Why Wood Shavings Are the #1 Choice for Poultry Bedding: 7 Key Reasons

Bedding plays a foundational role in modern poultry farming. For broiler operations in particular, where stocking density is high and hygiene must be tightly controlled, the choice of litter material directly affects bird health, performance, and operational efficiency. Poor-quality bedding can lead to wet litter, elevated ammonia levels, and health complications such as footpad dermatitis, breast blisters, and respiratory issues.

That’s why poultry producers worldwide are turning to wood shavings for poultry bedding—a natural, absorbent, and low-dust solution trusted across climates and production systems. When used correctly, wood shavings help manage moisture, reduce odor, and improve litter consistency, creating a cleaner and safer living environment for the flock.

From day-old chicks to market-ready broilers, birds spend 100% of their lives in contact with litter. The quality of that litter impacts not only their welfare but also their feed conversion rates, growth performance, and mortality. For poultry farms operating at scale, these metrics translate into real financial outcomes.

Moreover, bedding isn’t just about what’s underfoot. Litter conditions directly influence barn humidity, air quality, and ventilation performance. Inadequate bedding can strain climate control systems and reduce productivity.

Choosing the right material—and using it properly—is critical. That’s where AGROVIET wood shavings offer a competitive edge: they’re kiln-dried, sieved to reduce fine particles, and maintain optimal moisture levels for long-term use in poultry houses.

Whether you’re managing 10,000 broilers or scaling to export-oriented production, investing in high-quality poultry bedding like AGROVIET wood shavings is a decision that supports health, efficiency, and profitability across every flock cycle.

How to Use Wood Shavings for Poultry Bedding – A Practical Guide for Farm Owners

Proper litter management plays a vital role in maintaining bird health, improving air quality, and optimizing overall farm productivity. AGROVIET wood shavings—processed from clean, kiln-dried softwood—offer a reliable bedding solution for poultry farms due to their high absorbency, low dust content, and controlled moisture level. Here’s how to use them effectively on your farm.

Step 1: Prepare the Floor

Before placing fresh bedding, ensure the poultry house is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Remove all waste materials and pre-heat the floor 24 hours in advance to a minimum of 28–30°C, especially before placing chicks. This pre-heating step is essential for maintaining chick body temperature and promoting a healthy start.

Step 2: Apply a Uniform Layer

Spread a uniform layer of wood shavings across the entire floor surface.

• Recommended depth: 3–5 cm for general broiler production.
• For young chicks or controlled-environment houses, a thinner layer (approx. 1 cm) can be used initially and adjusted as needed.

Thanks to its fine particle size and pre-sieved texture, AGROVIET shavings can absorb up to 7–8 times their own weight, reducing moisture build-up, ammonia concentration, and the risk of footpad dermatitis and breast blisters.

Step 3: Maintain and Replace

Proper maintenance is essential for effective bedding performance:

• Spot clean heavily soiled areas daily, especially around feeders and drinkers.

• Replace bedding every 4–7 days depending on humidity, stocking density, and bird age.

• Ensure good ventilation (as per broiler climate settings) to reduce humidity and ammonia buildup.

Regularly rotating or topping up the bedding layer enhances comfort, reduces stress, and supports animal welfare—especially in high-density production systems.

Bulk Supply for Global Agri-Businesses

With over 400 international clients and monthly production exceeding 12,000 tons, AGROVIET is equipped to meet the needs of high-volume buyers. Our three large-capacity factories in Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Ho Chi Minh City operate with efficiency, automation, and a commitment to sustainability.

AGROVIET also holds FSC certification, ensuring that all wood used is sourced responsibly from managed forests, in line with environmental and social standards.

Partner with AGROVIET Today!

🌍 Website: www.agroviet.net

📧 Email: kylian@agroviet.net

📞 Phone: +84 967 684 884

🏢 Address: 62 Vo Van Tan, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, HCMC, Vietnam

Read more: https://vietnambestwood.com/general/wood-shaving-wood-pellet-pros-cons/