Barn Cleaning Tips
Add these barn cleaning tips to your homesteading toolkit for an easier and more efficient way to keep your barn in tip-top shape.
Keeping your barn clean is important for keeping a healthier shelter for your animals. With a mix of regular upkeep and occasional deep cleaning, you can create a space that’s not only more organized but also cleaner and safer year-round.
Homesteading tips for an upkeep routine that will help to make those big seasonal cleanouts in spring and fall much more manageable.
There is nothing worse than walking into a barn that is dusty, dirty, and unorganized. It’s just like walking into a cluttered house—it can zap your energy and turn simple chores into a total headache.
If you own a barn, you already know how important it is to keep it clean—not just for organization’s sake but for raising healthier, happier animals. The problem? Barn cleaning can feel like one of those enormous, never-ending projects. But here’s the good news—if you know how often to clean and the best times of the year to tackle it, you can plan ahead and make it way more manageable.
Why do you need to routinely clean your barn?
Think of barn cleaning as more than cleaning up—it’s about making sure your animals, tools, and even you stay healthy and safe. When dirt, dust, debris, and even mold start to pile up, it can create an environment that’s not only unpleasant but also downright unhealthy.
A barn that’s left messy for too long can become a hazard for your family, your animals, and anyone who spends time there while attracting unwanted pests.
Thankfully, it doesn’t take much to avoid all that. By tackling small tasks daily for upkeep, spot cleaning weekly to keep big messes away, and seasonal cleanings, you can keep things under control.
With the right routine, you’ll have a barn that’s clean, safe, and a much better space for your animals to thrive. Plus, it makes your life a whole lot easier at chore time.
Barn cleaning tools
Let’s face it—barn cleaning is no easy job. And as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that having the right tools can make all the difference in how tough the job feels. It’s not just about getting things done faster; it’s also about saving wear and tear on your body. Trust me, investing in tools that help you work smarter, not harder, is worth every penny.
That being said, you don’t have to break the bank for a wheelbarrow or rake. Some of my favorite finds have come from yard sales or second-hand listings online. You’d be surprised how many great tools are out there just waiting for a new home.
Start by making a list of must-haves for your barn cleaning kit, and keep an eye out for deals.
Tools to consider purchasing are:
- Wheelbarrow – To put manure in.
- Manure shovel – Look for an economical option if you have physical limitations.
- Barn rake – I love this rake for spot cleaning!
Rubbermaid Commercial Products 8.75 Cubic Foot, All-Weather, Big-Wheel Cart/Yard Cart/Lawn Cart/Wheelbarrow, Yardwork/Landscaping/DIY Projects, Durable/Weather Resistant, BlackHANTOP Aluminum Shovel Scoop Shovel Heavy Duty Metal Shovel Snow Shovel Oak Handle Digging Shovel for Driveway,Farm,Pasture, 46 inches
Little Giant® DuraFork Pitch Fork | Manure Fork | Polycarbonate Stable Fork with Angled Tines | Blue
- Facemask – This helps to protect your lungs from dust and debris in the air.
- Scraper – Works great to remove caked on manure.
- Broom – For sweeping and cobwebs.
- Back Brace – To protect your back when working.
COOLZU 6 Pack Neck Gaiter Face Mask: Scarf Gator Breathable Balaclava Cooling Cover Masks for Men Women (Multicolor-1)Copper Fit X-Back Brace for Lower Back Pain, Lumbar Support, Herniated Disc, Sciatica, Arthritis – Adjustable, Breathable Design – for Men and Women (Small/Medium)
Rerdeim 5Pcs Putty Knife, Set, 1
Daily Barn Cleaning Tasks
Barns are always busy with activity, and with so much going on, the mess can pile up faster than you think. That’s why it’s a good idea to give the space a quick once-over every day. By staying on top of small messes now, you can avoid dealing with a much bigger headache later.
Cleaning Tip: Try spot cleaning daily. It’s amazing how much of a difference it makes. For me, filling one wheelbarrow a day with soiled bedding has been a game-changer. It’s not a huge task, but it’s something manageable that keeps the barn from getting out of hand. Plus, a little effort every day beats spending hours on a massive cleanup later.
Daily Barn Cleaning checklist
- Manure: Use a manure rake and clear out soiled bedding each day. You aren’t doing a full cleanout, just a spot clean on the worst areas. This simple step can help keep flies at bay and make the barn a much better space for everyone.
- Bedding: Check your animals’ bedding daily and remove anything wet or soiled. Replace it with fresh, clean dry bedding.
- Water: Dump out any old water and refill containers with fresh, clean water.
- Feeders: Toss out any leftover feed and give them fresh food. If you’re finding that feed is constantly going to waste, take a moment to reevaluate your feeding routine. Adjust portion sizes or feeding times as needed—it’ll save you money and keep your animals happy without overfeeding or wasting.
- Milk Parlor: Wipe everything down every day when you are finished milking. Keep things covered or closed up to reduce dust and dirt.
- Feed Room: Keep all food in airtight containers to keep rodents and pests out. Sweep as needed and quickly clean up any spills.
Weekly Barn Cleaning Tasks
A clean barn doesn’t just happen—it’s all about setting aside some time each week to tackle the bigger tasks. It might take a little extra effort, but trust me, it’s worth it for a healthier, happier environment for both you and your animals.
Weekly barn Cleaning checklist:
- Floors: Start by sweeping up dirt, hay, and any feed that’s been spilled during the week. Scrape any areas with caked-on manure, use a paint scraper to help make this job easier.
- Walls: Wipe down walls to remove any cobwebs or dust. If there are any areas with mold, use an appropriate cleaner to remove it.
- Manure: Give the barn a thorough manure check and remove anything that’s built up. Not only does this help with odors, but it also keeps germs and diseases from spreading.
- Feeders and Waterers: Each week, wash out all feeders and waterers and rinse thoroughly to get rid of any lingering food or grime.
- Milk Parlor: Give all surfaces a good wipe-down and get rid of cobwebs or dust. Don’t forget to wash down the floor mat if you use one—it makes a big difference.
- Feed Room: Tidy up and clean any messy spots in the feed room. A little effort here goes a long way in reducing flies and pests, which no one wants hanging around.
Cleaning Tip: If pests or mice are a problem in your barn, invest in airtight storage containers. The cost is a bit high, but the money you will save in the long run is worth it.
Gamma2 Vittles Vault Stackable Dog Food Storage Container With Airtight Lid – Fits up to 60 Pounds of Dry Pet Food – For Bulk Cat Kibble Use – BPA-Free Plastic – Made in the USA – 14.5Mighty Tuff 5 Gallon / 21 Pound Pet Food Storage Container, Pack of 2 with Metal Handle and Airtight Lid to Lock in Freshness, Light Grey Base & Dark Grey Lid
Mighty Tuff 13 Gallon/up to 54 Pound Pet Food Storage Container with Airtight Lid and Built-In Handles for Easy Transport, BPA Free, Made for Durable and Versatile Storage
If new containers are not in the budget, check out our complete list of livestock feed storage containers for DIY solutions that work great.
Monthly Barn Cleaning Tasks
Once a month, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and do a deep clean. Think of it as hitting the refresh button on your barn. A little extra effort now will keep it smelling fresh, looking great, and—most importantly—free of germs.
Monthly Checklist
- Clean and Organize Supplies: Start by making sure all your tools, supplies, and medications are sorted and put back where they belong. A neat area saves you time and stress when you need something quickly.
- Disinfect Everything: Break out the disinfectant and go over surfaces like walls, floors, stalls, and feeders. This step is essential to stop the spread of germs and give your animals a healthier space to live in.
- Ventilation Check: Don’t forget to open up those windows and doors. Bringing in fresh air goes a long way toward keeping the barn smelling clean and reducing allergens that can stir up trouble for both people and animals. If you have ceiling vents, wipe them down to remove any buildup of dust or dirt.
- Clean the Fans: If your barn has fans, grab a broom and carefully dust both the front and back sides. Clean fans work more efficiently and help keep the air circulating properly.
- Milk Parlor: Pull everything out if you are able and give this area a good cleaning.
- Feed Room: Check containers, update your list for your next feed order, and make adjustments to your feed routine if needed.
What time of year is the best time to do a full barn clean out?
The best time to clean your barn is in the spring and fall. This is when the temperatures are mild, not too hot or too cold, allowing you to open doors and windows while cleaning. Good air flow will help all of the dust, dirt, debris, and other particles have somewhere to go. It also allows for fresh air to help with any odors that may linger in the space.
Seasonal Barn Cleaning Tasks
In addition to monthly cleaning tasks, there are some seasonal tasks that need to be done on a regular basis. Here are some of the most important ones:
Spring Cleaning:
Spring is a bigger job, especially if you live in an area where your animals are indoors all winter. Be sure to enlist help to get these additional tasks done.
- Begin with a deep clean: Move things around, get into those corners, and clear out the dirt and grime that’s built up. Keep an eye out for any structural damage or spots of mold while you’re at it. Catching these early makes repairs much easier (and cheaper!).
- Inspect: While cleaning, take the chance to inspect and repair any broken tools or equipment. If there are worn-out parts, now’s the time to replace them so everything is ready to go for the busy months ahead.
- Stalls: Next, completely clean out your bedding areas and stalls. Add a layer of lime before putting in fresh bedding to help manage pests and parasites. This small touch can make a big difference in keeping your animals comfortable and healthy.
- Check fans: And before the summer heat kicks in, check your fans. Dust them off, give them a good cleaning, and do any necessary repairs to make sure they’re working effectively when you’ll need them most.
Summer Cleaning
Summer is more about care and prep than cleaning. Investing time to your barn and livestock can keep everyone organized and comfortable.
- Pest control: Warm weather often means more insects and pests, which is why now’s the time to double-check for cracks or openings around your barn. Seal these up to keep unwanted guests out. Make it a habit to routinely check for signs of infestations and handle any issues quickly—stopping the problem early is always easier (and less stressful) than waiting.
- Air Flow: Good airflow in your barn is key to keeping your animals comfortable during those hotter days. Walk through and assess if things feel stuffy; if so, consider adding some extra fans. Shopping for used fans can be a budget-friendly option, and they can make a huge difference by keeping your barn cool.
- Floors: To keep spots like milk stalls and feed rooms cleaner, consider placing mats in those areas. They’re easier to hose down and help with maintaining hygiene, especially when dirt and dust tend to accumulate faster in summer.
- Hay Prep: It might seem early to think about winter, but prep work done now will pay off later. Dedicate some time to setting up a proper storage area for your hay. Stocking up on pallets now will keep your future hay off the ground, safe from moisture, and ready for colder months.
Fall Cleaning
With cooler weather settling in, fall is the perfect time to prepare your barn for the months ahead.
- Seal Windows and Doors: As temperatures drop, take a walk around and double-check that all windows and doors are sealed properly. Preventing drafts keeps the barn warm and helps you raise healthier animals.
- Keep Rodents Out: Rodents love sneaking into warm, sheltered spots once the chill sets in. Check for any holes or gaps where they might squeeze in and seal them up.
- Secure Your Feed Storage: Fall is a great time to give your feed room a good clean. Sweep away crumbs and debris, then move all food into secure containers to protect it from pests.
- Freshen Up Bedding Areas: Give the bedding areas and stalls a complete reset. Remove old bedding, sprinkle a layer of lime to help with pests and odors, and then lay down fresh bedding.
Winter Barn Cleaning
Winter is more about checking how things are working and doing preventative measures than cleaning, but it is still an important part of your annual routine.
- Prevent Frozen Pipes: Cold temperatures can be tough on your barn’s plumbing, so it’s important to stay ahead of any issues. Check your pipes regularly for leaks or blockages, and take steps to avoid freezing. Insulate water tanks and hoses to ensure they keep working efficiently, even during chilly days.
- Manage Icy Areas: Slippery barn areas are no fun for anyone. To keep things safe, spread sand or sawdust over any icy patches around the barn. Not only does this help prevent accidents, but it also gives you—and your animals—a more secure footing during your daily comings and goings.
- Maintain Ventilation: Good airflow is just as important in winter as it is during warmer months. Take time to check your barn’s ventilation areas and keep them clear of dust, cobwebs, or debris. Fresh air flow reduces moisture build-up and keeps your barn smelling better while ensuring your animals stay healthy.
Looking for easy, effective ways to clean? These Amish Cleaning Hacks will inspire you to simplify your routine.
Keeping Dust Down in a Dirt Floor Barn
Dealing with dust in a dirt floor barn can be a real hassle—especially when it seems to settle everywhere. Keeping dust down in a dirt floor barn can be a bit of a challenge, but there are several strategies you can try.
- Water the Floor: A quick spray of water can work wonders for controlling dust. By lightly damping the dirt floor, you’ll help settle the dust and keep it from floating up into the air. Just be cautious not to overdo it—no one wants to deal with a muddy mess.
- Sprinkle Some Salt: Sprinkling salt over the dirt to keep dust down. Salt is great at drawing in moisture from the air, which naturally helps keep dust particles in place. It’s an easy solution that works behind the scenes to make your barn less dusty.
- Lay Down Wood Chips or Straw: Covering the dirt floor with materials like wood chips or straw is another practical way to keep the air a little cleaner. It creates a barrier between the dirt and everything above, helping to prevent dust from getting kicked up throughout the day.
- Improve Ventilation: Good airflow is your ally in keeping dust under control. Make sure your barn has proper ventilation to help disperse dust particles quickly, rather than letting them accumulate. It also makes the barn feel fresher and more inviting overall.
- Stick to a Regular Cleaning Routine: A consistent cleaning schedule can make a big difference in a dusty barn. Sweeping and removing debris help limit the amount of dust that can gather in the first place.
Keeping dust down in a dirt floor barn can feel like a constant battle, but combining these methods can really help.
Cleaning Tips
To make your barn cleaning tasks easier, here are a few cleaning tips to keep in mind:
- Use a vacuum for deep cleaning. Vacuum up dust and dirt from hard-to-reach places like window sills, ceilings, and corners.
- Invest in good quality tools and cleaners. Using the right tools will make your job easier and ensure that everything is thoroughly cleaned.
- Wear protective gear when necessary. If you’re using harsh chemicals or dealing with hazardous materials, always make sure to wear the right safety equipment.
- Follow a routine schedule and create a cleaning checklist. By consistently following your schedule, you can help ensure that nothing is forgotten or overlooked.
- Clean from top to bottom. Start by dusting and cleaning any surfaces at the top of the barn, then work your way down until you reach the bottom.
- Use natural and eco-friendly products whenever possible. Doing so will help keep your animals safe and healthy while reducing your environmental impact.
- Add in extra care for special items like carpets or computers. Be sure to follow product instructions to keep these items in top condition.
- Finally, don’t forget to finish up with a good polishing! Give your barn a shining finish by using a damp cloth and a gentle polish for the best results.
These simple tips can help make barn cleaning much easier and more efficient. With regular maintenance, you’ll be able to keep your barn in tip top shape for years to come!
Barn cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right tools and tips, you can keep your barn spotless and looking its best. By following a routine schedule and using the right products, you can make sure that all of your animals are safe and comfortable in their home.
More Homesteading Resources:
- Homesteading on a Budget
- My Top Homesteading Books to Have on Your Homestead
- Planning Projects on the Homestead