Cleaning the coop

[GW02]

I’m wondering what would be best to clean wood nest boxes? I was thinking maybe a vinegar/water mix would be good but wanted to make sure it would be safe, my chickens won’t be in there for another 2 weeks or so. The previous owners of my house left all the straw and nasties in the nest boxes I scooped everything out and vacuumed them but the wood still looks pretty gross and I of course don’t know if the previous chickens had anything that could be passed to mine. All help is much appreciated

 

[21hens-incharge]

If you post pics we can see if the wood is rotten.

If it's not rotten since you have a bit of time before the birds arrive maybe the cleaning and a good 3 coats of paint.

 

[Brooks_]

Agreeing with 21hens.

Clean best you can (vinegar/water is safe), then post pics.

 

[3KillerBs]

I agree in re: painting.

But I will mention that a bleach cleaner might add some peace of mind and the bleach will neutralize quickly and become harmless.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Popping back in to add that I use dish pans from dollar tree in my nest boxes. They are easy to lift out and wash up when needed.

If you go that route they do need an anti-tip board in front. Birds stepping in often step on the front lip of the box.

Mine....I built it so I can take everything including the dividers out when a full sweep out is needed or in case of treating the coop for mites.. You can see my anti-tip boards in the pic.

 

[Sally PB]

If you go that route they do need an anti-tip board in front. Birds stepping in often step on the front lip of the box.

Very clever! I like that.

 

[saysfaa]

In

Popping back in to add that I use dish pans from dollar tree in my nest boxes. They are easy to lift out and wash up when needed.

If you go that route they do need an anti-tip board in front. Birds stepping in often step on the front lip of the box.

Mine....I built it so I can take everything including the dividers out when a full sweep out is needed or in case of treating the coop for mites.. You can see my anti-tip boards in the pic.
..

I like your nests, very well done. You might add a picture to one of the nest box ideas threads so it is easier to find for people looking for ideas.

 

[21hens-incharge]

Here's one. There are TONS of posts and threads on here.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/nesting-box-ideas.1272240/#post-20451854

 

[Auntiejessi3]

I agree in re: painting.

But I will mention that a bleach cleaner might add some peace of mind and the bleach will neutralize quickly and become harmless.

x2 along with a good dusting of permethrin powder to make sure there are no creepy crawlies in any of the cracks and crevices

 

[suburbanfarmermi]

Very clever! I like that.

I concur... very Clever...