How to Make Your Own Incubator for a Science Project

A fun idea for a science project is to incubate a chicken egg and monitor the progress of the chick from the beginning of its growth to its hatching. However, purchasing an incubator can be very expensive, especially if you only need it for one-time project use. Fortunately, you can create a simple, effective incubator with inexpensive household objects. Furthermore, you can incorporate the creation of the incubator itself into your project notes, along with the details of the incubation.

Things You'll Need

  • Cardboard box with lid
  • 60-watt light bulb and lamp
  • Cutting blade
  • Wash cloths, 2
  • Thermometer
  • Humidifier
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a box large enough for the amount of eggs you will be incubating.

    • 2

      Cut a hole in the box large enough for the light bulb to fit through. Putting it in the side of the box is preferred, but you can also put it in the lid if the box isn't large enough to put it in the side.

    • 3

      Stick the light bulb through the hole.

    • 4

      Place the two washcloths in the box next to each other.

    • 5

      Dampen one washcloth. This will be used for humidity.

    • 6

      Place the egg on the dry cloth and place the thermometer and humidifier right next to the egg.

    • 7

      Turn the light on, wait 10 minutes, and observe the temperature and humidity.

    • 8

      Adjust temperature and humidity as needed by changing the amount of water on the cloth and moving the egg's position relative to the light bulb. Humidity should be between 58% and 60% and temperature should be between 100 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit.