Best Bedding for Horse Trailer

ByEquineathon

When hauling horses, comfort and safety inside the trailer are just as important as how smooth your truck pulls. The right bedding helps absorb urine, reduce slipping, and keep horses comfortable during short trips or long hauls. But not all bedding materials are equal. From shavings to pellets, mats, and alternatives, the best bedding for horse trailers balances absorbency, dust control, and cushioning. In this guide, we’ll cover the top bedding options, their pros and cons, and what works best for different hauling needs.

Quick Picks

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For in Trailer Bedding

Choosing bedding is about more than comfort. Here are the key factors to consider:

  • Absorbency: High absorbency reduces urine pooling and odors during trips.
  • Dust Control: Low-dust bedding is critical to protect horses’ lungs while enclosed in a trailer.
  • Cushioning: Good bedding helps prevent sore joints and provides footing for balance.
  • Clean-up: Some materials are easier to sweep or shovel out after trips.
  • Cost & Availability: Bedding should be affordable and easy to source locally or online.
  • Environmental Impact: Consider whether bedding can be composted or safely disposed of.

Detailed Product Reviews

Guardian Horse Bedding Premium Pine Shavings

Who it’s for: Horse owners wanting a dependable, low-dust wood shaving bedding for trailers and stalls.

  • Key Benefits: Kiln-dried pine shavings; low-dust formula; highly absorbent.
  • Pros: Gentle on hooves, controls odor, affordable and widely available.
  • Cons: Requires cleanup after every haul; bulk storage needed.

Final Verdict: A classic choice for trailer bedding that balances comfort, absorbency, and value. Check Guardian Pine Shavings.

Tractor Supply Pine Pellets Stall Bedding

Who it’s for: Budget-conscious buyers who want compact, highly absorbent bedding.

  • Key Benefits: Compressed pine pellets expand with moisture; very absorbent; easy to transport.
  • Pros: Economical, less storage space, strong odor control.
  • Cons: Harder underfoot until they break down with use.

Final Verdict: Great for horse owners who haul frequently and want cost-effective, easy-to-handle bedding. See Pine Pellets Bedding.

Equine Comfort Rubber Mats

Who it’s for: Horse owners who want a long-term, reusable solution instead of disposable bedding.

  • Key Benefits: Heavy-duty rubber mats; non-slip surface; reusable and easy to wash.
  • Pros: Durable, reduces waste, provides stable footing, easier clean-up.
  • Cons: High upfront cost; heavy to install.

Final Verdict: A premium solution for horse trailers—excellent footing, comfort, and reduced bedding waste. View Rubber Mats.

Equine Pine Flakes Bedding

Who it’s for: Owners who prefer larger flake shavings with less dust and fluffier bedding.

  • Key Benefits: Larger flakes for less dust; kiln-dried; lightweight.
  • Pros: Comfortable for horses; low dust; easy to clean.
  • Cons: Less absorbent than fine shavings.

Final Verdict: Best for sensitive horses that need dust-free, comfortable bedding. Check Equine Pine Flakes.

Standlee Premium Chopped Straw Bedding

Who it’s for: Horse owners who want a natural, biodegradable alternative to wood-based bedding.

  • Key Benefits: Chopped, dust-extracted straw; compostable; eco-friendly.
  • Pros: Environmentally friendly, affordable, good for composting.
  • Cons: Less absorbent than shavings or pellets; can be slippery if not managed.

Final Verdict: A solid eco-friendly option for short hauls. See Chopped Straw Bedding.

American Wood Fibers Fine Pine Bedding

Who it’s for: Horse trailer owners needing high absorbency and easy cleanup.

  • Key Benefits: Fine, kiln-dried pine particles; high absorbency; consistent quality.
  • Pros: Excellent odor control, high absorption, minimal dust.
  • Cons: Finer texture can stick to horses’ coats more easily.

Final Verdict: A great choice for long trips where absorbency is crucial. Check American Wood Fibers Bedding.

Comparison Table

Product Type Absorbency Dust Level Price Range
Guardian Pine Shavings Shavings High Low $$
Tractor Supply Pine Pellets Pellets Very High Medium $
Equine Comfort Rubber Mats Rubber Mats Reusable None $$$$
Equine Pine Flakes Flake Shavings Medium Very Low $$
Standlee Chopped Straw Straw Medium Low $
American Wood Fibers Fine Pine Fine Shavings Very High Low $$$

FAQ Section

  • What’s the safest bedding for horse trailers? Kiln-dried pine shavings or pellets are safest—they’re absorbent and low-dust.
  • Should I use rubber mats under bedding? Yes—mats prevent slipping and reduce the amount of bedding needed.
  • Is straw good for horse trailer bedding? It can be used but is less absorbent and can get slippery—best for short trips.
  • How much bedding should I use? Enough to provide a cushioned, absorbent layer (usually 2–3 inches) without being too deep.
  • Do I need to clean bedding after every trip? Yes—removing wet, soiled bedding prevents ammonia buildup and improves horse health.

Conclusion

The best bedding for horse trailers combines absorbency, dust control, and comfort. For most owners, Guardian Pine Shavings are the most reliable all-around choice. If budget is a concern, Pine Pellets from Tractor Supply are affordable and effective. For long-term investment, Equine Comfort Rubber Mats reduce waste and provide consistent footing. Whatever your choice, the right bedding keeps your horses safe, comfortable, and calm on every trip. Choose your trailer bedding today and give your horses the ride they deserve.