Are you tired of wasting feed, dealing with messy coops, and constantly refilling feeders?

Discover how you can build your own efficient chicken feeders without breaking the bank!

DIY hacks to upcycled materials, these cost-effective solutions will revolutionize your farm setup and ensure your flock stays well-fed with minimal effort.

1. PVC Pipe Gravity Feeder – The Effortless Classic

Why It Works:

• Uses gravity to dispense feed efficiently
• Minimizes spillage and waste
• Ideal for small and large flocks alike

What You Need:

• PVC pipe (4-6 inches in diameter)
• Elbow fittings
• End caps

How to Build:

1. Cut the PVC pipe to your desired length.
2. Attach an elbow fitting at the bottom.
3. Secure it vertically inside the coop or run.
4. Fill from the top and let gravity do the work!

2. Bucket Treadle Feeder – A Mess-Free Solution

Why You’ll Love It:

• Keeps feed dry and clean
• Reduces rodent problems
• Saves feed by only opening when stepped on

How to Build It:

1. Attach a treadle (pedal) to a bucket lid.
2. Hinge the lid so it opens when the chicken steps on it.
3. Fill with feed and enjoy an automated system!

3. Upcycled Wooden Box Feeder – Eco-Friendly and Functional

Why It’s a Must-Try:

• Made from recycled materials
• Sturdy and long-lasting
• Can hold a large quantity of feed

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Find an old wooden box or crate.
2. Cut a feeding hole near the bottom.
3. Attach a small lip to prevent excessive spillage.
4. Secure in a dry, shaded area.

4. Rain-Proof Gutter Feeder – The Outdoor Champion

What Makes It Stand Out?

• Perfect for free-range flocks
• Prevents feed from getting wet
• Incredibly easy to install

How to Set It Up:

1. Mount a gutter horizontally on a wall or fence.
2. Cover with a sloped lid or install under a roof overhang.
3. Fill with feed and let your flock peck away!

5. Hanging Bottle Feeder – A No-Cost Marvel

Why It’s Genius:

• Costs nothing if using an old bottle
• Ideal for small coops
• Reduces floor mess

Instructions:

1. Cut holes in a plastic bottle’s side.
2. Attach a small dish at the bottom.
3. Hang it at chicken beak height.
4. Fill and watch them peck happily!

6. Tote Bin Feeder – Large Capacity, Low Maintenance

Key Benefits:

• Holds up to 50 lbs of feed
• Saves you time on refilling
• Prevents pests and spillage

DIY Steps:

1. Drill holes near the bottom of a plastic tote bin.
2. Insert PVC elbows into the holes.
3. Fill the bin with feed and place a lid on top.
4. Chickens access feed through the PVC openings.

7. Cinder Block Feeder – The Indestructible Choice

Why It’s Perfect for Rough Terrain:

• Extremely durable
• No risk of tipping over
• Can be used for both feed and water

Quick Setup:

1. Place a shallow dish inside a cinder block hole.
2. Pour feed into the dish.
3. Adjust placement to keep it dry and clean.

8. Trough Feeder – Ideal for Large Flocks

Why It’s Worth It:

• Great for multiple birds feeding at once
• Simple and easy to build
• Limits waste with a raised design

How to Build:

1. Use a PVC pipe, wooden plank, or metal tray.
2. Raise it slightly off the ground.
3. Secure it in place to prevent tipping.

9. Automatic Hopper Feeder – Set and Forget

Why You Need This:

• Minimizes daily refills
• Keeps feed dry and clean
• Simple to construct

DIY Guide:

1. Use a plastic bin or storage container.
2. Cut a hole at the bottom for feed flow.
3. Place it on a raised platform.

10. Recycled Tire Feeder – Unbeatable Durability

Why It’s a Winner:

• Withstands all weather conditions
• Uses upcycled materials
• Prevents feed from spilling

Steps to Make It:

1. Clean and cut a tire in half.
2. Fill with feed and place in a shaded area.
3. Ensure it’s stable to prevent flipping.

11. Shoebox Feeder – The Ultimate Budget Fix

Why You Should Try This:

• No cost involved
• Quick and easy setup
• Works well for emergency feeding

DIY Instructions:

1. Cut a hole in an old shoebox lid.
2. Place a small dish inside.
3. Pour in the feed and let the chickens enjoy!

12. Barrel Feeder The Long-Term Solution

Why It’s Ideal for Farms:

• Holds a massive amount of feed
• Perfect for those with multiple birds
• Reduces refilling frequency

How to Set It Up:

1. Use a large plastic or metal barrel.
2. Cut access holes near the bottom.
3. Add PVC pipe fittings or small trays.
4. Fill with feed and let your chickens feast!

Final Thoughts: Your Farm Setup Just Got Smarter!

Imagine the time and money you’ll save with these affordable, DIY chicken feeders! Not only will your flock enjoy a constant food supply, but you’ll also eliminate unnecessary waste, deter pests, and keep feed dry and fresh.

So, which cost-effective feeder are you going to build first? Let us know your favorite idea and get started today!