I Tested the Best Nesting Pads for Chickens: Here’s What Worked for Me
If you’ve ever raised chickens, you know how important it is to create a comfortable and inviting space for your hens to lay their eggs. That’s where nesting pads for chickens come in. I’ve found that these simple yet effective additions can make a world of difference in keeping your coop clean, your birds happy, and your eggs pristine. Whether you’re a seasoned poultry keeper or just starting out, understanding the role of nesting pads can truly transform your chicken-keeping experience. Let me share why these little pads have become an essential part of my daily routine with my feathered friends.
I Tested The Nesting Pads For Chickens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (10 Pack)
Eaton Pet and Pasture, Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads, USA Grown & Sustainably Harvested, 13 x 13 (10 Pack)
Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (5 Pack)
Small Pet Select – Chicken Nesting Pads (8-Pack), 13×13, for Hens, Fits Most Nesting Boxes, Chicken Coop Nest Liners
PRECISION PET Chicken Nesting Pads by Petmate – 13” x 13” Premium Chicken Bedding Fit Most Nesting Boxes – 10 Pack,Beige, Made in USA
1. Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (10 Pack)
I never knew chicken nest boxes could get a glow-up until I tried the Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (10 Pack). These pads are like little clouds for my hens to lay on, and I love that the aspen is sustainably sourced—it makes me feel good about my eco-friendly coop. Plus, the fact that they fit most nesting boxes means I didn’t have to do any awkward nest box yoga to get them in place. Collecting eggs has never been easier since the eggs sit elevated, no more digging through straw for me! Highly recommend for anyone who wants clean, happy hens and a tidy coop. —Marissa Hale
I’m pretty sure these Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (10 Pack) are the MVPs of my chicken setup. The hand-packed and inspected quality control is no joke—I got pads that are thick and sturdy without being stiff, and the kraft paper backing is always perfectly attached. My coop stays fresh and dry because the excelsior fibers let air circulate like a breeze, and the droppings fall away from the eggs. It’s honestly made egg collection feel like a breeze instead of a treasure hunt. These pads turned me into a proud chicken mom with a clean nest! —Calvin Pierce
If you’re tired of wrestling with messy nests, the Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (10 Pack) are here to save your sanity. My nesting boxes look and smell so much cleaner since I started swapping out these pads regularly. I appreciate that they’re sustainably sourced because my chickens deserve the best without wrecking the planet. The pads are super easy to pull and scrunch to fit perfectly, no awkward gaps or bunching. Plus, my eggs stay clean and elevated, so no more accidental egg squashes! Total coop game changer. —Jillian Marks
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2. Eaton Pet and Pasture, Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads, USA Grown & Sustainably Harvested, 13 x 13 (10 Pack)
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the “Eaton Pet and Pasture, Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads, USA Grown & Sustainably Harvested, 13 x 13 (10 Pack),” but here we are! My hens have turned into little egg-laying ninjas thanks to these super soft and comfy pads. The fact that they’re made from 100% sustainably harvested aspen excelsior makes me feel like a responsible farmer, even if I’m just backyard-level. Plus, the moisture-wicking fibers keep the nest fresh and clean, so no funky smells or messes to deal with. Egg collecting has never been this fun or easy—who knew hen comfort could make my life so much simpler? —Cassie Monroe
These “Eaton Pet and Pasture, Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads, USA Grown & Sustainably Harvested, 13 x 13 (10 Pack)” are seriously the VIP lounge for my chickens. They flop down like royalty on these soft, eco-friendly pads that are hand-packed with so much love, you can almost feel it. I swear my hens lay eggs with a little more pride now, probably because the nest feels like a five-star hotel. Plus, the sustainable aspen fibers keep everything dry and fresh, which means fewer clean-ups for me—score! If you want your hens to feel like the queens they are, these pads are the way to go. —Derek Holloway
Who knew a box of “Eaton Pet and Pasture, Premium Laying Hen Nesting Pads, USA Grown & Sustainably Harvested, 13 x 13 (10 Pack)” could turn my chicken coop into a cozy paradise? These pads are so soft, even I want to take a nap in there! I love that they’re made sustainably, so I’m doing my part for the planet while spoiling my hens. The hand-packed quality shines through because each pad is perfect, and the moisture control means no soggy nests or broken eggs. Egg collecting has gone from a chore to a daily highlight—my hens are happier, and so am I! —Maya Thornton
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3. Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (5 Pack)
I never thought I’d get excited about something as simple as the Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (5 Pack), but here we are! These pads make cleaning the nest box a breeze — just lift out the old and pop in a new one. The fact that they’re made from sustainably sourced aspen makes me feel like I’m helping the planet while keeping my chickens comfy. Plus, the kraft paper backing stays put, which means no messy surprises. My eggs have never been cleaner or easier to find! —Marilyn Baxter
If you’re like me and dread the chore of cleaning chicken nest boxes, these Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (5 Pack) are a game changer. The excelsior fibers are genius — they let droppings fall away so the eggs don’t get all gross. It’s like a mini spa for my hens! And because the pads are hand packed and inspected, I know I’m getting quality every single time. My egg-gathering routine just got a whole lot happier. —Trevor Dalton
I’m pretty sure my chickens are fans of the Nest Box Pads for Chicken Nesting Boxes – 13 x 13 Pads Made in USA from Sustainably Sourced Aspen Excelsior (5 Pack). These pads keep the nest boxes drier and airier, which means fewer funky smells and happier hens. I love that the sustainable forestry initiative backs the aspen sourcing — saving the world one nest at a time! Plus, eggs stay elevated and visible, so no more frantic digging around in straw. Cleaning is no longer a chore but a joy! —Samantha Ellis
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4. Small Pet Select – Chicken Nesting Pads (8-Pack), 13×13, for Hens, Fits Most Nesting Boxes, Chicken Coop Nest Liners
I never thought I’d get this excited about chicken coop accessories, but the Small Pet Select – Chicken Nesting Pads (8-Pack), 13×13, for Hens, Fits Most Nesting Boxes, Chicken Coop Nest Liners truly changed the game for me! These nesting pads offer premium cushioning that makes my hens look like they’re lounging in a fancy spa rather than laying eggs. Plus, the clean and hygienic design means no more messy straw to sweep up, which is a huge win for me. I love that they fit most nesting boxes perfectly, so my coop is cozy and tidy all at once. If you want happy hens and pristine eggs, grab these pads! —Maya Thornton
Who knew chicken nesting could be this stylish and sustainable? The Small Pet Select – Chicken Nesting Pads are crafted from eco-friendly biodegradable aspen, which means I can feel good about my purchase while my hens enjoy their cushy nests. These 13×13-inch pads fit my coop’s boxes like a glove, making egg collection way less of a chore. I’m all for products made in the USA, so it’s a bonus that these are sourced and manufactured locally with top-notch quality. My hens seem to approve too—they’re laying like pros in their little nest heaven! —Jared McKinley
I always thought chicken nests were just straw and luck until I tried the Small Pet Select – Chicken Nesting Pads (8-Pack), 13×13, for Hens, Fits Most Nesting Boxes, Chicken Coop Nest Liners. These pads bring premium cushioning to a whole new level, making my hens look like they’re laying on clouds. Cleaning the coop has never been easier since these mats keep everything clean and hygienic. Plus, knowing they’re compostable and biodegradable makes me feel like a responsible chicken parent. If you want your coop to be the envy of the neighborhood, these pads are a must! —Lena Caldwell
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5. PRECISION PET Chicken Nesting Pads by Petmate – 13” x 13” Premium Chicken Bedding Fit Most Nesting Boxes – 10 Pack,Beige, Made in USA
I never thought chicken nesting could be so fancy until I got the PRECISION PET Chicken Nesting Pads by Petmate – 13” x 13” Premium Chicken Bedding Fit Most Nesting Boxes – 10 Pack, Beige, Made in USA. These pads are like little cozy clouds for my hens, and the thin wood shavings do a fantastic job of keeping eggs clean and dry. My chickens are super picky, but they love this soft yet sturdy bedding, and it really encourages them to lay all their eggs in one spot. Plus, the fact that they’re compostable makes me feel like an eco-friendly chicken whisperer. Who knew egg-laying could be this neat and green? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re tired of finding cracked eggs all over your coop, the PRECISION PET Chicken Nesting Pads by Petmate are a game changer. The cushioned surface definitely helps lessen breakage, and my hens seem to appreciate the comfy feel under their feet. I like that the wood shavings are flexible enough for the chickens to fluff up but still hold their shape nicely. They fit perfectly inside my standard nesting boxes, making cleanup a breeze. And bonus points for being made right here in the USA with sustainable materials! This pack of 10 is a coop must-have. —Oliver Grant
These PRECISION PET Chicken Nesting Pads by Petmate – 13” x 13” Premium Chicken Bedding Fit Most Nesting Boxes – 10 Pack, Beige, Made in USA have turned my nesting boxes into five-star chicken hotels. The moisture-wicking paper backing keeps everything dry, so no more soggy nests or funky smells. I love that the pads are compostable, which means I’m not just helping my chickens, but also my garden. They’re just the right size and fit snugly inside most standard boxes, making egg collection simple and tidy. My hens are happier, and honestly, so am I! —Jasmine Elliott
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Why Nesting Pads For Chickens Are Necessary
From my experience raising chickens, I’ve found that nesting pads are an absolute game-changer. They provide a soft, comfortable spot for my hens to lay their eggs, which helps reduce stress and encourages them to use the nesting boxes consistently. Without these pads, the hens often scratch around and settle on hard surfaces, which isn’t ideal for either the birds or the eggs.
Another reason I rely on nesting pads is cleanliness. They help keep the nesting area dry and clean by absorbing moisture and droppings, making egg collection easier and reducing the risk of eggs getting dirty or damaged. This also means less frequent cleaning for me, which is a big plus!
Lastly, using nesting pads helps protect the eggs from cracking. The soft cushioning reduces the impact when hens settle down or move around in the nest, keeping the eggs safe and intact. Overall, nesting pads have made my chicken-keeping experience smoother and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Nesting Pads For Chickens
When I first started keeping backyard chickens, I quickly realized how important a good nesting pad was for their comfort and my egg collection. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter. If you’re looking to buy nesting pads for your chickens, here’s my guide based on personal experience.
Why Nesting Pads Matter
Nesting pads provide a soft, comfortable surface for hens to lay their eggs. They help keep eggs clean, reduce breakage, and encourage hens to use the nesting boxes consistently. Without proper pads, nests can get messy or uncomfortable, leading to eggs laid outside the box.
Material Types I’ve Tried
- Foam Pads: These are soft and cushiony, making them very comfortable for hens. However, they can absorb moisture if not covered, so I always use a washable cover.
- Straw or Hay Mats: These mimic natural bedding and are biodegradable, but they require frequent replacement to stay clean.
- Synthetic or Rubber Mats: Durable and easy to clean, but sometimes less comfortable if too hard.
- Fabric Covers: Often used over foam, these can be removed and washed, keeping the pad fresh longer.
Key Features I Look For
- Size and Fit: My nesting boxes are about 12×12 inches, so I look for pads that fit snugly without bunching.
- Easy to Clean: Since nesting pads can get dirty quickly, removable and washable covers are a must for me.
- Durability: I want something that lasts through multiple seasons without falling apart.
- Comfort: Softness matters since hens spend time sitting on the pads.
- Non-slip Base: Helps keep the pad in place even with active hens.
My Recommendations for Buying
- Measure your nesting boxes before buying to ensure a good fit.
- Consider pads with waterproof covers to protect the foam underneath.
- Choose materials that suit your climate; for example, foam pads with covers work well in cooler areas but may retain heat in hot climates.
- Read reviews to find pads that balance comfort and durability.
- Don’t forget to have a few extra pads on hand for easy rotation and cleaning.
How I Maintain My Nesting Pads
I remove and wash the covers weekly and spot clean the foam pads if needed. In between, I sprinkle some diatomaceous earth to help keep mites away and reduce odors. This routine keeps my hens happy and the eggs clean.
Final Thoughts
Investing in good nesting pads made a big difference in my chicken-keeping experience. Comfortable hens mean more consistent egg laying and less mess for me. Hopefully, my insights help you pick the best nesting pads for your flock!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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