collection tray—keeping them intact, clean, and away from curious hens.
At ~A$129.95, it’s an investment—but with fewer cracked eggs, reduced cleaning time, and stress-free hens, the payoff is worth every cent.
Metal Nesting Boxes
Durability is the name of the game with metal nesting boxes. They’re the go-to choice for large flocks or commercial coops due to their longevity and cleanability.
Advantages of metal boxes:
- Extremely long-lasting
- Fire-resistant
- Easy to disinfect
- Resistant to rodents and pests
Most designs include ventilation slits, sloped roofs, and detachable trays for easy cleaning. Some chicken keepers find metal a bit cold in winter, so add more bedding or insulate the sides to keep hens cozy.
Creative Nesting Box Designs
Vertical Nesting Towers
Short on floor space in your coop? Vertical nesting towers might be the perfect solution. These are stacked or tiered nesting boxes designed to go upward rather than outward—an ideal option for urban or small-space chicken coops.
Benefits of vertical nesting boxes:
- Maximize limited space
- Allow multiple hens to lay simultaneously
- Add an attractive, organized look to your coop
You can build these towers using wooden crates, boxes, or purpose-built stackable units. Make sure each level has:
- A small perch for entry and exit
- A secure mount to prevent wobbling
- Easy access for egg collection and cleaning
Be cautious about the top levels. Chickens might prefer lower boxes, especially older or heavier hens. Add a ramp or staggered steps to help them reach the upper nests comfortably.
Community Nesting Boxes
Community nesting boxes are large, shared nesting spaces where multiple hens can lay at the same time. While traditional wisdom says “1 box per 3–4 hens,” some flocks prefer a communal box.
Features of a good community box:
- At least 18 to 24 inches deep
- Minimum 12–14 inches of space per hen
- Soft, clean bedding throughout
- A dark, private atmosphere (use curtains or side panels)
You can make a community box out of a large wooden chest, an old cabinet, or even a big drawer turned sideways. Ensure it’s easy to clean and well padded to avoid broken eggs.
Hidden or Camouflaged Nesting Boxes
Free-range chickens love exploring. Hidden or camouflaged nesting boxes can encourage them to lay in specific spots instead of random places under trees, porches, or barns.
Creative camouflaged ideas include:
- Wooden barrels or planters with a side opening and bedding inside
- Hollow logs or tree stumps outfitted with soft bedding
- Old toolboxes or chests disguised with natural elements
Make the box blend into the environment while staying accessible for you. Keep it shaded, quiet, and slightly elevated to prevent predators or moisture from getting in.
Maintaining Clean and Comfortable Nesting Boxes
Cleaning Frequency and Techniques
A clean nesting box is essential—not only for your chickens' health but also for ensuring your eggs stay fresh and safe for consumption. Dirty boxes lead to soiled eggs, bad smells, and a higher risk of mites and parasites.
Cleaning schedule:
- Daily: Remove any poop, broken eggs, or soiled bedding.
- Weekly: Replace all bedding and wipe down interior surfaces with a safe cleaning solution.
- Monthly: Deep clean with vinegar or a poultry-safe disinfectant. Let boxes dry fully before adding fresh bedding.
Pro tips:
- Use rubber liners or removable trays for quick cleaning.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth or natural herbs like mint and lavender to deter pests and reduce odor.
- Use natural cleaners like white vinegar or essential oil sprays—avoid bleach or harsh chemicals near your hens.
Keeping nesting boxes clean makes hens more likely to use them. If your chickens avoid a box they used to love, it’s probably time for a refresh.
Preventing Parasites and Rodents
Nesting boxes can attract unwanted visitors—mites, lice, and rodents. To keep pests at bay:
- Elevate your nesting boxes at least 18 inches off the ground.
- Seal all gaps in wood or plastic that could serve as entry points.
- Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or bay leaves around the coop.
- Regularly rotate and replace bedding to disrupt pest lifecycles.
- Consider installing rodent-proof latches or wire mesh underneath boxes.
Inspect your hens weekly for signs of mites or lice: excessive preening, bald patches, or scabs can be red flags.
Seasonal Nesting Box Maintenance Tips
Each season brings its own nesting box challenges. Here’s how to prep your boxes year-round:
Spring:
- Deep clean and disinfect after winter.
- Check for mold or rot in wooden boxes.
- Increase ventilation as humidity rises.
Summer:
- Ensure good airflow to keep hens cool.
- Use lightweight bedding like hemp or straw.
- Shade nesting areas to prevent overheating.
Fall:
- Add insulation or thicker bedding.
- Inspect for leaks before heavy rains.
- Adjust placement if flooding is a concern.
Winter:
- Add extra straw or use thermal pads for warmth.
- Block drafts but maintain light airflow.
- Avoid moisture buildup, which can cause frostbite.
Encouraging Chickens to Use Nesting Boxes
Training Young Hens
If you’ve ever raised young pullets, you know they don’t automatically understand where to lay. Some will happily plop eggs wherever they feel safe—unless you give them a bit of guidance.
Tips to train hens:
- Introduce nesting boxes early (around 16–18 weeks of age).
- Place fake eggs (wood, ceramic, or golf balls) inside the boxes to show them where to lay.
- Limit access to dark corners or secluded areas outside the boxes.
- Observe laying patterns and adjust based on where they tend to go.
With a little patience and persistence, most hens will catch on quickly.
Nesting Box Curtains and Privacy Tips
Hens value privacy when laying. Nesting box curtains provide a cozy, private environment that encourages more consistent laying behavior.
How to make simple curtains:
- Use old pillowcases, feed sacks, or fabric scraps.
- Hang them over the front of each box using nails or a staple gun.
- Ensure the curtain is easy to push aside and doesn’t block airflow.
Benefits of curtains include:
- Reduced stress in nervous hens
- Increased egg production
- Fewer pecking issues
- A more appealing environment for broody hens
Dealing with Egg-Laying Outside the Box
Is your hen laying eggs in weird spots? You’re not alone—it happens more than you’d think.
Here’s how to get them back on track:
- Block off access to frequent “rogue laying” spots.
- Keep nesting boxes clean, cozy, and stocked with bedding.
- Provide enough boxes to prevent territorial disputes.
- Collect eggs often—hens may avoid boxes with existing eggs.
- Add more lighting if boxes are too dark or damp.
Chickens are creatures of habit. Once they start using the nesting boxes consistently, they’ll stick to it—especially if those boxes meet their comfort needs.
Nesting Box Add-Ons and Upgrades
Using Curtains for Privacy
We touched on this earlier, but nesting box curtains deserve their own spotlight. These aren’t just decorative—they actually improve the behavior and well-being of your laying hens. When a hen enters a nesting box and finds it dark and private, it mimics the kind of safe environment they would seek out in the wild.
Curtain benefits:
- Reduces distractions during egg-laying
- Minimizes egg-pecking behavior from other hens
- Calms broody hens, making them more likely to sit on their clutch
You don’t need anything fancy. Even a piece of burlap or an old shirt cut into strips works wonders. Ensure it’s short enough for easy entry, but long enough to shield from view. Fasten securely and change it out seasonally or when soiled.
Adding Perches and Roofs
Some hens like a little extra flair on their box. Adding a small perch in front of the nesting box gives them a comfy place to land before stepping inside and helps reduce traffic jams.
Likewise, roofs—especially sloped ones—discourage roosting on top of the boxes, which keeps droppings out and eggs clean. A sloped roof also adds a neat, finished look to your coop.
Bonus idea: turn your perch into a “cleaning rail” by mounting it on hinges so you can lift it up while sweeping under the boxes.
Installing Lighting and Ventilation
While chickens prefer dim spaces for laying, total darkness isn’t ideal—especially in the winter months when sunlight is scarce. A small amount of natural or artificial light near the nesting boxes helps hens feel safe without overstimulating them.
Good ventilation is essential to prevent mold, moisture, and respiratory issues. Just make sure there's no direct draft blowing into the box.
Options for upgrades:
- LED motion-sensor lights
- Solar-powered coop lights
- Screened vents placed high on coop walls
A balance of airflow and lighting will ensure your hens have the ideal egg-laying space year-round.
Troubleshooting Nesting Box Problems
Broken or Cracked Eggs
There’s nothing more frustrating than reaching into a box and finding a goopy mess instead of a fresh egg. Broken eggs can lead to waste, attract pests, and even encourage hens to start eating eggs—a habit you do not want.
What causes egg breakage?
- Thin or soft shells (due to calcium deficiency)
- Hens stepping on eggs after laying
- Too many hens in one box
- Insufficient bedding
- Sloped or hard surfaces
Solutions:
- Feed your hens a calcium supplement like oyster shell grit.
- Add extra bedding to cushion the eggs.
- Ensure boxes are the correct size—12" square is usually perfect.
- Install roll-away nesting boxes to protect eggs right after they're laid.
If one of your hens is breaking eggs on purpose, isolate her behavior early. Egg-eating can spread through your flock quickly.
Broody Hens Hogging Boxes
When a hen decides she wants to hatch her eggs, she goes “broody.” She’ll sit in the nesting box 24/7, often puffed up and cranky, refusing to let others in.
How to handle a broody hen:
- Provide extra nesting boxes if space allows.
- Mark fertile eggs and collect others quickly to prevent theft.
- Isolate the broody hen in a “broody breaker” cage if you don’t want chicks.
- Let her hatch if you're prepared for new chicks.
Fighting or Overcrowding Issues
Hens need their own space. If you notice frequent squabbles, pecking, or hens refusing to use nesting boxes, reevaluate your setup.
Signs of overcrowding:
- Eggs being laid outside the boxes
- Loud squawking and shuffling at laying time
- Hens waiting in line while one hogs the box
Solutions:
- Add more nesting boxes or separate nesting areas.
- Rearrange the coop layout to give each box more space.
- Add visual barriers (curtains or dividers) between boxes.
- Break up "bully hens" by temporarily isolating them.
Conclusion
Providing your chickens with the perfect nesting box setup isn’t just about collecting clean eggs—it's about understanding and supporting your flock’s natural instincts. Whether you choose a rustic DIY wooden crate, a high-tech roll-away system, or something creative like a hidden flowerpot box, the key is to tailor your design to your hens’ comfort and your convenience.
Pay attention to how your chickens behave, keep their boxes clean and inviting, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different ideas. A happy hen is a productive hen—and a productive hen means more delicious, fresh eggs for you and your family.
So go ahead—get creative, upgrade your coop, and give your girls the best nesting experience they deserve!
FAQs
1. How often should nesting boxes be cleaned?
Do a light clean (removing droppings or dirty bedding) daily, a full bedding change and wipe-down weekly, and a deep clean with safe disinfectants monthly.
2. Can chickens share a nesting box?
Yes, typically one nesting box for every 3–4 hens is sufficient. Chickens don’t mind sharing, but ensure there are enough boxes to avoid overcrowding and stress.
3. What is the best bedding for nesting boxes?
The best bedding options include straw, pine shavings, hemp, or shredded paper. They should be soft, absorbent, and easy to replace regularly.
4. Why are my chickens not laying in the nesting boxes?
Common reasons include dirty boxes, lack of privacy, overcrowding, or improper box placement. Adding curtains, fake eggs, or adjusting placement can help redirect them.
5. Are roll-away nesting boxes worth it?
Absolutely—especially if you have problems with broken eggs or egg-eating. They keep eggs clean and safe and reduce how often you need to collect them.
