If your chickens have been dealing with worms recently, you'll know just how frustrating and persistent the problem can be. Worms don't disappear over winter, and with wetter, parasite pressure often increases. That's why now is the perfect time to deep clean your chicken coop, reset your birds' health, and get red mite prevention in place before warmer weather arrives. 

A thorough coop clean helps reduce parasites, supports egg production, and creates a healthier environment for your flock as spring approaches. 

Why Worms and Parasites Are a Year-Round Problem

According to poultry vet Ben, worms remain active throughout the winter months:

" Worms don't disappear over winter and stay problematic. We've seen a spike in worm treatments and testing kits recently with the wetter weather. The best thing you can do is wipe the slate clean and get your coop and birds warm-weather ready." 

Moist conditions allow parasites and bacteria to thrive, making regular coop hygiene and preventative treatments essential for flock health. 

The Ultimate Chicken Coop Reset Package

Our Chicken Coop Reset Package includes everything you need for a complete clean-out and parasite prevention routine. All products are ready-to-use, vet-approved and used in commercial poultry settings with proven efficacy. 

What's included in the Cleaning Package? 

  • Poultry Detergent & Disinfectant - Breaks down dirt, grease, and organic matter that harbour bacteria and viruses
  • Interkokask RTU - A DEFRA-approved broad-spectrum disinfectant for poultry housing 
  • Stalosan F - Supports ongoing control of odour, moisture, and bacteria between deep cleans
  • Home Shield - A powerful solution for red mite prevention and management, ideal before spring and summer 

Benefits of Deep Cleaning Your Chicken Coop in Late Winter / Early Spring 

Giving your cop a thorough clean at this time of year helps to: 

  • Provide a clean, hygienic environment for laying hens and hatching chicks
  • Minimise worms, mites, and other external parasites 
  • Reduce dampness and ammonia build-up during wetter months
  • Support overall flock health and egg production 
  • Extend the lifespan of wooden and metal housing 

  • How to Clean a Chicken Coop Properly (Step-by-Step Guide) 

  • Step 1: Remove Organic Matter 
  • "See it, clean it." 
  • Remove all organic matter. Ideally, blast surfaces with water. Organic matter hides bacteria and viruses, and chicken faeces is acidic - over time it can rot wooden coops and corrode metal fittings. 
  • Step 2: Clean with Detergent 
  • Apply a high-quality poultry detergent, such as Poultry Detergent & Disinfectant. Leave for the recommended contact time to expose bacteria, then rinse thoroughly. Ensure no residue remains and allow the coop to dry completely. 
  • Step 3: Disinfect Thoroughly
  • Spray all surfaces with a poultry-specific disinfectant such as Interkokask RTU to kill remaining pathogens. 
  • Step 4: Apply Red Mite Treatment
  • Treat the coop, bedding, nest boxes, perch ends, and dry scratch areas with a mite-specific product such as Home Shield, following label instructions carefully.

  • What is Home Shield and Why Use it Now? 

  • Home Shield is an at-home version of Fossil Shield, a product trusted by over 300 poultry farms across the UK and Ireland, protecting more than 9 million hens. 
  • It works up to 12 times faster and lasts up to twice as long as traditional diatomaceous earth products, making it ideal for preventative red mite control before temperatures rise. 

  • Key Benefits of Home Shield 

  • Works up to 12x faster 
  • Protects for up to 2x longer
  • Immediate and long-lasting effect
  • Ready-to-use liquid spray
  • Ideal for both prevention and active infestations 

  • Popular FAQs

  • Can chickens get worms in winter? 
  • Yes. Chickens can get worms all year round. Worm eggs survive in damp ground, bedding and wet winter conditions often increase the risk of reinfection 
  • Does cleaning a chicken coop help with worms? 
  • Yes. Deep cleaning removes worm eggs from droppings, bedding, and surfaces, helping to break the parasite lice cycle and reduce reinfection alongside worming treatments.
  • When is the best time to deep clean a chicken coop? 
  • Late winter or early spring is ideal. Cleaning at this time reduces parasite levels before warmer weather increases worm and red mite activity. 
  • How do I prevent red mite in my chicken coop? 
  • Prevent red mite by thoroughly cleaning the coop, disinfecting all surfaces, and treating cracks, perch ends, and nest boxes with a mite-specific product before spring.