Pet & Flock Bedding

A clean coop or cage starts with the right bedding!

Bloomington Farm & Feed carries a curated selection of high-absorbency bedding options to suit every flock keeper and pet owner's preference and budget — from pressed pine shavings in small, medium, and large flakes, to locally grown organic hemp bedding and hemp-canola blends for a sustainable, low-dust alternative.

Prefer straw? We carry that too!

Round out your coop & cage maintenance routine with barn lime and First Saturday Lime for odor control and insect repellent, diatomaceous earth for natural pest management, and bedding pellets for maximum absorption.

Available for local delivery or pickup in the Twin Cities metro.

Coop Bedding FAQs

What is the best bedding for a chicken coop?
The best bedding depends on your priorities. Pine shavings are the most popular choice — affordable, absorbent, and widely available. Hemp bedding is a premium low-dust option that absorbs more moisture per pound and composts faster. Straw works well in nesting boxes but breaks down quickly on coop floors. Avoid cedar shavings, which contain aromatic oils that can irritate chickens' respiratory systems.

What's the difference between small, medium, and large flake pine shavings?
Small flake shavings are softer and better for chick brooders and small animals. Medium flake is the most versatile — good for coops, nesting boxes, and rabbit hutches. Large flake shavings are more absorbent and last longer between changes, making them a good choice for high-traffic coops with larger flocks.

Is hemp bedding worth the extra cost?
For many flock keepers, yes. Hemp bedding absorbs 4x its weight in moisture, stays drier longer, and produces less dust than pine — which matters for respiratory health in both birds and keepers. It also composts faster and is grown without pesticides. If you're managing a larger flock or dealing with respiratory issues, the upgrade is often worth it.

What is the deep litter method?
The deep litter method involves building up layers of bedding over time rather than doing full cleanouts. Beneficial microbes break down waste in the lower layers, generating heat and reducing odor. It's especially popular in Minnesota winters because the composting process adds warmth to the coop floor. Start with 4–6 inches of bedding and add fresh layers as needed, doing a full cleanout once or twice a year.

How do I control odor in my chicken coop?
Odor is almost always a moisture problem. Keep bedding dry by ensuring good ventilation, fixing any leaks, and adding fresh bedding regularly. Barn lime (hydrated lime) sprinkled under bedding neutralizes ammonia and helps dry out wet spots. First Saturday Lime is a safer, food-grade alternative that also repels insects. Diatomaceous earth added to bedding helps control mites and absorb moisture.

Read more from our Flock Blog:
→ Best Bedding For Chickens, Game Birds, Ducks & Small Pets
→ The Deep Litter Method: A Complete Guide
→ Winterizing Your Poultry Coop: Tips for Northern Climate Keepers
→ Brooder Setup for Day-Old Chicks: Everything You Need for a Strong Start