Good coop hygiene is essential for keeping backyard chickens healthy, comfortable and productive.
A clean environment helps reduce the risk of disease, controls pests and supports overall flock wellbeing.
We recommend a light clean once a week, with a more thorough deep clean once a month.
Step 1: Remove everything that can come out
Start by taking out all removable items such as feeders, drinkers, detachable perches, nesting box dividers and any trays or flooring inserts.
Give these a quick inspection as you go. Lightly brush off dust and debris, or if they’re particularly dirty, wash them in hot, soapy water. Allow everything to dry completely before placing it back.
Step 2: Clear out old bedding
Remove damp, soiled or compacted bedding and replace it with new material. This is one of the most effective ways to reduce bacteria build-up and help prevent the risk of nasties like coccidiosis.
Take the opportunity to get right into the corners and edges where moisture and waste can collect. While you’re there, it is a great opportunity to do a quick check of the coop structure… look for gaps, leaks or loose fittings that could allow pests or predators in.
Step 3: Clean the nesting boxes
Empty nesting boxes of any dirty bedding, droppings or debris. Keeping these areas clean is important for reducing disease risk and discouraging flies.
If you’re planning to use poultry manure in the garden, make sure it’s composted properly first to allow it to break down safely.
Step 4: Treat for mites and lice
Lightly dust the coop with a poultry-safe mite and lice powder, available from most pet or rural supply stores.
Step 5: Add fresh bedding
Re-lay the bedding through the coop. Straw, wood shavings or other dry, lightweight materials all work well.
Step 6: Reassemble and refresh feed and water
Make sure the feeder is out of the weather and out of areas where it is going to get droppings or water readily into it.
For step-by-step instructions, see the video below.
For more guidance on keeping your flock healthy and well cared for, explore the Barastoc Chook Book.