Happy February from Lange Girl Farms! As winter holds on in Southeast Michigan, our rabbits are spending more time indoors in their hutches, so a mid-season refresh is key to keeping them comfortable and healthy. We’ve been tweaking our natural bedding routine with farm-sourced materials—no chemicals, just simple, effective methods that work for our homestead setup. Today, I’ll share our winter rabbit hutch refresh process, favorite natural bedding options, pest prevention tips, and why it fits our low-maintenance farm life. For any dry hands from handling bedding, our Bumps & Bruises Salve is a quick natural fix!
Why a Winter Hutch Refresh?
Rabbits are sensitive to dampness and odors in cold weather.
- Prevents moisture buildup and respiratory issues.
- Reduces pests like mites.
- Keeps bunnies cozy and active.
- Preps for spring breeding or kindling.
Our rabbits thrive with this routine—happy, healthy, and productive.
Step-by-Step Winter Hutch Refresh
Here’s our straightforward process:
- Move Rabbits Temporarily
- Place in a safe, warm holding area (we use portable pens).
- Place in a safe, warm holding area (we use portable pens).
- Empty the Hutch
- Remove all old bedding and droppings.
- Compost the material (rabbit manure is garden gold!).
- Remove all old bedding and droppings.
- Clean Surfaces
- Wipe with vinegar-water spray (natural disinfectant).
- Let dry completely.
- Wipe with vinegar-water spray (natural disinfectant).
- Add Fresh Bedding
- Base layer of pine shavings or straw.
- Top with soft hay for nesting.
- Base layer of pine shavings or straw.
- Natural Add-Ins
- Dried herbs (lavender, mint) for scent and pest control.
- Dust lightly with food-grade diatomaceous earth in corners.
- Dried herbs (lavender, mint) for scent and pest control.
- Return Rabbits
- Add fresh water and hay—watch them settle in happily.
- Add fresh water and hay—watch them settle in happily.
Table: Natural Bedding Options
| Bedding Type | Pros | Cons |
| Pine Shavings | Absorbent, dust-free | Avoid cedar (oils too strong) |
| Straw | Insulating, cheap | Can be dusty |
| Hay | Edible, cozy nesting | Gets eaten quickly |
| Cardboard Shreds | Free, absorbent | Breaks down fast |
| Herb Mix Add-In | Pest-repelling, aromatic | Use dried only |
Natural Pest Prevention
- Dried lavender or mint sprinkled in bedding.
- Regular refresh (every 1-2 weeks in winter).
- Good ventilation to reduce moisture.
- Bumps & Bruises Salve for any hand scratches from cleaning.
Farm Notes
- Our rabbits love burrowing in fresh hay—great enrichment!
- Manure goes straight to compost for spring gardens.
- Works for outdoor hutches too (add windbreaks).
Wrapping Up
A winter rabbit hutch refresh with natural bedding keeps our bunnies healthy and happy through the cold months. Simple, effective, and homestead-right!
Stay inspired,
Kara
Lange Girl Farms
A few of the items we mention link to things we actually use around the farm. Buying through those links sends a little support our way at no extra cost to you — thank you for helping keep Lange Girl Farms going!
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