Pecking Order Nest Pads Review: Cleaner Eggs, Less Work?
Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Key Takeaways: Pecking Order Nest Pads Review
- Ultimate Convenience: Pre-formed pads make coop cleaning significantly faster and easier than straw or loose shavings.
- Promotes Hen Health & Happiness: Made from 100% all-natural wood shavings that encourage natural nesting behavior and reduce stress.
- Cleaner, Safer Eggs: Absorbent and cushioned surface keeps eggs clean, reduces cracks, and provides a soft landing.
- Standard Fit: Designed to fit most nesting boxes, making them versatile and practical for backyard chicken keepers.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: The Quest for the Perfect Nest
- Our Expert Verdict
- Key Features & Benefits Explored
- What We Liked
- Potential Drawbacks
- Who Are These Nesting Pads For?
- Comparison to Alternatives
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Introduction: The Quest for the Perfect Nest
If you’re a backyard chicken keeper, you know the joy of collecting fresh, warm eggs every morning. It’s one of the biggest rewards of raising hens. But along with that joy comes the constant challenge of keeping nesting boxes clean, comfortable, and safe. Loose straw and shavings often get kicked out, soiled quickly, and leave eggs messy—or worse, cracked.
The hunt for the perfect nesting material is something nearly every chicken keeper faces. We want something our hens enjoy, that keeps our eggs protected, and that doesn’t make daily coop care a chore. This is where Pecking Order Nest Pads step in. They promise a more efficient, cleaner, and hen-approved alternative to loose bedding. But do they actually live up to the promise? Let’s dig in.
- SUSTAINABLY SOURCED: The aspen used for our nest box pads ar…
- HAND PACKED & INSPECTED: Our team carefully sorts through ea…
- CLEAN NEST BOXES: Nest box pads make it easier than ever to …
- COLLECTING EGGS IS EASY: Eggs often get buried in straw or p…
Our Expert Verdict
After thorough testing, we can confidently say the Pecking Order Nest Pads are one of the most practical upgrades for backyard chicken coops. They eliminate the mess and wasted time of dealing with loose bedding, while creating a safe, inviting nest that hens actually prefer. The cushioned surface reduces egg breakage, while the absorbent wood shavings keep things dry and clean. They aren’t indestructible, and the cost is higher compared to straw or loose shavings, but the payoff in saved time, cleaner eggs, and overall flock comfort makes them worth it for most keepers.
Key Features & Benefits Explored
Made with 100% All-Natural Wood Shavings
No harmful chemicals, no synthetic fillers—just natural wood shavings that are absorbent, comfortable, and safe. They wick away moisture, keeping eggs clean and the nesting area healthier for hens.
Encourages Natural Nesting Behavior
Hens instinctively seek out a cozy, stable spot for laying. These pads provide exactly that, reducing stress and preventing “floor eggs” that often happen when nests aren’t inviting enough.
Fits Standard Nesting Boxes
Sized to fit most 12×12 nesting boxes, these pads make setup effortless. Just place a pad inside, and you’re done—no trimming, stuffing, or reshaping required.
Easy Cleaning and Maintenance
When a pad gets soiled, simply lift it out and replace it. No more scooping or scrubbing bedding out of the corners. This ease of cleaning improves hygiene and saves flock owners valuable time.
Cleaner, Safer Eggs
The cushion helps prevent cracks, while the absorbent surface keeps eggs from sitting in muck. That means fewer dirty eggs to wash and a lower risk of contamination.
What We Liked
- Huge time-saver compared to cleaning out loose bedding.
- Eggs stay noticeably cleaner and safer from breakage.
- Hens adapted quickly and seemed to prefer the pads.
- Reduced waste since shavings stay in place.
- Durable, pressed design that withstands scratching and pecking.
Potential Drawbacks
- More expensive per-use compared to straw or shavings.
- Determined scratchers may eventually tear pads apart.
- Only for nesting boxes—you’ll still need bedding for the main coop floor.
Who Are These Nesting Pads For?
These pads are perfect for backyard chicken keepers who value efficiency and cleanliness. They’re especially great for:
- Busy flock owners who want to save time on cleaning.
- Cleanliness-focused keepers who want spotless eggs.
- New chicken owners looking for a foolproof nesting solution.
- Small to medium flocks where cost remains manageable.
Comparison to Alternatives
Vs. Loose Straw: Cheap but messy, less absorbent, and can harbor mites. Pads win on hygiene and convenience.
Vs. Loose Shavings: Absorbent, but hens kick them out constantly. Pads keep everything in place and intact.
Vs. Rubber Pads: Durable but require washing and drying, which can be a hassle. Pecking Order pads offer disposable simplicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do I replace them? Typically every 1–3 weeks, depending on flock size and use.
Are they safe for hens? Yes—made from all-natural wood shavings, and free from cedar, which can be harmful.
What if hens don’t take to them? Sprinkle some of their old bedding on top for a day or two to help them adjust.
Are they compostable? Yes—used pads can go straight into your compost pile, adding carbon-rich material.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
The Pecking Order Nest Pads simplify coop care, reduce mess, and keep your hens happier. They’re not the cheapest option, but the trade-off in saved time, cleaner eggs, and improved hygiene is worth it. For backyard chicken keepers who want to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying their flock, these pads are a smart investment.
