Providing your flock with a proper place to lay eggs is one of the most important aspects of keeping chickens. A good nesting box offers a dark, private, and comfortable space that encourages laying and helps keep eggs clean and intact. With the right box, you can say goodbye to searching through bedding for hidden eggs and reduce the chances of breakage or hens eating their own eggs.
The ideal nesting box suits your coop’s size, your flock’s number, and your personal management style. Options range from simple wooden designs to sophisticated systems that automatically roll eggs to a safe collection area. This roundup covers ten of the best chicken nesting boxes available, highlighting features that make each one a standout choice for different needs and setups.
Our Top Picks for Chicken Nesting Boxes
- Precision Pet 7029288 Triple Nesting Box, Brown
- Homestead Essentials Classic Style 3 Compartment Rollout Box
- Brower 2-Tier 10-Hole Galvanized Steel Nesting Box
- Homestead Essentials 2 Compartment Roll Out Nesting Box
- ZenxyHoC Two-Tier Chicken Nesting Box, 6 Hole Metal
- Chicken Nesting Boxes, 6 Compartments Metal with Roll Out
- Nesting Boxes for Chickens Coop, Wooden 6 Compartment
- 6 Hole Chicken Nesting Box, Roll-Away Egg Collection System
- Tgeyd Nesting Boxes – 6 Holes for Laying Eggs
- Harris Farms Plastic Nesting Box
Precision Pet 7029288 Triple Nesting Box, Brown
The Precision Pet Triple Nesting Box offers a simple and effective solution for providing dedicated laying spaces. Its classic brown design is versatile enough for use inside a coop or in an outdoor run. The triple compartment design is excellent for eliminating nest sharing, which can lead to broken eggs and stressed hens.
This box is part of a series where you can choose a single, double, or triple unit based on your flock size. The straightforward design makes it easy to install and fill with your preferred nesting material. It provides the essential dark and secluded environment that encourages natural laying behavior.
Homestead Essentials Classic Style 3 Compartment Rollout Box
Constructed from galvanized steel, the Homestead Essentials Classic Style Nesting Box is built for long-term durability and stability. It features a forward rollout and rollaway system that gently guides eggs into a protected collection area. This design keeps eggs safe from being pecked or broken by hens and simplifies your daily collection routine.
An integrated perch gives hens a comfortable spot to step into the box, and each of the three compartments can comfortably accommodate up to five medium-to-large hens. The design focuses on creating an optimal egg-laying environment that is private, safe, and sheltered, giving your hens plenty of room to relax while laying.
Brower 2-Tier 10-Hole Galvanized Steel Nesting Box
For those with larger flocks, the Brower 2-Tier Nesting Box is a high-capacity solution made in the USA. This unit provides ten individual laying holes in a compact two-tier design, suitable for 50 to 60 hens. It offers safe, quiet, and compact spaces that are ideal for supporting small-scale farms and local food production.
The heavy-duty galvanized steel construction is made to withstand harsh weather and resist rust and corrosion. The design is optimized for coop conditions with integrated side ventilation to reduce moisture and odor. A slanted roof helps deflect rain and discourages birds from roosting on top, keeping the nesting areas clean.
Homestead Essentials 2 Compartment Roll Out Nesting Box
This two-pack from Homestead Essentials provides a heavy-duty nesting solution for smaller coops or as a supplemental laying station. Each unit is a two-compartment box designed to accommodate up to ten hens. The roll-out design is a key feature, ensuring eggs are collected safely away from the hens immediately after they are laid.
The heavy-duty build promises longevity, and the included lid cover protects the collected eggs from the elements and curious beaks. This system is perfect for flock owners who want the benefits of automatic egg collection without investing in a large, multi-unit system, allowing for flexible placement within your coop.
ZenxyHoC Two-Tier Chicken Nesting Box, 6 Hole Metal
The ZenxyHoC Two-Tier Nesting Box in a vibrant red color offers six laying holes in a space-saving vertical design. Its primary benefit is easy egg collection, providing a secure and welcoming location that reduces the need to hunt for eggs. This consistency can help lower stress within the coop as chickens learn to rely on a comfortable nesting site.
This box is designed to provide nesting spaces for up to 30 chickens. Maintenance is simplified with a removable tray that is easy to clean and prevents water retention. Debris falls through the mesh tray, and any excess can be rinsed away with water, promoting better hygiene for your flock.
Chicken Nesting Boxes, 6 Compartments Metal with Roll Out
This six-bay metal nesting box features an automatic roll-away egg collection system. The slight tilt in the design allows eggs to roll forward under a secure lid immediately after laying, keeping them safe until collection. This prevents hens from pecking at or breaking the eggs, ensuring a higher yield of intact eggs.
The large capacity design provides room for up to 30 hens, and side ventilation holes promote essential airflow. The compartments are designed to be a clean, safe, private, and comfortable spot for hens to make a nest. This comfortable environment is key to increasing egg production and ensuring your hens’ well-being.
Nesting Boxes for Chickens Coop, Wooden 6 Compartment
For those who prefer a natural material, this wooden nesting box offers six spacious compartments. Made from high-quality solid wood, it provides a natural and safe environment for laying eggs. The unique design creates a confined and private environment for your chickens, which can help increase the egg production rate.
This wall-mounted unit is easy to install and comes with instructions. The upper wall design allows you to place the egg nests anywhere according to your needs, giving you flexibility in coop layout. This gives your poultry a comfortable and safe home that blends well with traditional coop designs.
6 Hole Chicken Nesting Box, Roll-Away Egg Collection System
This green nesting box is engineered for efficiency and hen comfort. It features a 7° sloped floor with a non-stick surface that allows eggs to automatically roll into a removable plastic tray. This hands-free collection system gathers eggs three times faster than traditional methods, and a 2″ raised edge prevents egg loss.
The galvanized steel frame is built to resist pecking damage and rust, ensuring all-weather durability. The darkened interior mimics natural nesting conditions to reduce hen anxiety. Adjustable ventilation slots maintain proper airflow for temperature and moisture control year-round, while the UV-resistant plastic tray withstands a wide temperature range.
Tgeyd Nesting Boxes – 6 Holes for Laying Eggs
The Tgeyd Nesting Box is designed with hen comfort as a priority, offering six comfortable, safe, and sheltered egg-laying areas. This environment helps chickens feel secure, which can lead to a more consistent egg yield. It is a great accessory for any coop looking to provide dedicated laying spaces.
Assembly is straightforward with simple screws and nuts, and hanging holes on the back allow for installation at an optimal height of 10-15 inches. The top and sides are made of durable galvanized steel with side vents for airflow, while the egg-laying area is made of easy-to-clean plastic that resists rust. An improved tray design is less likely to slip off during use.
Harris Farms Plastic Nesting Box
The Harris Farms Plastic Nesting Box is a popular choice for its simplicity and ease of cleaning. Made from durable plastic, it resists moisture and is simple to wipe clean or hose down, helping to maintain a hygienic environment for your hens. The smooth surfaces prevent mites and parasites from hiding.
Its classic single-nest design makes it a versatile unit that can be used alone or in a series to meet your flock’s needs. The dark interior provides the seclusion that hens seek for laying, encouraging natural behavior. This type of box is a fundamental and reliable option for both new and experienced chicken keepers.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Chicken Nesting Boxes for Egg Laying
When I first started keeping chickens, I thought any old box would do for a nesting spot. I quickly learned that a good nesting box is a game-changer for both you and your flock. The right box keeps eggs cleaner, reduces breakage, and gives your hens a safe, private place to do their thing. With so many options out there, from simple wooden designs to modern plastic ones, figuring out what you need can feel overwhelming. Let me walk you through the key things I consider when picking out the best chicken nesting boxes for egg laying.
First up is material. You will mostly find wood, metal, and plastic. Wood is classic, sturdy, and provides great insulation, but it can be tough to clean and might harbor mites if not sealed properly. Plastic is my personal favorite for ease of cleaning; a quick wipe-down is often all it needs. Metal is durable and mite-resistant, but it can get cold in winter and hot in summer, which might not be comfortable for your hens. Think about your local climate and how much time you want to spend on maintenance.
Next, consider the size and the number of boxes. A good rule of thumb is one box for every four to five hens. Each box should be at least 12×12 inches to accommodate most standard breeds comfortably. Larger birds like Orpingtons or Jersey Giants will need something bigger, around 14×14 inches. Don’t go overboard with space, though; if the boxes are too large, you might find multiple hens trying to squeeze into one, which defeats the purpose.
Features can make a big difference in your daily routine. Look for boxes with a sloped roof to discourage hens from roosting on top and pooping all over it. A lip at the front, about 4 inches high, is crucial for keeping nesting material and eggs from rolling out. For the ultimate in convenience, some boxes come with an external access door or a roll-out tray. An external door lets you collect eggs without entering the coop, while a roll-out tray gently guides the egg into a protected compartment, keeping it safe from being pecked or stepped on. These features save time and help protect your harvest.
Finally, think about placement and installation. Nesting boxes should be placed in a dark, quiet, and low-traffic area of the coop. Hens seek out privacy when they are ready to lay. Mount them at least 18 inches off the ground, but lower than your lowest roosting bar to discourage sleeping in them. Whether you choose a standalone unit or one that attaches to your coop’s wall, make sure it is secure and stable. Investing a little time in choosing the right setup will pay off with cleaner eggs and happier, more productive hens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many nesting boxes do I need for my flock?
You do not need as many as you might think. The general recommendation is one nesting box for every four to five hens. Having more boxes than this will not hurt, but it also will not necessarily lead to more eggs. In fact, hens often have a favorite box and will all wait in line for the same one, even if others are free. The key is to provide enough options so that a lower-ranking hen does not get bullied away from all the laying spots. For a small flock of three hens, one box is usually sufficient.
What is the best material to put in a chicken nesting box?
The goal of nesting material is to provide a soft, cushioned base that absorbs moisture and keeps eggs clean. My go-to material is pine shavings. They are affordable, absorbent, and easy to replace. Straw is another popular choice, but make sure it is clean and not moldy. Some people use hay, but it can retain moisture and mold more easily. You can also use dedicated nesting pads, which are often made of rubber or astroturf; these are reusable but need to be cleaned regularly. Avoid materials like sawdust, which is too fine and can cause respiratory issues for your chickens.
Why are my chickens not using the nesting boxes I provided?
This is a common frustration. There are a few reasons your hens might be laying eggs on the coop floor instead of in the boxes. First, check the location. Are the boxes in a busy, bright area? Hens prefer a dark, quiet, and secluded spot. Second, they might be too high or too low. If they are lower than the roosting bars, the chickens might see them as a sleeping area. Third, the boxes could be dirty. Hens are clean creatures and will avoid a soiled nest. Finally, young pullets just starting to lay sometimes need a little training. Placing a fake “nest egg” or even a golf ball in the box can show them where they are supposed to be.
What is the purpose of the lip on the front of a nesting box?
That small lip, usually around 3 to 4 inches high, serves two very important purposes. Its main job is to keep the nesting material (like pine shavings or straw) inside the box. Without it, the hens would scratch most of the bedding out onto the floor. Secondly, it acts as a barrier to prevent the eggs from accidentally rolling out and breaking on the coop floor. This is a simple but critical design feature for any good nesting box.
How often should I clean the nesting boxes?
I make it a habit to do a quick spot-check and removal of any soiled bedding every day when I collect eggs. A full clean-out, where you remove all the old material, scrub the box, and put in fresh bedding, should be done about once a week. This routine helps prevent a buildup of manure, which can soil eggs and attract pests like flies and mites. Keeping the boxes clean also encourages the hens to use them, as they will avoid a dirty nest. If you notice a broken egg, clean it up immediately to keep the hens from developing a bad habit of eating their own eggs.
Can I make my own chicken nesting boxes?
Absolutely! Many chicken keepers build their own, and it can be a fun and cost-effective project. You can repurpose old crates, buckets, or even milk crates. If you are building from wood, just remember the key features: a 12×12 inch interior, a 4-inch front lip, and a sloped roof. The beauty of a DIY project is that you can customize the size and design to fit your specific coop layout. Just ensure whatever you use is secure, has no sharp edges, and is placed in a quiet, dark corner to make it appealing to your hens.