Agricultural Kiln-Dried Sand Bedding
By Agricultural Sand Suppliers
Last reviewed: December 2025
Kiln-dried sand is considered the gold standard in dairy cow bedding, providing excellent cow comfort, low bacterial counts, and superior traction.
Overview
Sand bedding, particularly kiln-dried sand, is widely regarded as the gold standard for dairy cow comfort. Its inorganic nature, drainage properties, and cow acceptance make it ideal for freestall bedding.
Why Sand Excels
Inorganic Material
Physical Properties
Cow Preference
Studies consistently show cows prefer sand to other bedding options.
Types of Sand
Kiln-Dried Sand
Washed Sand
Construction Sand
Management Considerations
Daily Maintenance
Manure Handling
Facility Requirements
Sourcing Quality Sand
Specifications
Supplier Selection
Cost Factors
Initial Investment
Ongoing Costs
Value Proposition
Superior cow health often justifies costs through reduced mastitis, lameness, and improved production.
Key Features
- Kiln-Dried Processing: Removes moisture for consistent quality
- Inorganic Material: Doesn't support bacterial growth
- Excellent Comfort: Cows prefer sand for lying
- Heat Dissipation: Keeps cows cool in warm weather
- Consistent Particle Size: Optimized for bedding performance
Advanced Features
- Recycled Sand Systems: Sand can be separated and reused
- Custom Sizing: Particle size matched to equipment
Ideal For
Farm Types: Dairy farms, Freestall operations, Premium dairies
Competitive Advantages
What sets Kiln-Dried Sand Bedding apart from alternatives:
- Gold standard for cow comfort
- Reduces mastitis and SCC
- Can be recycled and reused
- Excellent heat management
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Kiln-Dried Sand Bedding:
Kiln-dried sand bedding for dairy freestalls.
Pricing Model: Per-ton delivered bedding
Price varies significantly by proximity to sand source. Consider sand recovery/separation systems for cost reduction.
Pros & Considerations
- Lower moisture reduces bacterial growth
- More consistent particle size than regular sand
- Easier to maintain stall surface
- Premium product for premium results
- Flows better through handling systems
- Higher cost than standard sand
- Still requires sand handling infrastructure
- Ongoing purchase required
- Premium price may not be justified for all farms
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Kiln-Dried Sand Bedding on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: Ongoing supply relationship
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Kiln-Dried Sand Bedding:
Support Channels:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Kiln-Dried Sand Bedding:
- Can your manure system handle sand?
- What separation equipment is needed?
- What is the local sand availability?
- What are your mastitis management goals?