Are you a chicken owner who’s tired of dealing with messy and dirty water containers? If so, you’re not alone. The traditional blue and white chicken water container can quickly become contaminated with poop and bedding, making it a hassle to clean and maintain.
But fear not, there are alternative water containers available that are cleaner, more efficient, and easier to maintain. In this article, I’ll share my tips and tricks for changing your old chicken water container and keeping your coop clean.
The Problem with Traditional Chicken Water Containers
Let’s face it, traditional chicken water containers are just not that great. They are often made of cheap plastic and are not very durable. They tend to leak, making a mess in your coop, and they can quickly become contaminated with chicken poop and bedding. Here are some common problems with traditional chicken water containers:
- They leak: The little blue and white chicken water container is notorious for leaking. It doesn’t matter if you hang it up or put it on the floor, the water always seems to spill out.
- They get dirty quickly: Chicken water containers are magnets for dirt and poop. Chickens love to scratch around and kick bedding into their water, which quickly turns it into a muddy mess.
- They are hard to clean: Cleaning traditional chicken water containers is a pain. You have to take them apart, scrub them down, and then reassemble them. It’s time-consuming and not very effective.
But don’t worry, there are alternatives to traditional chicken water containers that are cleaner and more efficient.
Alternative Water Containers for Your Chickens
- Automatic Waterer
Automatic waterers are a great alternative to traditional chicken water containers. They are designed to keep water fresh and clean while preventing spillage and contamination. Automatic waterers come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can choose one that best fits your needs.
One of the best things about automatic waterers is that they are self-contained. They are typically made of durable plastic or metal and are designed to hold a large amount of water. Most automatic waterers have a float valve that regulates the water level, so your chickens always have access to clean water.
- Nipple Waterer
Another option is a nipple waterer. Nipple waterers are designed to be hung in your coop and provide a steady supply of clean water. They work by releasing a small amount of water through a small nipple when the chicken pecks at it.
Nipple waterers are easy to clean and prevent spillage and contamination. They are also great for preventing waste since chickens can’t splash the water out.
- Bucket Waterer
A bucket waterer is a simple and effective option for chicken owners. It’s basically a bucket with a waterer attached to the bottom. The waterer is designed to release water into a small dish as the chickens drink.
Bucket waterers are easy to fill and clean, and they can hold a large amount of water. They are also easy to move around, so you can place them wherever you need them.
Tips for Keeping Your Water Container Clean
No matter what type of water container you choose, there are some tips you can follow to keep it clean and prevent contamination:
- Change the Water Frequently One of the most important things you can do to keep your chicken’s water clean is to change it frequently. Stagnant water is a breeding ground for bacteria and other contaminants, so it’s important to change it at least once a day. In hot weather or if you have a lot of chickens, you may need to change it more often.
- Use Fresh Water Always use fresh, clean water in your chicken water container. Avoid using water from a pond or other untreated water source, as it may contain harmful bacteria. If you’re using a bucket waterer or other large container, consider adding a water treatment to help keep the water fresh and clean.
- Protect Your Water Container Chickens love to scratch around and kick bedding into their water, so it’s important to protect your water container from contamination. Hang nipple waterers or automatic waterers at chicken head level to prevent chickens from scratching bedding into the water. If you’re using a bucket waterer, place it on a cinder block or other elevated surface to keep it out of the bedding.
- Clean Your Water Container Regularly Regular cleaning is essential for keeping your chicken’s water container clean and free of bacteria. How often you clean it will depend on the type of container you have and how many chickens you have. For example, if you have a lot of chickens or if they are particularly messy, you may need to clean your water container every day. When cleaning your water container, be sure to use hot, soapy water and a brush to scrub away any dirt and grime. Rinse thoroughly and dry before refilling with fresh water.
Conclusion
Keeping your chicken’s water container clean is essential for their health and well-being. Traditional chicken water containers can be messy and difficult to clean, but there are alternative options like automatic waterers, nipple waterers, and bucket waterers that are cleaner and more efficient.
No matter what type of water container you choose, be sure to change the water frequently, use fresh water, protect the container from contamination, and clean it regularly. By following these tips, you can ensure that your chickens always have access to clean and fresh water, which is essential for their health and happiness.
