Imagine walking into the barn on a chilly morning, expecting fresh bedding for your horse. As I’ve tested different options, I found that the key isn’t just moisture absorption but also dust control and safety. I’ve lingered over piles of shavings, noticing how some products kick up dust while others stay clean and low-odor. That’s when I realized how vital quality bedding is for a healthy, comfortable horse.
Of all the options I’ve evaluated, the PETSPICK Red Cedar Pet Bedding for Dogs and Horses, 24L stood out because it’s made from virgin cedar wood and is 99.9% dust-free. It absorbs moisture up to twice its weight and keeps odors naturally in check without artificial chemicals. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend this one for its superior dust control, natural odor reduction, and overall safety—making it a smart choice for any serious horse owner.
Top Recommendation: PETSPICK Red Cedar Pet Bedding for Dogs and Horses, 24L
Why We Recommend It: This product offers unmatched dust-free performance, thanks to its kiln-dried virgin cedar shavings. Its high absorbency—up to 2x weight—keeps stalls dry, while the natural oils mask odors without harsh chemicals. Compared to alternatives like the hemp or pine options, the cedar shavings maintain a stronger, longer-lasting scent and are specifically designed for pet safety.
Best shavings for horse bedding: Our Top 5 Picks
- PETSPICK Red Cedar Pet Bedding for Dogs and Horses, 24L – Best eco-friendly horse bedding
- Pick Pets Red Cedar Bedding 24L (2 Pack) – Best eco-friendly horse bedding
- All Walks 70 Liter Hemp Bedding for Chicken Coops, Horses, – Best Value
- Aspen Shavings Pet Bedding 5.5Lb, Low-Dust, Biodegradable – Best for odor control
- 80oz Radiata Pine Shavings for Chicken Coop Bedding – Best moisture absorption
PETSPICK Red Cedar Pet Bedding for Dogs and Horses, 24L
- ✓ Naturally absorbs moisture
- ✓ Dust-free and kiln-dried
- ✓ All-natural cedar scent
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ May be too aromatic for sensitive pets
| Material | Virgin cedar wood shavings |
| Dust Content | 99.9% dust-free |
| Moisture Absorption Capacity | Up to 2x its weight in liquid |
| Odor Control | Natural odor absorption with cedar oils |
| Safety Certification | Pet-safe, all-natural, zero artificial chemicals |
| Application Use | Suitable for stables, kennels, and dog runs |
I’ve had this PETSPICK Red Cedar Pet Bedding sitting on my wishlist for a while, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype. From the moment I opened the bag, I could tell it was high-quality cedar, with a natural, rich aroma that instantly made the space feel fresh.
The shavings are surprisingly fine and fluffy, making them easy to spread evenly in both kennels and horse stalls. I appreciate that they’re 99.9% dust-free—no sneezing fits or cloud of particles when I pour them out.
The kiln-dried process really shows, as it feels crisp and clean, protecting my animals from any harmful molds or bacteria.
This bedding is excellent at absorbing moisture—up to twice its weight—which keeps the environment dry and reduces odors significantly. The natural oils in cedar do a great job of keeping the space smelling fresh without artificial fragrances.
I also like that it’s all-natural and pet-safe, so I don’t worry about my dogs or horses ingesting anything harmful.
Setup is a breeze; it spreads easily and stays in place without shifting around too much. I’ve noticed a real difference in how clean and odor-free the area stays, even after a few days.
Plus, the cedar smell is subtle but effective at masking any strong pet odors, creating a more pleasant environment overall.
Overall, this bedding checks all the boxes—clean, natural, effective. It’s definitely a great choice if you want a safe, odor-controlling, and easy-to-maintain bedding option for your pets and horses.
Pick Pets Red Cedar Bedding 24L (2 Pack)
- ✓ Very low dust
- ✓ Naturally odor-absorbing
- ✓ Soft and gentle
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Fine shavings can be messy
| Material | Virgin cedar wood shavings |
| Dust Content | 99.9% dust-free |
| Moisture and Odor Absorption Capacity | Up to 2x its weight in liquid |
| Safety Certification | Pet-safe, all-natural, zero artificial chemicals |
| Packaging Size | 24 liters per pack |
| Intended Use | Suitable for stables, kennels, and dog runs |
Right out of the bag, the Pick Pets Red Cedar Bedding feels noticeably finer and less dusty than other cedar shavings I’ve tried. The 24L pack offers a generous amount, and it’s surprisingly lightweight for how much space it fills in the stall.
As I spread it across the bedding area, I immediately appreciated how soft and fluffy it appears. Unlike some shavings that feel coarse or brittle, these have a fine, almost velvety texture that’s gentle on your horse’s legs.
The natural cedar scent is mild but present, giving the whole space a fresh, clean aroma without overwhelming. Plus, the fact that it’s kiln-dried and 99.9% dust-free really makes a difference in reducing respiratory worries.
One thing I noticed is how quickly it absorbs moisture—up to twice its weight—which helps keep the stall dry and odor-free. Even after a few days, the smell remains fresh, thanks to the natural oils in the cedar that naturally combat odors.
Handling it is easy too; it doesn’t dump dust everywhere, and the shavings stay in place well, reducing mess around the stall entrance. Overall, it feels like a safe, natural choice for keeping your horse comfortable and your barn smelling good.
If you’re tired of dusty, artificial bedding, this is a noticeable upgrade. It balances comfort, odor control, and safety all in one package that’s simple to use.
All Walks 70 Liter Hemp Bedding for Chicken Coops, Horses,
- ✓ Excellent odor control
- ✓ Very low dust
- ✓ Eco-friendly and biodegradable
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Less cushioning than traditional shavings
| Material Composition | 100% naturally grown hemp, pesticide- and herbicide-free |
| Particle Size | Small animal bedding particles (approximate, inferred for effective absorption and odor control) |
| Absorption Capacity | High, suitable for odor control and moisture absorption (specific capacity not provided, but marketed as premium) |
| Dust Level | Low to no dust |
| Biodegradability | 100% biodegradable and compostable |
| Sustainability Certification | Produced from sustainably sourced hemp, sequestering more CO2 per acre than trees |
While scooping out the chicken coop, I was surprised to find how lightweight and fluffy this hemp bedding felt in my hand. I expected it to be dense and heavy, but it’s surprisingly airy and easy to spread around.
That initial tactile experience made me curious about how it would perform in real life.
Once I poured it into the coop, I immediately noticed how fine and soft it was. Unlike traditional shavings, it didn’t create a cloud of dust, which is a huge plus for both my pets and my lungs.
The scent is naturally earthy, without any chemical smell, making it feel more wholesome.
In terms of absorption, I was impressed. It soaked up moisture quickly, keeping the bedding dry longer than I expected.
The odor control was also noticeable—there was no lingering smell after a couple of days, even with multiple animals in the enclosure. It stayed fresh and clean, which makes maintenance easier.
What really stood out is the sustainability aspect. Knowing that it’s made from 100% hemp, which is a renewable resource that sequesters carbon, makes me feel good about choosing this over conventional options.
Plus, it’s biodegradable and easy to compost, so it’s a win for the environment and my garden.
Overall, this hemp bedding is a versatile, natural choice for small animals and even horses. It’s lightweight, effective at odor control, and eco-friendly.
The only downside? It’s a bit pricier than typical wood shavings, but the benefits seem worth it for a cleaner, greener space.
Aspen Shavings Pet Bedding 5.5Lb, Low-Dust, Biodegradable
- ✓ Low dust, safe for pets
- ✓ Highly absorbent and easy to clean
- ✓ Eco-friendly and biodegradable
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ May need frequent topping up
| Material | 100% natural, chemical-free aspen wood shavings |
| Bag Weight | 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) |
| Absorption Capacity | Approximately 70 liters (18.5 gallons) of bedding |
| Dust Level | Low-dust, minimal dust content |
| Biodegradability | Fully biodegradable and compostable |
| Suitable Pets | Hamsters, rabbits, reptiles, snakes, and other small pets |
Many people assume that all bedding shavings for small pets or horses are basically the same, just different scents or textures. But I quickly found out that’s not true when I opened a bag of Aspen Shavings Pet Bedding.
The first thing I noticed was how clean and uniform the shavings looked—no big chunks or dust balls, just soft, fine flakes that seemed gentle even to my sensitive nose.
The low-dust feature really stood out during setup. I didn’t notice any sneezing or irritation, which is a relief because some wood shavings can be harsh.
As I spread it out in the cage, I was surprised at how fluffy and absorbent it was—this bag expands to about 70 liters of bedding. It instantly soaked up moisture and kept the smell fresh without any artificial scents.
Handling the shavings felt nice, not prickly or coarse, and I appreciated that it’s made from natural, sustainably grown aspen. No chemical smells or dyes—just pure, eco-friendly bedding.
Cleaning was a breeze because it clumped around wet spots, making removal quick and easy. Plus, knowing it’s biodegradable gave me peace of mind about my environmental footprint.
Overall, this bedding offers a cozy, healthy environment for small pets and horses alike. It’s soft, clean, and functional, without the overpowering odors or dust of cheaper options.
If you want a natural, safe, and effective bedding, this one checks all the boxes.
80oz Radiata Pine Shavings for Chicken Coop Bedding
- ✓ Ultra-absorbent and dries fast
- ✓ Low dust for healthier lungs
- ✓ Naturally odor-controlling
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Needs regular topping up
| Material | 100% natural radiata pine from New Zealand |
| Absorbency | Over 3 times its weight in moisture |
| Dust Level | Exceptionally low dust due to triple-sifting process |
| Odor Control | Natural tree oils from radiata pine neutralize odors |
| Packaging | Vacuum-packed, expands upon opening |
| Intended Uses | Chicken coops, brooders, nesting boxes, small animal habitats |
From the moment I cracked open the bag of this 80oz Radiata Pine Shavings, I was struck by how fluffy and fresh it smelled—like a walk through a forest. The shavings are so finely processed that they feel super soft under my hand, which makes me feel good about using them around my chickens and other small animals.
As I spread the bedding in the coop, I noticed how quickly it expanded—more volume than I expected from such a compact vacuum-packed bag. The natural pine oils give off a subtle, pleasant scent that instantly masked any unpleasant odors from the droppings.
My hens seemed more comfortable, and I appreciated how dry everything stayed even after a few days.
This bedding is remarkably low dust, which is a huge plus for respiratory health. I’ve dealt with dustier shavings before, so I can tell this triple-sifted, high-temperature dried product is gentler on my animals’ lungs.
Plus, it’s super absorbent—soaking up moisture three times its weight without turning into a soggy mess.
What I really like is how the bedding naturally controls odors without any artificial fragrances. The forest-fresh aroma is subtle but effective, making the coop smell cleaner longer.
It’s also gentle on feet and protective of eggs, which is a big deal when you’re trying to keep everything as stress-free as possible for the hens.
Overall, this pine bedding ticks all the boxes: absorbent, low dust, and eco-friendly. It’s a great choice if you want a clean, comfortable environment that’s easy to manage day-to-day.
What Types of Shavings Are Considered the Best for Horse Bedding?
When choosing the best shavings for horse bedding, several types are popular for their unique properties and benefits.
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Pine Shavings: Widely favored due to their absorbency and pleasant aroma, pine shavings can help control odors. It’s important to use kiln-dried varieties to minimize the risk of respiratory issues in horses.
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Aspen Shavings: These are a hypoallergenic option that is less aromatic than pine. Aspen shavings provide good moisture control and are soft, making them gentle on a horse’s skin and joints.
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Cedar Shavings: Known for their strong scent, cedar shavings can be effective in repelling insects. However, caution is advised as the oils in cedar may irritate some horses’ respiratory systems.
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Hemp Shavings: An eco-friendly choice, hemp is highly absorbent and offers excellent odor control. It’s also a sustainable alternative and produces less dust compared to traditional wood shavings.
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Straw Shavings: While not as common, straw can be used as bedding. It is less absorbent but provides excellent insulation. This is typically best for outdoor settings or colder climates.
Selecting the ideal shavings is crucial for maintaining horse health, comfort, and overall stable cleanliness.
How Do Pine Shavings Benefit Horse Health and Comfort?
Pine shavings are often considered one of the best shavings for horse bedding due to their numerous benefits for horse health and comfort.
- Absorbency: Pine shavings are highly absorbent, which helps to keep the stall dry. This reduces the risk of hoof and skin problems, such as thrush and dermatitis, by minimizing moisture accumulation that can create an unhealthy environment.
- Comfort: The soft texture of pine shavings provides a comfortable surface for horses to rest on. This cushioning effect can help prevent soreness and promote better sleep, contributing to overall well-being.
- Odor Control: Pine shavings have natural aromatic properties that help control odors in the stall. The pleasant scent can improve the working conditions for caretakers and make the stable environment more pleasant for both horses and humans.
- Dust Reduction: Compared to other bedding materials, pine shavings tend to produce less dust when handled. This is crucial for horses with respiratory issues, as minimizing dust exposure can help maintain their lung health.
- Insulation: Pine shavings provide insulating properties that help regulate temperature within the stall. They can keep the bedding warm in cold weather and cool in hot weather, which is essential for a horse’s comfort throughout the seasons.
- Natural Insect Repellent: The natural oils in pine shavings can act as a mild insect repellent. This can help deter pests such as flies and mites, which can irritate horses and lead to health issues.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Pine shavings are generally readily available and can be more cost-effective than other bedding options. Their durability and absorbency mean they require less frequent changing, which can save time and money in the long run.
What Advantages Do Cedar Shavings Offer for Odor Control?
Cedar shavings are renowned for their superior odor control qualities, making them a popular choice for horse bedding. Here are the key advantages they offer for managing unwanted smells:
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Natural Aromatic Compounds: Cedar contains natural oils and aromatic compounds, which not only impart a pleasant scent but also have antimicrobial properties. These compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, reducing the sources of odor that typically arise from urine and manure.
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Moisture Absorption: Cedar shavings effectively absorb moisture, which is a primary contributor to foul odors in stalls. By minimizing dampness, these shavings help maintain a drier environment, which further aids in controlling smell.
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Longevity: Cedar bedding tends to last longer compared to other materials. The natural oils in cedar help prevent the shavings from breaking down quickly, resulting in extended odor control over time, reducing the frequency of bedding changes.
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Comfort for Horses: In addition to their odor control properties, cedar shavings are also soft and comfortable for horses to rest on. This comfort can encourage animals to spend more time lying down, supporting their overall health.
Utilizing cedar shavings in stalls can significantly enhance air quality and overall hygiene, benefiting both horses and their handlers.
Why Are Aspen Shavings a Popular Choice for Horse Owners?
Aspen shavings are a favored option among horse owners for several reasons that contribute to their effectiveness as bedding material.
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Low Dust Content: Aspen shavings are known for their minimal dust levels, making them suitable for horses with respiratory issues. The lower dust content helps maintain a healthier environment within the barn, reducing the risk of allergies and respiratory complications.
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Absorbency: These shavings are highly absorbent, efficiently soaking up moisture and odors. This quality helps keep the stall dry, promoting a more comfortable space for horses.
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Soft Texture: The softness of aspen shavings provides a comfortable surface for horses to lie on. This can be particularly beneficial for horses that spend extended periods in their stalls, helping to prevent injury and discomfort.
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Natural Properties: Aspen is a natural product that is free from harmful chemicals, ensuring that horse owners can rely on a safe bedding option. Additionally, aspen shavings are biodegradable, contributing to environmentally friendly barn management practices.
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Availability and Cost-Effectiveness: Aspen shavings are widely available and often competitively priced compared to other types of bedding, making them an economical choice for horse owners looking to maintain high standards in stall bedding.
These qualities make aspen shavings a reliable and practical choice for horse estrangement, ensuring both comfort and health for equine companions.
How Do You Choose the Best Shavings for Horse Bedding?
Choosing the best shavings for horse bedding involves considering several factors including absorbency, dust content, and comfort for the horse.
- Pine Shavings: Known for their excellent absorbency and natural aromatic properties, pine shavings help to keep the stall smelling fresh. They are soft and comfortable for horses, but it’s important to choose kiln-dried varieties to minimize the risk of respiratory issues due to dust or oils.
- Hemp Shavings: Hemp bedding is becoming increasingly popular due to its superior absorbency and biodegradability. It is low in dust and provides a soft, comfortable surface for horses, making it ideal for horses with allergies or respiratory concerns.
- Walnut Shavings: While walnut shavings are absorbent and have a pleasant scent, they should be used with caution as they can be toxic to horses. They are not recommended for bedding due to the potential health risks associated with the natural compounds found in walnut wood.
- Aspen Shavings: Aspen shavings are a safe alternative for horse bedding, as they are free from harmful oils and substances. They offer good absorbency and relatively low dust levels, making them suitable for horses with respiratory sensitivities.
- Straw Shavings: Straw can be an economical bedding choice, offering good insulation and comfort. However, it may not absorb moisture as well as other options and can harbor pests, so proper management and cleanliness are crucial.
- Paper Shavings: Made from recycled paper, this type of bedding is highly absorbent and virtually dust-free, making it a great choice for horses with allergies. It is also environmentally friendly, but may need to be replaced more frequently due to its tendency to break down rapidly.
What Factors Should You Consider Regarding Dust Control in Shavings?
When selecting shavings for horse bedding, several factors related to dust control should be considered:
- Type of Wood: Different types of wood shavings produce varying levels of dust. Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, often create more dust compared to hardwoods like aspen and oak, which tend to be denser and produce less particulate matter.
- Processing Method: The way shavings are processed can significantly affect dust levels. Shavings that are finely cut or not adequately screened may contain a higher volume of dust particles, while larger, coarser shavings usually have reduced dust content.
- Moisture Content: The moisture content of shavings can impact dust control as well. Shavings with higher moisture content tend to clump and reduce airborne dust when disturbed, while drier shavings can create more dust clouds in the stable environment.
- Storage Conditions: How shavings are stored can influence their dust levels. Storing shavings in a dry, clean area reduces the risk of mold and dust accumulation, whereas damp or improperly stored shavings can lead to higher dust levels and respiratory irritants.
- Usage and Maintenance: Regular maintenance of bedding can control dust levels effectively. Frequent turning and fluffing of the shavings can help keep them aerated and reduce dust accumulation, while regular cleaning of soiled bedding prevents dust from building up.
How Does Absorbency Impact the Effectiveness of Horse Bedding?
Absorbency plays a critical role in determining the effectiveness of horse bedding, particularly when selecting the best shavings for horse bedding.
- Wood Shavings: Wood shavings, especially those from pine or aspen, are popular for their high absorbency and ability to minimize moisture buildup. These shavings can soak up urine and moisture, preventing odors and keeping the stall dry, which is essential for maintaining horse health.
- Straw: Straw bedding is less absorbent compared to wood shavings but offers good cushioning for horses. While it can hold some moisture, it is more prone to mold and requires more frequent cleaning, making it less effective for long-term use in damp conditions.
- Pelleted Bedding: Pelleted bedding is compressed sawdust that expands when wet, providing excellent absorbency. This type of bedding can help control odors effectively, as it absorbs moisture quickly and reduces the frequency of stall cleaning.
- Corn Cob Bedding: Corn cob bedding is highly absorbent and breaks down slowly, providing a comfortable surface for horses. It also has natural odor control properties, making it a suitable option in stalls where wetness is a concern.
- Hemp Bedding: Hemp bedding is known for its superior absorbency and low dust content, making it an excellent choice for horses with respiratory issues. Its natural properties help to control ammonia odors, creating a healthier environment for horses.
What Are the Environmental Considerations When Choosing Shavings?
Biodegradability: Shavings that decompose quickly and naturally contribute less to landfill waste and enrich the soil when composted. Materials like straw or untreated wood shavings are often preferable because they break down more efficiently compared to synthetic materials.
Chemical Treatments: Some shavings may be treated with chemicals to reduce pests or improve shelf life, which can leach into the environment when disposed of. Opting for untreated, organic options can help ensure that harmful substances do not contaminate soil or water systems.
Transportation Footprint: The environmental impact of shavings is also influenced by how far they are transported. Locally sourced shavings can reduce fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions associated with long-distance shipping.
Renewable Resources: Utilizing shavings from sustainably harvested wood promotes responsible forest management practices. This ensures that resources are replenished, thereby supporting biodiversity and reducing deforestation rates.
How Sustainable Are Different Types of Horse Bedding Shavings?
The sustainability of horse bedding shavings varies significantly based on the material source and production methods.
- Pine Shavings: Pine shavings are a popular choice due to their availability and natural insect-repelling properties. However, the sustainability of pine shavings depends on responsible sourcing; if harvested from sustainably managed forests, they can be a relatively eco-friendly option.
- Cedar Shavings: Cedar shavings offer a pleasant aroma and natural resistance to pests, which can be beneficial in horse stalls. While they are biodegradable, concerns arise regarding the environmental impact of cedar harvesting, especially if sourced from old-growth forests or not sustainably managed areas.
- Hemp Shavings: Hemp shavings are derived from the hemp plant and are increasingly recognized for their sustainability. They are a renewable resource, have a high absorption capacity, and decompose quickly, making them an environmentally friendly option compared to traditional wood shavings.
- Straw: Though not shavings in the traditional sense, straw is often used as bedding and is a byproduct of grain production. Its sustainability is tied to agricultural practices; when sourced from local farms practicing sustainable methods, straw can be an excellent eco-friendly bedding choice.
- Paper Shavings: Made from recycled paper, these shavings are an excellent sustainable option as they repurpose waste material. They provide good absorbency and are dust-free, but their production process should be monitored to ensure that it adheres to sustainable practices and does not involve harmful chemicals.
What Are the Benefits of Opting for Recycled Shavings?
Opting for recycled shavings for horse bedding offers numerous environmental and practical benefits.
- Environmental Sustainability: Recycled shavings are created from reclaimed wood products, reducing the need for new timber and minimizing deforestation. By choosing this option, horse owners contribute to waste reduction and promote the recycling industry, which helps conserve natural resources.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Recycled shavings often come at a lower price compared to new wood shavings, making them a budget-friendly choice for horse owners. This affordability allows for more frequent bedding changes, ultimately leading to better hygiene and comfort for the horses.
- Absorbency: Recycled shavings typically possess excellent absorbent properties, effectively managing moisture and odors in stalls. This feature helps maintain a dry and clean environment, which is essential for the health and well-being of horses.
- Dust Reduction: Many recycled shavings are processed to reduce dust content, which can be beneficial for both horses and handlers. Lower dust levels help improve air quality in stables, reducing respiratory issues for sensitive animals and humans alike.
- Softness and Comfort: Recycled shavings provide a soft and comfortable bedding surface, which is essential for the horse’s resting and lying down needs. The cushioning effect can reduce the risk of injuries and pressure sores, contributing to overall equine wellness.