Incubation Guide Part 2: Setting Up for Success – Preparing and Starting Your Incubation

Getting Started: The Critical First Step Before Incubation
Your incubator is set up, the eggs are ready, and you’re probably tempted to get things going. But before you press that start button, it’s worth slowing down—just a little. The truth is, what you do before Day One can have a big impact on what happens on Day 21.
Many hatch failures don’t come from problems during incubation—they start earlier, with small details that get overlooked. Things like warming eggs properly, placing them correctly, and double-checking your incubator’s settings might seem basic, but they play a huge role in giving those tiny embryos the stable, healthy environment they need to grow.
Whether this is your first hatch or your fifth, taking the time to prepare carefully will increase your chances of strong, healthy chicks—and a more rewarding experience overall.
Preparing Your Eggs: It’s Optional, But Worth It
You might wonder if egg prep really matters. In my experience, spending a little time here can reduce bacteria risk and help embryos thrive.
Warm Your Eggs Slowly
If your eggs have been chilling in a fridge or cool room (say 50–59°F / 10–15°C), bring them up to room temperature (around 71–77°F / 22–25°C) by leaving them out for 4 to 12 hours. Why? Because putting cold eggs straight into a warm incubator causes condensation on the shell, which can lead to bacterial problems. It’s a small step that can save you headaches later.
(Want to know how to pick and store eggs like a pro? Check out our Egg Selection and Storage Guide.)
Cleaning Eggs: Handle With Care
Only clean eggs if they’re visibly dirty. Otherwise, skip it. Washing can strip off the egg’s natural protective coating (called the “bloom”), which is there to keep bad stuff out.
If you have to clean, gently wipe off dirt with a dry cloth or use a warm, gentle disinfectant designed for eggs, then let them air dry completely. Avoid cold water—it can suck bacteria inside the egg, which is the last thing you want.
Mark Your Eggs: Keep Track the Easy Way
A little pencil mark goes a long way. I usually write a number or my initials on each egg so I can keep track. If you’re turning eggs by hand, marking one side with an “X” and the other side with an “O” helps you remember which way they’ve been turned—because consistent turning is key.
Choosing the Right Spot for Your Incubator
Where you place your incubator is just as important as how you set it up. Temperature stability plays a major role in hatch success, and that starts with location. Choose a spot away from windows, direct sunlight, vents, heaters, or drafty hallways—basically anywhere the room temperature might swing.
Aim for a consistent room temperature between 65–75°F (18–24°C). And once your eggs are inside, keep the incubator on a flat, stable surface and avoid moving it. Shifting the incubator can disturb the embryos and may lead to poor development.
Pro tip: If you live in an area prone to power outages, consider having a backup power source like a battery unit or small generator. Even a brief loss of power during incubation can disrupt the entire process.
Placing Your Eggs: Why Space and Stability Matter
Once your incubator is in the right spot, it’s time to position your eggs. Be sure not to overcrowd them—each egg needs space for air to circulate freely. Good airflow helps maintain even temperature and humidity, which are essential for embryo growth.
If you’re using an automatic egg turner, double-check that each egg is correctly placed in its slot. Misaligned or loosely placed eggs may not turn properly, which can lead to uneven development.
Still looking for the right setup? Browse our Egg Incubator Collection to find a model that fits your goals and your budget.
And always handle your eggs with care. A sudden knock or shake—even before incubation starts—can damage the embryo and affect your hatch rate.
The Last Check Before Incubation Begins
Before sealing the incubator and stepping away, double-check these critical points:
Temperature & Humidity:
For chicken eggs in a forced-air incubator, set the temperature at 99.5°F (37.5°C). For still-air incubators, it’s usually around 101.5°F (38.6°C) near the top of the eggs. Keep humidity between 50–55% relative humidity.
Use a reliable, calibrated digital thermometer and hygrometer—don’t rely solely on the incubator’s built-in gauges.
Turning Eggs:
Automatic turners should turn eggs 4 to 8 times daily, spaced evenly. If you turn eggs by hand, aim for at least 3 times a day, spaced out to avoid long gaps (especially overnight).
Pre-Hatch Checklist:
Eggs are clean, warmed, and marked clearly
Eggs are spaced to allow airflow
Temperature and humidity are stable and accurate
The turning mechanism works perfectly
Incubator is placed in a safe, calm spot
Lid is closed and avoid opening too often in the first days
Wrapping Up: A Thoughtful Start Goes a Long Way
Honestly, the difference between a good hatch and a great hatch often comes down to the care you take before Day 1. Gentle warming, careful marking, proper placement, and a stable environment all add up to stronger embryos and happier chicks.
If you ever get stuck or have questions about your incubator, our after-sales support team is just a message away and ready to help you troubleshoot or give advice.
�� Ready for the next step? Check out Part 3: Incubation Monitoring and Egg Candling to learn how to track your eggs’ development and spot any early signs of trouble.