Can Slightly Chlorinated Water Improve Hatch Rates?

[DannyDusty]

I've read that bacteria in your incubator can lower hatch rates, and some people recommend washing eggs with antibacterial soap before setting them. That got me wonderingwould using slightly chlorinated water in the incubators humidity tray be safe? Could it even help reduce bacteria and improve hatch rates?

I personally use well water, so I'd love to hear what others think. Has anyone tried this? Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

[FowlPlayMaster]

I'd worry about chlorine fumes affecting the chicks. Maybe try adding a safe incubator disinfectant instead of altering the water?

[ChickadeeChampion]

Some commercial hatcheries use specialized disinfectants in humidity water, but I wouldn't recommend standard chlorine. The chemical can react with organic matter and release fumes, which might harm chicks. If bacteria is a concern, look into incubator-safe disinfectants like Oxine or Brinsea's incubator disinfectant.

[ChickMagnet]

I had the same question a while back! I tested a mild chlorine solution (1-2 ppm) in my incubator water and didn't notice a difference in hatch rate, but I did feel like it reduced that musty incubator smell. However, I also made sure my ventilation was good to avoid any chlorine buildup.

[EggHatchHobbyist]

I've read that bacteria in your incubator can lower hatch rates, and some people recommend washing eggs with antibacterial soap before setting them. That got me wonderingwould using slightly chlorinated water in the incubators humidity tray be safe? Could it even help reduce bacteria and improve hatch rates?

I personally use well water, so I'd love to hear what others think. Has anyone tried this? Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Chlorine can be effective but also harsh. A better alternative might be adding a tiny bit of white vinegar or using boiled water to kill bacteria without the risk of fumes affecting embryos.

[TheEggMaster]

I've read that bacteria in your incubator can lower hatch rates, and some people recommend washing eggs with antibacterial soap before setting them. That got me wonderingwould using slightly chlorinated water in the incubators humidity tray be safe? Could it even help reduce bacteria and improve hatch rates?

I personally use well water, so I'd love to hear what others think. Has anyone tried this? Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,

Well water can have bacteria, so some chlorine might help. Just keep levels very low,too much could do more harm than good.

[WattleScribe]

I wouldn't risk it. Even a little chlorine could irritate embryos or chicks as they hatch. Maybe look into using electrolyzed water (EO water) instead,it's safe and has antibacterial properties.

[GoldenComb]

Chlorine is effective at killing bacteria, but it also dissipates quickly. If you use it, make sure it's in a very low concentration,just enough to sanitize, but not enough to cause harm. Another option is to use hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down into oxygen and water, making it safer for humidity control.

[BarnyardPhilosopher]

If you're using well water, a simple carbon filter might remove bacteria without needing chlorine. I'd be more worried about keeping the incubator itself clean rather than trying to sanitize humidity water.

[ScratchSeeker]

I use distilled water to avoid mineral buildup, but I sanitize my incubator between hatches. If bacteria is an issue, consider stronger cleaning methods instead.