30 DIY Nesting Boxes For Chickens [For Every Coop]

Raising chickens can be incredibly rewarding, but finding the perfect nesting boxes can be a challenge. 

Have you ever struggled with store-bought options that just don’t fit your flock’s needs? 

I’m here to share my journey of creating DIY nesting boxes that have transformed my chicken-keeping experience. 

Let’s dive in and solve this common problem together!

DIY Nesting Boxes For Chickens

Nesting boxes for chickens are essential to ensure hens lay eggs comfortably and securely. Each box should be about 12 inches in each dimension to accommodate the hen. 

Line the boxes with straw or shavings to provide a soft surface. Ideally, place the boxes in a quiet, darkened area of the coop, away from the hustle. 

This setup encourages hens to lay their eggs in a safe, familiar place, reducing the risk of broken or missing eggs. Regularly clean the boxes to maintain a healthy environment.

1. Simple Wooden Nesting Box

Starting with a simple wooden nesting box is an excellent choice for beginners. Gather any leftover wood or pick up some basic lumber from a hardware store. 

The design is straightforward: a rectangular box with an open front and a slanted roof to deter chickens from roosting on top. Ensure to sand down all edges to prevent splinters. 

Adding soft bedding like straw or hay will provide a cozy, inviting space for your chickens to lay their eggs. 

This project is cost-effective and allows you to customize the size to fit your coop and your flock’s needs.

2. Repurposed Plastic Bins

Transforming old plastic storage bins into nesting boxes is both economical and simple. Cut a small entrance hole in the side of each bin and fill it with soft bedding. 

You can either stack these bins or arrange them side by side within your coop. 

These bins are not only durable and long-lasting but also easy to clean, making them ideal for a busy flock. 

This repurposing project reduces waste and provides a comfortable nesting space for your hens without much effort or expense.

3. Bucket Nesting Boxes

Five-gallon buckets offer an ingenious and budget-friendly nesting solution. Mount these buckets on their side on a wall or place them on a shelf. 

Ensure the openings are large enough for your hens to enter comfortably. Fill each bucket with straw or shavings to create a snug nesting environment. 

The buckets are easy to remove, clean, and replace, providing a practical and durable option that can withstand the rigors of chicken life, all while keeping maintenance tasks minimal.

4. Pallet Wood Nesting Boxes

Utilizing pallet wood for nesting boxes is both eco-friendly and budget-conscious. 

Start by disassembling an old pallet and using the wood to construct your nesting boxes. 

This method not only recycles materials but also gives your chicken coop a rustic charm. Make sure the pallets are clean and free from harmful chemicals before use. 

The converted pallet wood provides a sturdy and inexpensive nesting solution, reflecting sustainability and creativity in your coop’s design.

5. Old Drawer Nesting Boxes

Repurpose old drawers into nesting boxes to breathe new life into them. Simply remove the drawers from an unused dresser and place them in your coop. 

You may need to add a lip on the front to keep the bedding from spilling out. 

This project is a great way to recycle household items while offering your hens a cozy and secure place to lay their eggs. 

The drawers’ size and shape make them a perfect nesting solution, combining practicality with upcycled charm.

6. Milk Crate Nesting Boxes

Milk crates are an excellent choice for versatile and durable nesting boxes. Line the inside of each crate with a soft material, such as an old towel or straw, to increase comfort. 

These crates can be stacked to save space or placed individually around your coop. 

Their durability ensures they can withstand heavy use, and they are easy to clean, meeting the practical needs of any chicken keeper. 

This cost-effective solution also adds an interesting aesthetic to your coop.

7. Recycled Tire Nesting Boxes

Old tires can be uniquely transformed into nesting boxes. Lay the tire flat and fill it with straw or other bedding materials. Adding a wooden or metal bottom can help keep the bedding in place. 

This inventive idea not only provides a comfortable nesting spot for your hens but also promotes recycling and reduces waste. 

The robust nature of tires ensures they will last a long time, and this quirky solution can add an interesting touch to your coop’s setup.

8. Wooden Crate Nesting Boxes

Wooden crates typically used for shipping fruits or vegetables, can be repurposed into sturdy nesting boxes. 

To create one, place the crate on its side and add soft bedding inside. You can paint or stain the crates to align with your coop’s decor or leave them in their natural state for a rustic look. 

These crates are not only robust but also offer ample space for your hens to nest comfortably, providing a practical and charming addition to your chicken coop.

9. Cat Litter Box Nesting Boxes

Cat litter boxes are effortlessly converted into nesting boxes for chickens. Their ideal shape and size suit this purpose well. 

After thoroughly cleaning them, add some bedding to each box. The high sides of the litter box help keep the nesting material contained. 

This solution is both inexpensive and practical, as these boxes are readily available and designed to be easy to clean and maintain. 

Your hens will find these boxes to be a comfortable and secure spot for laying eggs.

10. Storage Tub Nesting Boxes

Large plastic storage tubs can be cleverly transformed into multiple nesting boxes. Cut several entrance holes along the side of the tub, making sure each hole is large enough for a chicken to enter comfortably. 

Fill the bottom with soft bedding, and place the tub in your coop. This setup allows multiple chickens to nest at the same time.

The durability and ease of cleaning these storage tubs make them a practical and efficient nesting solution for your flock.

11. Wine Barrel Nesting Boxes

Transform an old wine barrel into a unique and charming nesting box. Begin by cutting the barrel in half horizontally to create two open-ended sections. 

Fill each of these sections with cozy bedding material and place them in your coop. 

The natural curved shape of the barrel provides a snug and private space for your hens, making it an excellent nesting environment.

This project adds a touch of rustic charm and elegance to your coop, enhancing its overall aesthetic while providing functional nesting spaces.

12. Metal Basket Nesting Boxes

Repurpose metal baskets, typically used for storage or display, into practical nesting boxes. Line each basket with soft, comfortable material to create a welcoming environment for your hens. 

You have the flexibility to hang these baskets on the walls of your coop or place them on shelves. 

The open design of metal baskets ensures excellent ventilation, keeping the nesting area fresh. 

Moreover, they are easy to clean and move around as needed, making them both a functional and stylish choice for your chicken coop.

13. Cardboard Box Nesting Boxes

For a quick, temporary, and disposable nesting solution, cardboard boxes are an ideal choice. Cut an entrance hole in the side of each box and fill them with bedding material. 

Although not the most durable option, cardboard boxes can be easily replaced and recycled when they wear out. This makes them perfect for emergencies or short-term use. 

They are also incredibly cost-effective and can be customized to fit various spaces within your coop, providing a versatile nesting option.

14. PVC Pipe Nesting Boxes

Large PVC pipes can be creatively repurposed into sturdy and easy-to-clean nesting boxes. 

Cut the pipes into sections and position them horizontally within your coop, securing them in place with brackets or other support systems. 

Fill each section with bedding material to create a comfortable nesting area. This setup is highly durable, making it suitable for outdoor coops as well. 

However, PVC pipes are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a hygienic environment for your hens.

15. Plastic Drawer Nesting Boxes

Plastic storage drawers, commonly used for organizing, can be effortlessly converted into nesting boxes. 

Simply remove the drawers from their frame and place them in your coop, filled with bedding material. 

The plastic construction makes these nesting boxes easy to clean and disinfect, promoting a healthy environment for your hens. 

This option is not only practical but also ensures that your nesting boxes remain hygienic and low-maintenance, providing both comfort and cleanliness for your flock.

16. Old Chair Nesting Boxes

Repurpose old chairs into delightful and functional nesting boxes. Remove the seat of each chair and replace it with a wooden or metal box filled with bedding material. 

Arrange these modified chairs around your coop to provide your hens with cozy nesting spaces. 

This inventive idea adds a whimsical touch to your coop’s décor while recycling old furniture. 

It’s an excellent way to combine functionality with creativity, giving your hens unique and comfortable places to lay their eggs.

17. Terra Cotta Pot Nesting Boxes

Large terra cotta pots make for unique and stylish nesting boxes. Simply lay each pot on its side and fill it with bedding material. 

The heavy, durable nature of terra cotta ensures that the pots stay in place, while their rounded shape offers a cozy nesting environment. 

Easy to clean and resistant to outdoor elements, terra cotta pots are a practical choice for both indoor and outdoor coops. 

This idea combines simplicity with aesthetic appeal, providing your hens with an inviting nesting space.

18. Wooden Barrel Nesting Boxes

Repurpose wooden barrels into charming and effective nesting boxes. Cut each barrel into sections and fill them with bedding material. 

The natural curve of the barrel provides a private and comfortable area for your hens to lay their eggs. 

This project adds a rustic touch to your coop and repurposes old barrels that might otherwise be discarded. 

It offers a blend of functionality and nostalgic charm, enhancing both the practicality and aesthetics of your chicken coop.

19. Modular Shelf Nesting Boxes

A modular shelf system is a highly efficient way to create multiple nesting boxes at once. 

Position the shelves horizontally and use dividers to create individual nesting sections, which you then fill with bedding material. 

This setup is ideal for accommodating larger flocks as it can be easily customized in size and configuration to fit the space within your coop. 

Modular shelves offer a practical and scalable solution, providing numerous nesting spots in a well-organized manner.

20. Wicker Basket Nesting Boxes

Wicker baskets are both a charming and practical option for nesting boxes. Line the inside of each basket with a soft material to ensure comfort for your hens and place them in your coop. 

The natural ventilation provided by the wicker material helps to keep the nesting area dry and fresh. 

Wicker baskets add a rustic, homey touch to your coop, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. They are a versatile and attractive choice for your nesting needs.

21. Metal Tub Nesting Boxes

Transform large metal tubs, typically used for livestock feed, into sturdy nesting boxes. Simply lay the tub on its side and fill it with soft bedding material. 

The robust metal construction ensures durability and longevity, suitable for both ground placement and wall mounting within your coop. 

These metal tub nesting boxes are not only rugged but also easy to clean, providing a spacious and comfortable nesting environment for your hens. 

Adding these to your coop will enhance the homestead’s aesthetic while ensuring your poultry has a safe and dependable location for egg-laying.

22. File Cabinet Nesting Boxes

Upcycle old file cabinets into innovative nesting boxes. Start by removing the drawers and laying the cabinet on its side, creating multiple nesting compartments. 

Fill each section with bedding to welcome your hens. The file cabinet’s metal structure is remarkably durable and simple to clean. 

You can further customize these nesting spaces by adding dividers or doors for more privacy. 

This ingenious use of outdated furniture not only saves resources but also introduces a unique, functional design to your coop that supports your hens’ well-being.

23. Dog Kennel Nesting Boxes

Convert small dog kennels or crates into efficient nesting boxes. After a thorough cleaning, add a generous layer of bedding inside. 

The kennel’s enclosed space offers a private and secure area for hens to lay their eggs, which is crucial for their comfort and productivity. 

Easily integrate these kennels into your coop layout by placing them on the ground or stacking them to maximize space. 

These makeshift nesting boxes are mobile and easy to clean, making them a practical, adaptable addition to your poultry housing solutions.

24. Hanging Basket Nesting Boxes

Reimagine hanging baskets, typically used for plants, as creative nesting boxes. Line each basket with soft material and suspend them in your coop. 

This novel approach saves valuable floor space while providing a cozy, elevated nesting area for your hens.

Furthermore, these hanging baskets offer a decorative touch to your coop’s overall aesthetic. 

By combining functionality with creativity, these hanging baskets not only cater to your hens’ nesting needs but also transform the coop environment into an engaging and visually appealing space.

25. Laundry Basket Nesting Boxes

Repurpose old laundry baskets into practical nesting boxes. By lining the inside with a comfortable, soft material and placing the basket in your coop, you create an ideal nesting environment. 

The high sides of the laundry basket help contain the bedding, while the plastic material is durable and easy to clean. 

This method is both simple and cost-effective, providing your hens with a comfortable and spacious nesting area. 

Recycling everyday items like laundry baskets contributes to a sustainable and efficient poultry-keeping setup.

26. Bread Box Nesting Boxes

Give old bread boxes a new lease on life by turning them into cozy nesting boxes. Clean the bread box thoroughly and add bedding inside. 

Its compact size and enclosed design provide a snug and private spot for hens to lay their eggs. 

Incorporating old bread boxes into your coop adds vintage charm while offering functionality. 

These unique nesting boxes are easy to place within your coop and provide a delightful, secure nesting area, making them an excellent addition to your poultry housing arrangement.

27. Bookshelf Nesting Boxes

An old bookshelf can be repurposed into multiple nesting boxes with minimal effort. Lay the bookshelf on its side and insert dividers to create individual nesting compartments. 

Each section should be filled with soft bedding to ensure comfort. This solution is particularly beneficial for larger flocks, offering numerous nesting spaces within a single unit. 

Customizing the bookshelf to fit your coop’s dimensions makes it a practical and space-efficient option. 

This inventive reuse of furniture underscores a commitment to sustainability while enhancing your hens’ living conditions.

28. Toolbox Nesting Boxes

Breathe new life into old toolboxes by transforming them into distinct nesting boxes. After a thorough cleaning and removal of any sharp edges, fill the toolbox with bedding. 

These nesting spots not only provide a unique and cozy environment for your hens but also bring an industrial chic element to your coop’s design. Toolboxes are sturdy and easy to maintain, making them a practical choice. 

This creative reuse ensures your hens have safe, comfortable nesting spaces, while also contributing to an environmentally friendly approach in your homestead practices.

29. Old Suitcase Nesting Boxes

Add a touch of nostalgia to your coop by repurposing old suitcases as nesting boxes. 

Line the inside of the suitcase with a soft, comfortable material and position it within your coop. The enclosed nature of the suitcase offers a private, secure area, ideal for egg-laying. 

This quirky idea not only provides functional nesting spaces but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your coop with a vintage flair. 

Giving a new purpose to old luggage reflects both creativity and environmental consciousness in your poultry-keeping practices.

30. Garden Planter Nesting Boxes

Convert large garden planters into effective nesting boxes by laying them on their side and filling them with bedding. 

The sturdy construction of these planters ensures durability, whether placed on the ground or mounted to the walls of your coop. 

They provide a spacious and comfortable nesting area that is easy to access and clean. 

Using garden planters in this manner combines utility with an elegant design, adding a charming touch to your poultry setup while offering a practical and long-lasting nesting solution