The Ultimate Guide to Using Deep Litter Method!

Less cleaning, a warmer coop, and free compost in the spring — the deep litter method is one of the smartest things a backyard chicken keeper can do. Here’s how to do it right.

What Is the Deep Litter Method?

Instead of cleaning out your coop every week, the deep litter method lets bedding and droppings build up in layers over time, composting naturally on the coop floor. The decomposing material generates gentle heat, controls odors through microbial activity, and produces rich compost by spring. It’s low-maintenance, effective, and works especially well through a Minnesota winter.

Why It Works

• Natural insulation: Decomposing bedding generates heat from the floor up — a meaningful warmth boost when temperatures drop below zero
• Odor control: Active composting microbes break down ammonia and droppings, keeping the coop fresher than frequent cleanouts
• Moisture management: High-absorbency bedding like hemp captures humidity before it becomes a problem
• Time-saving: Add fresh bedding as needed rather than doing full weekly cleanouts
• Free compost: Come spring, you’ll have a coop full of nutrient-rich material ready for the garden

The Best Bedding for Deep Litter

Not all bedding composts equally. FLAX FARMS Hemp & Canola Blend Bedding is our top recommendation for deep litter — it’s highly absorbent, low dust, breaks down beautifully into compost, and the hemp pellets actively capture odors as they absorb moisture. It’s a natural fit for this method.

Shop it: FLAX FARMS – Hemp & Canola Blend Bedding, 33 lbs.

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Deep Litter

Step 1: Start with a Clean, Dry Coop

Remove any existing bedding and let the floor dry completely before starting. A clean slate ensures your composting layers build correctly from the beginning.

Step 2: Lay a 4–6 Inch Base Layer

Add 4–6 inches of FLAX FARMS Hemp & Canola Blend across the entire coop floor. This deep starting layer is what makes the method work — it gives the composting process room to develop and keeps moisture away from your birds.

Step 3: Add Fresh Bedding Weekly

Each week, add about 1 inch of fresh bedding on top of the existing layer. This keeps the surface clean and comfortable while the lower layers continue composting.

Pro tip: Sprinkle a light dusting of First Saturday Lime over droppings before adding fresh bedding. It helps neutralize ammonia, deters insects, and accelerates the composting process — a small step that makes a big difference.

Step 4: Monitor Moisture

The bedding should feel dry to the touch, even at the lower layers. If it feels damp or you notice ammonia smell building, add 1–2 inches of fresh bedding and check your ventilation. Good airflow is essential — the coop should breathe without being drafty.

Step 5: Fluff Monthly

Once a month, use a rake or pitchfork to fluff and turn the bedding. This breaks up compacted spots, promotes air circulation through the layers, and keeps the composting process active and heat-generating.

Step 6: Spring Cleanout

In spring, remove all the bedding and add it directly to your garden beds, compost pile, or pasture. FLAX FARMS Hemp & Canola Blend breaks down into rich, dark compost that your plants will love. Then start fresh for the new season.

How Much Bedding Will You Need?

Here’s a quick estimate based on coop size for your starting layer (4–6 inches deep):

• Small coop (3×3 ft): Start with ½ bag; add ¼ bag weekly
• Medium coop (4×6 ft): Start with 1–2 bags; add ¼–½ bag weekly
• Large coop (6×10 ft): Start with 3–4 bags; add up to 1 bag weekly

Each 33 lb. bag covers approximately 10–12 sq ft at a 4–6 inch depth.

Ready to get started? Pick up FLAX FARMS Hemp & Canola Blend Bedding at BloomingtonFarmAndFeed.com and have it delivered to your door. Your flock will be cozier, your coop will stay fresher, and your garden will thank you come spring.