Cleaning out feeders/waterers

[Agilityscots]

Hi all,

What do you use to clean out feeders and waterers? What's safe enough for my chicks but also strong enough to kill off any nasties? I only use natural cleaning products in my house (mostly Seventh Generation) and no chemicals of any kind...but even so, am still afraid to use them to clean off my girls' feeders and waterers because I know birds of all kinds are extra sensitive. Suggestions for natural cleaners would be greatly appreciated!

Amy

 

[JFL1950]

We have been just using water and wiping them with a towel since we feed and water them twice a day they don't get all that dirty.

 

[Agilityscots]

Thanks, JFL; I've been doing the same thing, but my chicks are pretty messy at almost 3 weeks old, and I would love to occasionally clean their "stuff" out with something stronger than water. I know when I'm wiping away poo off of their feeder, there's still nasty stuff left there that I can't see. I'm not a clean freak by any means but I just want something to really clean with. Any suggestions?

 

[Judymae]

Can you use diluted vinegar and water? I heard that is good for anything. I don't know about chickens though??!!

 

[joannamarie]

i use a tiny bit of antibacterial washing up liquid then rinse really well with hot water

 

[Agilityscots]

Hi Judy,

Vinegar and water sounds great! I wonder why I didn't think of that?

I imagine it's safe, if the chicks can drink ACV in their water...

Joanna, is that plain old dish soap you're referring to?

Amy

 

[joannamarie]

agilityscots, it is antibacterial washing-up-liquid in a squirty bottle that you wash the dishes with

 

[FluffyChickenMama]

Thats what I use.. Vinegar and hot Water.. I dont like to use chemicals either.. I also put a little bit of vinegar in all of my animals drinking water ever so often.. its suppose to be good for keeping fleas, ticks and other bugs off your little feathered/furry pals.. They dont seem to even notice its in there..

 

[Judymae]

Fluffychickenmama-I'm gonna try that. About how much vinegar do you put in their water. I have dogs, cats, chickens, etc. Spend alot on frontline! Not for the chickens!

 

[MayberrySaint]

I clean the waterer out weekly by adding bleach and rinsing well. Most people are hesitant about using bleach but it is definitely a broad-spectrum antibiotic, anti-fungal, anti-parasite, etc. product.