I keep backyard chickens, and I’ve learned fast that the right setup saves time, money, and a whole lot of “why is everything wet” moments. This list is the stuff I actually recommend for a safe coop, clean feed and water, healthier birds, and easier...
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Predator-proof coop and run
Feeding and watering that stays clean
Bedding, odor control, and cleanup
Eggs and nesting
Chicks and brooder basic
Trusted chicken guides (free learning)
Predator-proof coop and run
Chicken wire is basically decorative. Hardware cloth is what actually keeps raccoons and other predators out.
1/2in 16x50' Galvanized 19Ga Hardware Cloth
Raccoons have tiny hands and big confidence. If I can open it with one motion, they can too.
Large Gate Latch
This is my “I want my evenings back” upgrade. It removes the daily fear of “did I close the coop door?”
T50
Same sanity-saver category. Great for consistency, and consistency is what keeps chickens safe at night.
automatic chicken coop door opener
This is what I recommend when you want real predator pressure protection and rotational grazing without building a fortress.
PoultryNet® and PoultryNet® Plus 12/42/3 Electric Netting
Simple. Cheap. Helps deter nighttime visitors and makes coop checks less sketchy.
Best Rated Motion Sensor Security Lights
Feeding and watering that stays clean
If you’ve ever seen feed disappear overnight, this pays for itself. Less waste, fewer rodents.
Grandpa's Feeders
Hanging feeders stay cleaner because chickens can’t throw feed everywhere like tiny feathered toddlers.
Chicken Feeder with Anti-Roost Lid, Slider Port Cover
Cleaner water = fewer gross problems. Nipple systems keep bedding from turning into swamp soup.
Vertical (gravity) vs. horizontal (spring loaded) watering nipples
Winter game-changer. Not having to thaw water twice a day makes me feel like I’m winning at life.
Poultry Drinker Heater Base for Chicken Waterer Founts | Deicer Heated Base
Stronger shells, fewer cracked eggs. I keep it available free-choice.
Tractor Supply Co.
If birds eat anything beyond pellet feed, grit helps digestion. It’s one of those boring things that matters.
Manna Pro Poultry Grit with Probiotics, 25 lb.
Bedding, odor control, and cleanup
Pine shavings are the easiest “classic” option. Hemp is pricier but awesome for odor control.
Pine Shavings For Chickens
This is my “make the coop smell like I’m a responsible adult” powder.
Cut to fit coop floor. Cleaning becomes a scrape-and-go situation. Also helps keep the floor drier.
Thick Rubber Stall Mat
You will use this more than you think. It’s the fastest daily cleanup tool.
Metal Pooper Scooper
Eggs and nesting
This helps train new layers where to lay. Also reduces the “why are there eggs in the corner” scavenger hunt.
Poultry Nesting
Cleaner eggs and fewer broken eggs. Great if you have egg-eaters or muddy feet season.
Large (48") Reversible Roll Out Chicken Nest Box (Up To 50 hens)
Small thing, big joy. Makes collecting feel fun instead of chaotic.
Egg Baskets
You will always need more cartons than you think, even if you swear you won’t.
Egg cartons
Chicks and brooder basic
I prefer brooder plates over heat lamps for peace of mind. No bright light all night, and it encourages natural behavior.
EcoGlow Safety 600 Chick Brooder
This is such a good “big space, easy clean” brooder hack. Less mess, less stress, more room as they grow.
Dog Playpen
For really tiny baby chickens, put marbles in the waterer where they drink from. This prevents them from getting too sleepy and falling into the water deeply.
Small Chick Waterers and Food
Trusted chicken guides (free learning)
Great practical overview. Especially helpful for people starting from zero.
Raising Backyard Chickens
This is solid for coop basics like ventilation and keeping the space dry.
Small Scale Poultry Housing
Practical predator prevention ideas. Worth reading before you build anything.
