How to Clean a Stall with a DuraFork
A simple guide for horse owners and barn workers
The original Little Giant® DuraFork stall fork is a fixture in stables and barns everywhere. It's manufactured from extra-strong 100 percent polycarbonate to provide super strength and flexibility. Designed for long-lasting use around the farm, ranch, and home.
Cleaning a stall is an essential task for anyone who owns or works with horses. A clean stall provides a comfortable and healthy environment for your horse and reduces the risk of diseases and pests. A DuraFork is a tool that helps you remove manure and bedding from the stall floor. Here are some steps to follow when cleaning a stall.
Step 1: Prepare the stall
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Before you start cleaning, make sure your horse is safely secured outside the stall. You don't want your horse to get in the way or step on the stall fork.
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Gather your supplies, such as a stall fork, a wheelbarrow, a broom, and a rake. You may also need a shovel, a bucket, and a hose, depending on the type of bedding and flooring you have.
Step 2: Remove the manure and wet bedding
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Using the stall fork, scoop up the manure and any wet or soiled bedding from the stall floor. Shake the fork slightly to let any clean bedding fall through the tines.
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Transfer the waste to the wheelbarrow and empty it in a designated area. You may need to make several trips depending on the size of the stall and the amount of waste.
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Check the corners and edges of the stall for any hidden manure or wet spots. Use the broom or the rake to sweep or rake any loose material to the center of the stall.
Step 3: Refresh the bedding
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If you use shavings, straw, or sawdust as bedding, you may need to add some fresh bedding to the stall. Use the shovel or the bucket to spread the new bedding evenly over the stall floor.
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If you use rubber mats, wood pellets, or paper as bedding, you may not need to add any new bedding. However, you may need to hose down the mats or fluff up the pellets or paper to keep them clean and dry.
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Make sure the bedding is at least a few inches thick to provide cushioning and insulation for your horse. Avoid overfilling the stall with too much bedding, as this can create dust and waste.
Step 4: Finish the cleaning
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After you have refreshed the bedding, you can make the stall more inviting for your horse. You can create a small depression in the center of the stall for your horse to lie down, or pile up some bedding in the corners for your horse to rest its head.
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You can also check the water bucket and the hay rack for any dirt or debris, and refill them if needed. You can also add some toys or treats to the stall to keep your horse entertained.
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Finally, you can return your horse to the stall and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Your horse will appreciate your efforts and reward you with a happy and healthy attitude.
For more information about the DuraFork visit www.miller-mfg.com.