Need tips for proper cleaning of housing areas

[ninjapoodles]

I have some things that need to be cleaned prior to new birds using them--nest boxes, a small coop, a hutch, etc. All made of wood and wire, except one plastic nest box (a re-purposed litter box). I know what to use for dogs/puppies, but I'm worried about "overkill" with the chickens. I understand that birds are more sensitive to chemicals, so I don't want to overdo it, but at the same time, I want everything to be nice and clean.

If you use bleach, what's the proper dilution ratio with water? Do you soak wood with this solution and then let it completely dry? What about cleaning wire or plastic? Do you do it any differently for adult birds than for baby chicks?

Help!

 

[MissPrissy]

1 tbsp of bleach to a gallon of warm water is enough to clean nest boxes and things. You can spray it on and let dry and air out. Done.

Washable surfaces I would scrub down, rinse and dry.

 

[ninjapoodles]

Quote:
Thanks--that's exactly what I needed to know! I'm glad I asked first, because I would have used a too-strong bleach solution.

I ran the bottom pan of the litterbox through the dishwasher on high heat. It's one of those triangular boxes, covered, with a little door, made to fit in a corner, and it is PERFECT for a nest-box! I'll use the bleach solution inside the top compartment, and let it dry in the sun.