What the best way to clean dirt floor cages??

[MakNat]

We built a 4 x 8 brooder cage in the corner of our barn. The floor is dirt, hard clay really. The first batch of chicks have out grown it and have moved to the main coop. I used some pine shavings in it and raked it out every week and added fresh. I was wondering how to clean it before the next batch comes in there. My idea is, and I have NO idea if this will even work or help, is to rake it out completely and spinkle a bunch of gardan lime in there, then spray it down with the water hose to get te lime to soak in, then just lock it up and let it dry for a few days.??? If you guys have different advice please let me know!! Thank you!

 

[Zahboo]

We always covered the dirt with straw and just clean out the straw/

 

[harrisville chicken]

A layer of sand lets the water drain, dries out the poop, and does not provide a decent home to some kinds of harmful bugs.

 

[MakNat]

How about limestone? That is what the rest of my barn floor is. They seem to love it and I have seen no ill effects.