Introduction
Chickens and ducks don’t need expensive nesting boxes to lay comfortably. In fact, some of the best, coziest, and most effective nesting boxes come from recycled or inexpensive materials you probably already have around your homestead.
Whether you’re outfitting a new coop or upgrading your current setup, this roundup shares 8 farm-tested DIY nesting box ideas—from 5-gallon buckets to milk crates, kitty litter bins, and even pallet wood builds.
Each tutorial includes a summary and why the idea works so well, so you can pick the perfect nesting box project for your flock.
What Makes a Good Nesting Box?
Before jumping into the builds, here are the basics your nesting boxes should include:
- Privacy: Chickens and ducks lay best when they feel safe and hidden.
- Easy to clean: Smooth surfaces or removable liners help keep your boxes sanitary.
- Ventilation: Especially important for ducks.
- Weather protection: Keep the interior dry.
- Easy access: Birds should be able to hop in without difficulty.
- Appropriate size: Ducks need larger boxes than chickens.
1. Dreaming of Homemaking – Extra-Large DIY Nesting Box
Summary: This tutorial shows a beautiful, sturdy, extra-large nesting box using basic lumber and simple cuts. The larger size makes it ideal for heavy layers or flocks that like to share boxes.
Why It’s Great: Spacious, durable, easy to clean, and looks amazing in any coop.
Read Full Tutorial Here
2. Meyer Hatchery – 5-Gallon Bucket Nesting Boxes
Summary: One of the easiest and most popular DIY nesting box ideas. This method uses 5-gallon buckets laid on their sides, partially filled with bedding.
Why It’s Great: Cheap, easy, and nearly indestructible. Perfect for new chicken owners.
Full Post Here
3. Ohio Thoughts Blog – Nesting Boxes from Milk Crates
Summary: A clever build that uses inexpensive plastic milk crates secured to the wall. They’re roomy, breathable, and easy to sanitize.
Why It’s Great: Lightweight, duck-friendly, and perfect for flocks that prefer open-front boxes.
Read Full Tutorial Here
4. Only Goats Farm – DIY Nesting Boxes from Kitty Litter Containers
Summary: Using recycled kitty litter containers makes surprisingly perfect nesting boxes. They’re enclosed, easy to clean, and strong enough to last through many seasons.
Why It’s Great: Budget-friendly, enclosed design helps hens feel safe, and great for tight coop spaces.
5. Pallet Wood Nesting Box (Soson Farm)
Summary: A simple multi-box design using pallet boards and scrap lumber. Can be stacked or mounted on a wall.
Why It’s Great: Almost free, customizable, and rustic.
Watch here
6. Plastic Storage Tote Nesting Boxes
Summary: Large storage totes offer a cozy, enclosed nesting space—great for ducks who love privacy.
Why It’s Great: Waterproof, easy to clean, and perfect for winter.
See at The Owner Builder Network
7. Wooden Shelf-Style Nesting Boxes (Ready Set Homestead)
Summary: A simple open-front wooden shelf with dividers acts as a classic nesting box setup for large coops.
Why It’s Great: Great for flocks with many hens; easy to build in a single afternoon.
Watch it here
8. Repurposed Drawers or Furniture (Bock Bock Bouquet)
Summary: Old dresser drawers or shelving units can become instant nesting boxes. He found them on the side of the road!
Why It’s Great: Creative, sustainable, and requires almost no building.
Watch it here
Tips for Success
- Keep nesting material deep—chickens love to kick it around.
- Place boxes off the ground to discourage predators.
- Avoid placing boxes directly under roosts.
- Add herbs like lavender or mint to deter pests.
- Offer more boxes than hens to reduce bullying.
Tools & Supplies List
- Power drill
- Screws or brackets
- 5-gallon buckets or crates
- Kitty litter containers
- Scrap lumber or pallet boards
- Straw, nesting pads, or wood shavings
Closing Thoughts
You don’t need to spend a lot to create safe, clean, and comfortable nesting boxes for your hens or ducks. From buckets to crates to repurposed household items, these easy DIY builds will keep your flock happy and your coop running smoothly.
Next: Check out this post with different ideas for goat playground builds (with pallets!)
Or watch this video, where I show you some of my free upcycled farm projects:
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