How to Safely Disinfect a Coop After Disease Outbreak?

[Eggnigma]

We lost most of our flock to Mareks or Leukosis, so Im doing a deep clean of our coop, feeders, and brooders. After cleaning with bleach and Dawn, Ill disinfect with Virkon S.

Im getting mixed advice some sources say to rinse everything after disinfecting, while others say just let it dry. I plan to leave the coop empty for months, but should I rinse after spraying?

Also, for regular cleaning, is there a safe disinfectant I can spray on boots, roosts, etc., without waiting 10 minutes or rinsing? Bleach works, but it ruins clothes, and Id rather avoid spraying harsh chemicals around the flock daily.

Id appreciate any advice or tips on what works best for long-term safety and ongoing maintenance!

[PeckingPioneer]

I'd recommend Oxine if you have a fogger,it penetrates every surface without heavy scrubbing. For daily disinfecting, try diluted vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, which are safe and effective.

[NestCrafter]

Virkon S works best when left to dry completely. No need to rinse unless animals will have direct contact. For daily use, try an accelerated hydrogen peroxide spray.

[HenThusiast]

Virkon S is highly effective, but rinsing is usually recommended for food/water areas. If you're letting the coop sit for months, drying alone should be fine. Oxine is another great option.

[BroodyBella]

Rinsing isn't necessary if the coop is unoccupied for months. However, for future biosecurity, keeping a footbath with a poultry-safe disinfectant near the entrance helps.

[HatchlingHustler]

I use diluted Oxine for routine cleaning,it's safe around birds and doesn't require rinsing. For deep cleans, Virkon S is excellent when left to dry completely.

[TheEggMaster]

I use Oxine for deep cleaning and a poultry-safe disinfectant for daily use. Rinsing isn't necessary unless animals will ingest residue.

[CrowingMystic]

Bleach and Dawn work well, but Virkon S offers broader disinfection. I'd apply it, let it dry, then lightly rinse high-contact areas like feeders. F10 SC is another great daily spray.

[DerekDrumstick]

Accelerated hydrogen peroxide (Rescue) is a good alternative to bleach for everyday use,it's safe, doesn't require rinsing, and won't destroy your clothes!