How to sanitize new/used nesting boxes?

[Elmochook]

I just got a great deal on 2 plastic nest boxes and need to sanitize them for my chooks. What are your suggestions to make sure they are mite free and ready for my babies?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Since they are plastic I would give them a good dunk in a bleach water solution. Let them set a bit than rinse, scrub with a brush if necessary.

 

[Elmochook]

Since they are plastic I would give them a good dunk in a bleach water solution. Let them set a bit than rinse, scrub with a brush if necessary.

awesome. I was hoping i could use bleach. They are attached to a piece of plywood so i may need to take them both off to do a good soak.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

awesome. I was hoping i could use bleach. They are attached to a piece of plywood so i may need to take them both off to do a good soak.

You don't have to if you can let it all dry out before installing it. The wood should be bleached too if you are reusing it. I personally would replace the wood.

 

[h2oratt]

Yes don’t some mites hid in wood...?

 

[Elmochook]

Yeah its just old particle board i think i will just replace it...

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Yeah its just old particle board i think i will just replace it...

Good idea, particle board has lots of hiding spots, and in general it rots easily. New wood is a good idea.

 

[h2oratt]

Get redwood if you can afford it..

 

[Elmochook]

Get redwood if you can afford it..

Well... Im really more of a pallet wood/salvaged wood girl so nope i cant quite afford redwood.

 

[h2oratt]

Well... Im really more of a pallet wood/salvaged wood girl so nope i cant quite afford redwood.

Sometimes you can find salvage redwood..