A disinfection mat lies at the entrance to a stable or coop and holds a layer of disinfectant liquid, so everyone who comes in steps through it with their soles. Together with a boot cleaner, overshoes and a clear sign, such a mat is one part of your hygiene measures. This is the place for those items, for poultry, cattle, sheep and horses.
Which size mat
| Mat | Where it fits |
|---|---|
| 55 x 45 x 3 cm (Excellent) | door of a chicken coop or small shed |
| 85 x 60 x 3.5 cm and 90 x 60 x 4 cm (Gobel) | standard stable door, one person at a time |
| 180 x 90 x 4 cm (Gobel) | wide entrance or passage where you cannot step around it |
Choose a mat that covers the full width of the passage rather than a smaller one that people step next to. The mats have a permeable top and a closed bottom and sides, so the liquid stays in the mat.
Clean first, then disinfect
A disinfectant works poorly on boots with manure or mud on them. That is why a good entrance starts with cleaning. The Vink stainless steel boot cleaner has three brushes, sprayers at the sides and bottom and a scraper for coarse dirt. Only then do you step over the mat. Use a product that is suitable for boots and mats and follow the label for concentration and replacement. Use biocides safely. Always read the label and product information before use. Give visitors without their own boots disposable overshoes; they come 50 pairs to a box.
Points to note
A mat gets dirty and is diluted by rain. So replace the liquid regularly and preferably place the mat under cover. A sign such as 'No entry, disinfect first' or 'Workwear required' makes the rule visible to visitors. A mat does not replace other hygiene steps, such as clean equipment and separate areas.
You will find more for the stable in stable cleaning and disinfection and disinfecting stables. For the chicken coop itself: bedding and coop hygiene. Gloves and clothing are in protective gear.
Frequently asked questions
What do I put in a disinfection mat?
A disinfectant that is suitable for boots or mats, at the dilution stated on the label.
How often do I replace the liquid?
As soon as the mat is visibly dirty or diluted by rain. Also follow the period stated on the product label.
Do I need a boot cleaner if I have a mat?
It does help: with a boot cleaner you first remove manure and mud from the sole, after which the mat does its job better.
Which mat suits a chicken coop?
For a narrow coop door, the 55 x 45 cm mat is handy; for a wider passage, choose 90 x 60 cm.