When comparing hemp bedding vs pine shavings, backyard chicken keepers want bedding that keeps their coop dry, reduces odors, minimizes dust, and creates a healthier environment for their flock. While pine shavings have been the traditional choice for decades, hemp bedding has become increasingly popular thanks to its superior absorbency, low dust, and long-lasting performance.
Both bedding types can work well, but they differ in several important ways. In this guide, we’ll compare hemp bedding vs pine shavings side by side, including absorbency, odor control, dust levels, cost, sustainability, and overall value, so you can choose the best bedding for your chicken coop.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: What Is Hemp Bedding?
Hemp bedding is made from the woody inner core (called the hurd or shive) of industrial hemp plants. After the long fibers are harvested for textiles and other products, the remaining material is processed into highly absorbent animal bedding.
Industrial hemp contains only trace amounts of THC and is completely safe for chickens and other livestock.
Premium hemp bedding offers several advantages:
- Highly absorbent
- Naturally low dust
- Excellent odor control
- Compostable
- Long lasting
- Renewable and sustainable
Many backyard chicken keepers also use hemp bedding successfully with the Deep Litter Method because it manages moisture exceptionally well.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: What Are Pine Shavings?
Pine shavings have been one of the most widely used chicken bedding materials for many years. Produced from kiln-dried softwood lumber, they are readily available and generally cost less per bag than hemp bedding.
However, not all pine shavings are created equal. Some products contain large flakes, while others include fine particles and excess dust. Moisture absorption and quality can vary considerably between manufacturers.
Although pine shavings remain a dependable option, many poultry owners are switching to hemp bedding for improved cleanliness and longer-lasting performance.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Absorbency
Winner: Hemp Bedding
Absorbency is one of the biggest differences between these two bedding materials.
Premium hemp bedding can absorb approximately four to five times its own weight in moisture, helping keep your coop dry for longer periods.
Better moisture absorption means:
- Drier litter
- Cleaner nesting boxes
- Reduced bacteria growth
- Healthier living conditions
Pine shavings absorb moisture reasonably well but generally become saturated more quickly, requiring more frequent replacement.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Odor Control
Winner: Hemp Bedding
Chicken droppings produce ammonia as moisture accumulates.
Since hemp bedding absorbs moisture much more efficiently, it naturally reduces ammonia buildup and unpleasant coop odors.
Many flock owners notice:
- Fresher-smelling coops
- Reduced ammonia
- Less frequent cleaning
While pine shavings initially have a pleasant pine scent, odors often return quickly once the bedding becomes damp.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Dust Levels
Winner: Hemp Bedding
Dust can affect both chickens and their owners.
Excess dust may irritate respiratory systems, especially in enclosed coops during winter.
Premium hemp bedding contains significantly less dust than many pine shaving products, making it an excellent choice for:
- Baby chicks
- Older chickens
- Birds with respiratory sensitivity
- Indoor brooders
- Winter coops
Lower dust also means cleaner feeders, waterers, and nesting boxes.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Longevity
Winner: Hemp Bedding
Although hemp bedding often costs more initially, it typically lasts much longer.
Because hemp stays dry longer, it breaks down more slowly than pine shavings.
Benefits include:
- Fewer bedding changes
- Less waste
- Lower labor
- Reduced annual bedding costs
Many chicken keepers find they use considerably fewer bags throughout the year.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings for the Deep Litter Method
Winner: Hemp Bedding
If you use the Deep Litter Method, hemp bedding performs exceptionally well.
Its superior absorbency helps maintain ideal moisture levels while supporting beneficial microorganisms that naturally compost the litter.
Advantages include:
- Better moisture management
- Less odor
- Reduced cleaning
- Excellent compost production
Although pine shavings also work for deep litter systems, they usually require more frequent additions.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Compostability
Winner: Hemp Bedding
Both bedding materials compost successfully.
However, hemp bedding generally breaks down faster due to its smaller particle size and excellent moisture balance.
Used hemp bedding creates nutrient-rich compost that can improve:
- Vegetable gardens
- Flower beds
- Raised garden beds
- Landscaping
For homesteaders, this makes hemp bedding an environmentally friendly choice.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Sustainability
Winner: Hemp Bedding
Industrial hemp is one of the fastest-growing renewable crops in the world.
Compared with timber harvesting, hemp typically requires:
- Less water
- Fewer pesticides
- Annual harvesting
- Efficient land use
If sustainability matters to you, hemp bedding offers a more environmentally responsible option.
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Cost Comparison
Winner: Pine Shavings (Initial Cost)
Pine shavings generally have the lower purchase price.
However, the initial cost doesn’t tell the whole story.
When considering:
- Longer lifespan
- Fewer clean-outs
- Better odor control
- Less waste
- Lower labor
Many backyard chicken keepers find hemp bedding delivers better long-term value.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Hemp Bedding | Pine Shavings |
|---|---|---|
| Moisture Absorption | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Odor Control | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Dust Level | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Longevity | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Deep Litter Method | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Compostability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Sustainability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Initial Cost | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Overall Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Hemp Bedding vs Pine Shavings: Which Should You Choose?
Both hemp bedding and pine shavings can provide a comfortable environment for backyard chickens when managed properly.
However, if you’re looking for cleaner coops, better moisture control, reduced ammonia, lower dust, and less frequent bedding replacement, hemp bedding offers clear advantages.
While pine shavings remain an affordable option, many chicken keepers discover that hemp bedding saves both time and money over the long run because it lasts longer and performs better.
If you’re ready to upgrade your coop, My Favorite Chicken North American Hemp Chicken Coop Bedding is designed for chicken coops, nesting boxes, brooders, and small-animal enclosures. If you prefer a ready-to-use botanical blend, choose our herbal hemp bedding for chickens with organic herbs and flowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hemp bedding safe for chickens?
Yes. Industrial hemp bedding contains only trace amounts of THC and is completely safe for chickens, ducks, quail, rabbits, and other small animals.
Does hemp bedding reduce ammonia?
Yes. Because hemp bedding absorbs moisture efficiently, it helps reduce ammonia buildup and improves air quality inside the coop.
Can hemp bedding be used for baby chicks?
Absolutely. Hemp bedding’s low-dust properties make it an excellent choice for brooders, especially once chicks are old enough not to consume excessive bedding.
Is hemp bedding worth the higher price?
For many chicken keepers, yes. Although hemp bedding usually costs more upfront, its durability, absorbency, and longer service life often make it the better long-term value.
Learn More
For additional information about composting chicken manure and bedding, see Oregon State University Extension’s composting guidance.
For backyard poultry health and biosecurity recommendations, visit USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service: Livestock and Poultry Disease.
