🐣 New Chick Supplies Checklist: Everything You Need for Happy, Healthy Chicks

Bringing home new chicks? Here’s your complete checklist to make sure they stay warm, hydrated, and thriving from day one. Whether you’re a first-time keeper or just expanding your flock, this guide walks you through every essential supply and setup step.

✅ The Basics

Start with the essentials to give your chicks a safe, comfortable start.

• Waterer – Keep it clean, shallow, and easy to refill.
• Feeder – Prevents spilled or contaminated feed.
• Thermometer – Tracks brooder temperature accurately.
• Brooder & Lamp – Provides warmth and security for the first few weeks.
• Smart Coop – Upgrade-ready for when they move outdoors.
• Compostable Litter Trays – Simple to replace and planet-friendly.
• Starter or Grower Feed – Formulated for balanced early nutrition.
• Chick Grit & Probiotics – Supports digestion and gut health.
• Electrolytes – Keeps chicks hydrated, especially after transport.

🚚 Delivery & Pick-Up Tips

Handle chicks gently and protect them from sudden temperature changes during travel.

• Keep them secure in the shipping box until you’re home and set up.
• Avoid sharp turns and sudden stops.
• Maintain a warm vehicle temperature — chicks like it toasty.

For online orders:

• Chicks ship Monday–Wednesday via USPS.
• Pick up within 24 hours of delivery notification.

🏡 Setting Up Your Brooder at Home

Your chicks’ first home — the brooder — should be draft-free, secure, and easy to clean.

• Choose a sturdy structure away from pets and direct drafts.
• Cover with mesh or a screen — chicks start flapping early!
• Avoid cardboard or plastic bins that trap moisture and heat.

🌿 Bedding Basics

Clean, comfortable bedding helps prevent odor, bacteria, and leg injuries.

• Use 2–3 inches of pine shavings or Coop Compostable Litter Trays.
• Replace bedding daily to maintain a dry environment.
• Start with paper towels for the first few days to help chicks find traction and locate feed.

🔥 Keeping Chicks Warm

Proper warmth is critical for growth and survival. Monitor their comfort closely.

• Start at 95°F and reduce by 5°F each week.
• Use a reliable brooder lamp or plate positioned safely above the chicks.
• Watch their behavior for cues:
  • Huddled together = too cold.
  • Spread out or panting = too hot.
  • Evenly spaced and peeping = just right.

🥣 Feeding & Hydration

Healthy chicks need constant access to clean water and balanced starter feed.

• Use separate containers for feed and water.
• Refresh water daily and keep feed dry.
• Watch for overeating or dehydration — early habits matter.

🎉 Enrichment & Gentle Care Tips

Social, confident chicks grow into healthier hens. Add small touches of comfort and fun.

• Add a small perch or roost for early balance practice.
• Provide a shallow dust bath tray for natural grooming.
• Handle chicks calmly and consistently to build trust.
• Supervise short outdoor time once temperatures are safe.

✨ Final Thoughts

Raising baby chicks is one of the most rewarding parts of keeping backyard chickens. With a safe setup, daily attention, and a little patience, you’ll have a thriving flock — and plenty of adorable memories — in no time.

Ready to upgrade their future home? Explore the Smart Coop — built for comfort, safety, and smarter chicken keeping.