Add Bleach to the incubator water??

[msbliss]

I found a link, I believe it was a 4H-type thing about incubating chickens, etc. (I think through google - I'll try to find it again)

The author of the article said at 18 days, they pour out all the water, mix a solution of 1 part bleach/9 parts water and add THAT as the final water for hatching. Said their hatch rates are higher with this method.

I've not seen it mentioned here - has anyone done this? Thoughts? This being my first incubation, with precious eggs that I don't want to lose, I don't think I can bring myself to try this method. However, I'd love to hear what you all think??

------
Jennifer outside Ft. Smith AR
Beginning Day 4 incubating

 

[speckledhen]

I've read that, but I've never done it and my hatch rates are fine. I probably won't try it, either.

 

[Tuffoldhen]

Nope not going to try that one....I would think the fumes would not be a good idea..even the smallest amount of bleach on anything has a smell...

...

 

[msbliss]

Yeah, even at that small mix, it sounded kinda yucky to me too...it just seems like the solution would permeate the air in there (esp with the higher humidity) & not be good for the delicate chicks. I thought it was kinda odd, but the claims were interesting...??

 

[luvzmybabz]

I have never tried this but when my grandparents had ostiches my grandmother would drill a hole in one end and set them in blech water alothough at much higher concentrations and it would clean out the eggs even if there was a embryo in it it also seems to weaken the shell somewhat i wonder if this is what they are trying to do.

 

[silkiechicken]

I would pass. Even small levels of bleach burns. And you use bleach to kill things. So no idea but I don't think I'll try this either. I do however say soak the bator in bleach when you are done to clean out all the bacteria.

 

[ksacres]

not supposed to use bleach or other harsh chemicals in a styrofoam type for sure! I think I'll pass.

 

[KKluckers]

I dont think I would do it either. that would suck for you first breath of air to be bleach fumes.

 

[Renegade]

Not tryng to stir up anything but if you're using tap water and you have city water you are adding bleach water your incubator.

Donna

 

[ksacres]

I have a well

And the amounts of chlorine in tap water are no where near as high as they would be by adding strait bleach...