How do you get a roost clean?

[Carrie Lynn]

Okay, perhaps clean is the wrong word, that poop will never come off completely.
I'm concerned about foot infections from the poopy roost, a 2x4, flat side up.
How can I scrape it clean(er)?
Thanks in advance

 

[cackydoodledoo]

I just use a plastic putty knife and scrape all the big chunks off. I don't think it is any worse than them stepping all over in their poop in the coop. They don't look where they are walking!!

 

[mmaddie's mom]

yep... putty knife

maybe a little wipe down w/bleach

 

[Carrie Lynn]

Yep, I use an ice scraper to get all the chunks and scrape-ables off.
I worry about the cecal droppings

that don't scrape off nicely, but probably soak in.
Anyone ever use coarse sand paper?

 

[elmo]

The main thing is to make sure the wood is smooth with no splinters or rough edges that could cause abrasions. Cuts, nicks, etc. on the bottom of the chickens' feet could let bacteria enter and start bumblefoot infections.

I use Poop Off on my roost, but actually I'm thinking of resanding it and then painting it to seal the wood. It sure would make cleaning easier.

 

[patandchickens]

I really don't think you need to worry about infections from standing on an unsterile roost, unless it is really pretty horrible and scary which I'm sure it isn't.

If you just *like* cleaning roosts

or it is "about time", a paint scraper works well. If that's not enough, lay an old rag dampened in hot water and well-wrung-out onto the stubborn portions of the roost for an hour or so, then your paint scraper will get the softened material off. Remaining stains, e.g. from cecal poo, can be sanded off if you really really want to (wear a dust mask!!!)

Good luck, have fun,

Pat