Step-By-Step How to Use Wood Pellet Horse Bedding

Transform your horse’s stable with wood pellet horse bedding! This step-by-step guide shows you how to easily switch to this eco-friendly and absorbent option. Learn how to prepare your stall, activate the pellets, and maintain a clean and comfortable environment for your horse. Discover the benefits of wood pellets and enjoy a happier, healthier stable.

Let’s delve into the how-tos of using this increasingly popular horse bedding option.

Why Wood Pellets? A Quick Recap

Before diving into the ‘how’, let’s revisit the ‘why’. Wood pellets are a sustainable choice, made from compressed sawdust or recycled wood. Their high absorbency, odour control, and dust-free nature translate to a drier, more comfortable stable. This leads to less frequent cleaning, and happier horses – especially those prone to respiratory issues.

Step 1: Preparation is Key

Clear the Stall: Remove any existing bedding and ensure the floor is clean and dry.
How Much You Will Need: A 12ft x 12ft stable will require approximately 6-10 bags of bedding. Add a further two bags if you require banks.

Step 2: Activate the Pellets

Bagged Wood Pellet Horse Bedding:
Add Water: This is where the magic happens! Carefully cut open all the bags and fold back the plastic. To activate the pellets, each bag will require 5-7 litres of water – approximately half a standard bucket. Slowly pour the water into the bag and leave the pellets to swell. The pellets will start to expand and break down, creating a soft, fluffy bed.
Bulk Wood Pellet Horse Bedding:
Weigh It Out: If you have received the pellet in bulk, fill a wheelbarrow half full (approx. 30kg).
Add Water: This will take 10-14 litres of water (approx. one full bucket) After 15-20 minutes, the pellets will have absorbed all the water, expanding to approximately three times their original size.

After this, for both types of bedding – the rest of the process follows the same steps:

Lay Down the Base: Spread a layer of pellets across the entire stall floor. The initial depth will depend on your horse’s size and preferences, but generally, start with a 3-4 inch layer.
Unbroken Pellets: Most of the pellets will have transformed into a soft and compact bed. There should be some pellets that have not broken down so don’t worry about it if you see this.
Even it Out: Use a fork or rake to spread them evenly across the stall.

Step 3: Daily Maintenance

Remove Wet Spots Daily: Use a shavings fork or shovel to remove any wet or soiled areas. Wood pellets clump together when wet, making them easy to spot and remove.
Less Waste & Mucking Out: SDL Pellets’ Premium Animal Bedding separates from manure so less bedding is wasted, and you will notice that your muck heap will be greatly reduced.
Top Up as Needed: Add a thin layer of fresh pellets to replace what you’ve removed. You won’t need to do a full bedding change as often as with traditional bedding. One – two bags of our pellet per week will be a sufficient quantity to replenish lost bedding. Activate the bag(s) in the usual way or in a wheelbarrow. If your animal is particularly wet, you can always add new pellets to the bed.

Horse in a stable, enjoying our equestrian wood pellets used for its bedding.

Pro Tips for Wood Pellet Horse Bedding and a Happy Horse

Start Slow: If your horse is new to wood pellets, introduce them gradually. Mix a small amount with their existing bedding and increase the ratio over time.
Don’t Overwater: Too much water can lead to a soggy mess, so add the ratio mentioned above and give it some time to absorb.
Monitor for Dust: While wood pellets are generally dust-free, ensure the brand you choose is of high quality to avoid any potential respiratory irritants. Higher dust can come from lots of handling, as we manage the whole process from production to delivery, our handling is minimal.
Deep Litter Method: Some horse owners prefer the ‘deep litter method’ where you only remove the very top layer of soiled bedding and add fresh pellets on top. This creates a compost-like layer at the bottom which can help with odour control. If you choose this method, ensure good ventilation in the stable.

Switching to wood pellets is a simple change that can make a big difference in your horse’s comfort and your stable management routine. Give it a try and see the benefits for yourself!

Or, if you’re considering the switch, contact us to ask any questions you have and our team will be happy to help.