7 Best Nesting Box Alternatives for Unconventional Coops That Save Money

Traditional wooden nesting boxes aren’t your only option when designing an unconventional chicken coop. Creative alternatives can save money while maximizing space efficiency and meeting your flock’s unique needs. From repurposed household items to innovative DIY solutions, these seven alternatives will transform your coop into a functional egg-laying paradise.

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Repurposed Milk Crates: Budget-Friendly and Versatile

Standard plastic milk crates transform into excellent nesting boxes with minimal investment and maximum adaptability. You’ll find these durable containers at farm supply stores or through online retailers for $8-15 each.

Benefits of Using Milk Crates as Nesting Boxes

Milk crates offer superior ventilation through their built-in slotted design. The plastic construction resists moisture damage and cleaning becomes effortless with a garden hose. You can stack them vertically to maximize vertical space in cramped coops, and the uniform dimensions create consistent nesting areas that hens readily accept.

How to Modify Milk Crates for Optimal Comfort

Add removable wooden floors using ½-inch plywood cut to fit snugly inside the crate bottom. Line with straw or wood shavings for cushioning and easy cleaning. Attach privacy curtains using fabric strips or burlap secured to the front edges, creating the enclosed feeling hens prefer for laying.

Installation Tips for Different Coop Configurations

Mount crates 18-24 inches off the ground using sturdy brackets or wooden supports. Angle them slightly forward (5-10 degrees) to prevent eggs from rolling out. Create access ramps with textured boards, and ensure you can remove the wooden floors for weekly cleaning without dismantling the entire setup.

Modified Storage Totes: Weatherproof and Spacious

Storage totes offer excellent protection from the elements while providing more room for your hens to move around comfortably. They’re particularly useful if you’re dealing with harsh weather conditions or need larger nesting spaces for bigger breeds.

Selecting the Right Size and Material

Choose 18-gallon storage totes with thick walls and secure-fitting lids for durability. Look for opaque containers rather than clear ones, as hens prefer privacy when laying eggs. Heavy-duty polypropylene models withstand temperature extremes better than thin plastic alternatives and won’t crack during winter months.

Creating Proper Ventilation and Access Points

Cut a 6-inch circular entrance hole 4 inches from the bottom using a heated knife for smooth edges. Drill several ¼-inch ventilation holes near the top corners to prevent condensation buildup. Install hinges on the lid for easy egg collection and cleaning access without disturbing your hens.

Adding Bedding and Comfort Features

Line the bottom with 2-3 inches of pine shavings or straw for cushioning and moisture absorption. Add a small wooden perch near the entrance if space allows, giving hens a landing spot. Consider placing a fake egg inside initially to encourage use, as some hens need visual cues to recognize new nesting areas.

Hanging Bucket Nests: Space-Saving Solutions

Hanging bucket nests transform vertical space into productive laying areas when floor space is limited. You’ll maximize your coop’s capacity while creating comfortable, secure nesting spots that hens readily accept.

Choosing Food-Grade Buckets for Safety

Food-grade 5-gallon buckets ensure your hens’ health and safety. Look for buckets marked with recycling codes 1, 2, 4, or 5 on the bottom. Restaurant supply stores and bakeries often sell clean buckets for $3-5 each.

Avoid construction buckets that may contain chemical residues. White or light-colored buckets stay cooler in summer heat than dark alternatives.

Mounting Techniques for Stability

Secure mounting prevents dangerous swinging that could injure hens or damage eggs. Use two heavy-duty eye bolts through the bucket’s rim, connected to ceiling joists or sturdy wall brackets with aircraft cable or chain.

Position buckets 18-24 inches off the ground at a 15-degree forward angle. This height prevents roosting while keeping nests accessible for cleaning and egg collection.

Customizing Entry Holes and Perches

Cut entrance holes 6-8 inches in diameter, positioned 2 inches from the bucket’s top edge. Sand rough edges smooth to prevent feather damage and injuries during entry and exit.

Install a 4-inch wooden perch 6 inches below each entrance hole. Hens need this landing platform to comfortably access their nesting space and feel secure while laying.

Repurposed Drawers: Rustic and Functional

Old wooden drawers transform into charming nesting boxes that perfectly complement rustic coop designs. You’ll find these drawer alternatives offer excellent depth and natural materials that hens prefer for laying.

Finding Suitable Wooden Drawers

Estate sales and thrift stores offer the best selection of solid wooden drawers for $5-15 each. You’ll want drawers measuring at least 12x12x8 inches to accommodate most chicken breeds comfortably.

Skip particle board or laminated options since moisture will cause them to deteriorate quickly. Look for drawers with dovetail joints or solid construction that’ll withstand daily use and cleaning.

Preparing and Treating Wood Surfaces

Sand rough surfaces to prevent splinters and apply food-safe mineral oil to protect the wood naturally. You’ll need to reapply this treatment every 3-4 months to maintain moisture resistance.

Remove old hardware and fill screw holes with wood filler before sanding smooth. This creates a clean interior surface that’s easier to sanitize between uses.

Securing Drawers in Tight Spaces

Mount drawers at 18-20 inches high using L-brackets attached to coop walls for maximum stability. You can stack multiple drawers vertically to maximize your limited floor space effectively.

Angle drawers slightly downward toward the entrance to prevent eggs from rolling out during collection. This 5-degree tilt also helps with drainage if moisture accumulates inside the nesting area.

Fabric Hanging Pouches: Soft and Portable

Fabric pouches offer your hens the softest nesting experience while giving you the ultimate flexibility to move them anywhere in your coop. They’re particularly valuable when you need temporary nesting solutions or want to experiment with different locations.

Selecting Durable Outdoor Fabrics

Canvas and ripstop nylon consistently outperform other materials in coop environments. You’ll want fabric that’s at least 12-ounce weight to handle a hen’s scratching and the weight of eggs. Duck canvas works exceptionally well because it’s naturally water-resistant and becomes more durable with age. Avoid cotton blends since they’ll rot quickly in humid conditions and won’t hold their shape after repeated washings.

Creating Comfortable Curved Bottoms

Your pouches need rounded bottoms to cradle eggs naturally and prevent breakage. Sew a curved seam about 3 inches from each corner to create this pocket shape. The curve distributes a hen’s weight evenly and reduces pressure points that could cause discomfort. Adding a removable foam insert wrapped in waterproof fabric gives extra cushioning while keeping the cleaning process manageable for weekly maintenance.

Maintenance and Washing Considerations

Machine washing on hot cycles kills bacteria and mites that accumulate in fabric fibers over time. Remove all bedding and debris before washing, then air-dry completely to prevent mold growth. You’ll need at least two pouches per nesting spot to rotate them during cleaning cycles. Pre-treat stains with enzyme cleaners designed for pet messes since they break down organic compounds more effectively than standard detergents.

PVC Pipe Constructions: Modern and Easy to Clean

PVC pipe nesting boxes offer the ultimate in cleanability while providing excellent durability against weather and pecking damage. These lightweight constructions resist bacteria buildup and eliminate the wood rot issues that plague traditional boxes after years of moisture exposure.

Designing Custom PVC Nesting Chambers

Build your chambers using 6-inch PVC pipe sections cut to 12-inch lengths for optimal nesting space. Connect these chambers with 90-degree elbows and T-joints to create multi-unit arrays that maximize your coop’s wall space efficiently. Cap the back ends with solid PVC caps while leaving front openings at 4-inch diameter for easy hen access.

Assembly Tools and Connection Methods

Use a hacksaw or PVC pipe cutter for clean cuts that prevent sharp edges from injuring your birds. Apply PVC primer and cement at all joints to ensure permanent connections that won’t separate under hen weight or movement. Sand any rough cut edges smooth and test-fit all pieces before applying cement for foolproof assembly.

Drainage and Ventilation Solutions

Drill quarter-inch drainage holes every 3 inches along the bottom of each chamber to prevent moisture accumulation. Install small ventilation holes near the top rear of each unit to promote airflow without creating drafts. Angle your completed units slightly downward toward the entrance to encourage natural drainage and prevent egg rolling.

Converted Laundry Baskets: Lightweight and Accessible

Laundry baskets make surprisingly effective nesting boxes that you can move around your coop as needed. They’re affordable, lightweight, and offer better access than many traditional boxes.

Plastic vs Wicker Basket Considerations

Plastic baskets handle weather and cleaning much better than wicker alternatives. They won’t absorb moisture or harbor mites like natural materials do.

Wicker looks charming but falls apart quickly in coop conditions. The weave traps dirt and bacteria that you can’t scrub out effectively.

Choose thick-walled plastic baskets over thin ones. They’ll support hen weight without cracking under pressure from scratching and nesting behavior.

Reinforcement Techniques for Durability

Add a plywood base inside each basket to prevent sagging under hen weight. Cut it slightly smaller than the basket bottom for easy cleaning.

Drill small drainage holes through both the plywood and plastic bottom. This prevents water buildup that creates bacterial problems.

Secure baskets to coop walls with zip ties or brackets. Loose baskets tip over when hens jump in aggressively during laying rushes.

Positioning for Easy Egg Collection

Mount baskets at waist height to save your back during daily egg collection. Your hens can easily hop up while you avoid constant bending.

Angle baskets slightly downward toward the front opening. This prevents eggs from rolling to the back where they’re harder to reach.

Space multiple baskets 18 inches apart minimum. Hens need room to move between boxes without feeling crowded or territorial.

Conclusion

Your chicken coop doesn’t have to rely on expensive traditional nesting boxes to keep your hens happy and productive. These seven creative alternatives prove that innovation and practicality can go hand in hand while saving you money.

Whether you choose repurposed milk crates for their durability or hanging fabric pouches for their portability each option offers unique benefits that can transform your coop’s functionality. The key is matching your choice to your specific setup and your flock’s needs.

Remember that successful egg-laying depends more on comfort and security than fancy equipment. Your hens will appreciate any clean dry space that gives them privacy and peace of mind during laying time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main benefits of using alternative nesting boxes instead of traditional wooden ones?

Alternative nesting boxes offer several advantages including cost savings, better space optimization, improved ventilation, easier cleaning and maintenance, and resistance to moisture damage. Many alternatives like plastic milk crates and storage totes are also more durable and can be customized to meet your flock’s specific needs while providing better functionality.

How much do plastic milk crates cost and why are they good for chicken nesting boxes?

Plastic milk crates typically cost $8-15 each, making them a budget-friendly option. They provide excellent ventilation, resist moisture damage, and are easy to clean. You can modify them by adding removable wooden floors and privacy curtains to create a comfortable nesting environment for your hens.

What size storage totes work best for chicken nesting boxes?

18-gallon storage totes with thick walls and secure-fitting lids work best for chicken nesting boxes. Choose opaque materials to provide privacy for your hens. These totes are particularly beneficial in harsh weather conditions and can accommodate larger chicken breeds while offering weatherproof protection.

How do you properly install hanging bucket nests in a chicken coop?

Use food-grade 5-gallon buckets and mount them securely to prevent swinging that could injure hens. Cut appropriate entry holes, install perches for easy access, and ensure proper spacing between buckets. This solution is ideal for coops with limited floor space and maximizes vertical space utilization.

What type of fabric works best for hanging nesting pouches?

Use durable outdoor fabrics like canvas and ripstop nylon with at least 12-ounce weight to withstand scratching and support egg weight. Design pouches with rounded bottoms to cradle eggs and prevent breakage. These soft, portable solutions are perfect for temporary setups or testing different coop locations.

How do you build PVC pipe nesting boxes for chickens?

Use 6-inch PVC pipe sections connected with elbows and T-joints to create custom nesting chambers. Make clean cuts, ensure secure connections, and drill quarter-inch drainage holes and small ventilation holes for moisture prevention and airflow. PVC boxes are lightweight, resist bacteria buildup, and eliminate wood rot issues.

Are converted laundry baskets effective as chicken nesting boxes?

Yes, laundry baskets make lightweight and accessible nesting boxes that can be easily moved around the coop. Plastic baskets are more durable than wicker ones. Reinforce them with plywood bases, drill drainage holes, and mount them at waist height for easy egg collection while ensuring proper spacing.