Is Taking Care of Chickens Difficult? A Simple Guide from Family Backyard Store

At Family Backyard Store, we believe raising chickens can be one of the most fun and rewarding things you do in your backyard. But if you’re wondering, “Is it hard?” — you're not alone. A lot of folks are curious about how much work chickens take, how much they cost, and whether it’s really worth it.

We’re here to give you honest answers, straight from our flock to yours.

Is It Difficult to Raise Chickens?

Raising chickens isn’t hard, but it’s not totally hands-off either. Chickens are low-maintenance compared to some other animals, but they do need daily care. The great news is, once you get into a routine, chicken chores feel simple and even enjoyable.

Every day, your chickens will need:

• Fresh water and feed
• A quick check to make sure they’re healthy and acting normal
• Eggs collected from the nesting boxes

Every week or two, it’s a good idea to clean the coop — which is much easier with a well-designed structure like the ones we offer here at Family Backyard Store. With features like easy-access doors, pull out poop trays, epoxy floors, deep litter coatings, and removable roost bars, cleanup takes less time and effort. Chicken tending gets easier if you're using natural coop cleaners and herbs that help control odor and bugs. We recommend using gentle, pet-safe cleaners like white vinegar or essential-oil-based sprays. They’re safe for the flock and help keep the coop smelling fresh.

Thinking of Using Pine-Sol to Clean Your Coop?  Try Again!

It’s best not to use Pine-Sol when cleaning a chicken coop. Pine-Sol has strong chemicals that can be harmful to chickens. The smell and fumes can bother their lungs, and if any of it stays on the floor or walls, it might make them sick. Chickens have very sensitive breathing, so even a little leftover cleaner can cause problems. Instead, try using safer things like white vinegar, warm soapy water, or special cleaners made for chicken coops. Always rinse everything well and let it dry before putting the chickens back inside. Using gentle, safe cleaners helps keep your chickens healthy and happy.

Can Nesting Herbs Really Help?

Yes — nesting herbs are a small touch that makes a big difference! 

Many chicken owners sprinkle dried herbs like lavender, mint, basil, oregano, or calendula into the nesting boxes. These herbs help:

• Keep pests like mites and lice away
• Make the coop smell nicer
• Calm and relax the hens while they lay eggs

Herbs are a natural, affordable way to improve your chickens’ health and happiness. And who doesn't love the idea of hens laying eggs in a cozy, spa-like space? Check out the nesting herb collection from Pampered Chicken Mama.

How Much Time Does It Take?

Most chicken keepers spend about 15 minutes a day on basic care. That includes feeding, checking water, and collecting eggs. A deeper coop clean might take about an hour every week or two, depending on the size of your flock.

It’s a great daily routine to share with kids or enjoy as quiet time in the yard. Many of our customers say chicken care has become their favorite part of the day!

Are There Ways to Make Chicken Care Easier?

Absolutely! At Family Backyard Store, we offer coops and accessories designed to save time and make care simple. One of the most helpful upgrades? 

Water and feed silos from Coopworx.

Instead of filling water bowls every day, chicken waterers keep clean water full throughout the week. With less refilling and less mess, you save time and give your chickens better hydration.

Bonus: you can add a small amount of apple cider vinegar to the water for the chickens. It may help keep chickens healthy and keep the water cleaner. But don’t add too much, don’t use it every day, and never put it in a metal waterer. Always check with a vet if you're not sure if it’s safe for your flock.

Is It Cost-Effective?

Getting started does come with some costs. You’ll need a quality chicken coop (we’ve got plenty to choose from), feed, and a few supplies. But once you’re set up, chickens are one of the more affordable backyard animals to care for.

Here’s where the savings come in:

• Fresh eggs daily — no more buying at the store
• Chicken manure can be composted into powerful garden fertilizer
• Less food waste — chickens love leftovers!

Plus, many families enjoy selling extra eggs to neighbors, turning their hobby into a small side hustle.

What About Risks?

Like any animal, chickens do come with a few risks — but nothing you can’t handle with a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• They can get sick if their coop is dirty or overcrowded
• Predators like raccoons or hawks need to be kept out
• Weather changes mean keeping the flock cool in summer and warm in winter

At Family Backyard Store, our chicken coops are designed with predator protection, good ventilation, and easy-clean options. You can even add accessories like wheel kits, nesting herbs, and deep litter systems to save time and boost your chickens’ comfort.

Is It Worth the Work?

Ask almost any backyard chicken keeper, and they’ll tell you: yes! The rewards go beyond just eggs.

• Chickens bring life and energy to the backyard
• They help control bugs and weeds
• They teach responsibility to kids and adults
• They offer a real connection to where food comes from

And let’s be honest — watching chickens run around and bond with your kids is pretty fun.

Final Thoughts from Family Backyard Store

If you're looking for a backyard project that gives back every day, chickens might be just what you need. They’re not hard to care for, they don’t take up much time, and they bring fresh eggs and joy to your daily life. With the right setup — like the custom coops, automatic waterers, and all-natural nesting herbs we offer — you can raise chickens with confidence, even if you're just starting out.

Still have questions? We’re here to help. At Family Backyard Store, we don’t just sell coops — we support your whole chicken-keeping journey.

Ready to get started? Explore our backyard chicken coops, feeders and waterers, and natural care supplies today.