How To Clean And Disinfect An Aluminum Horse Trailer
If you're a horse owner, one of your least favorite chores is most likely cleaning out your animals' trailer. Although it may not be a fun activity to do, it's as essential as periodically cleaning the horse barn. The good news is that there are several ways that you can make this unpleasant task easier and less time consuming.
Benefits
Not only will regularly cleaning and disinfecting your horse trailer protect your beloved animals' health, it will help you get the most life out of the hauling equipment. Dirt, grime and debris, such as horse excrement, can cause the floor of the trailer to weak and rot over time, which can be a hazard for your animals.
Depending on how much use your horse trailer gets, it may need to be cleaned at least once every 90 days. Keeping a regular maintenance schedule may even reduce the amount of time and effort it takes to clean the trailer, as it will reduce stubborn build-up.
Guide for deep-cleaning and disinfecting your horse trailer:
1. Try to clean out the trailer on a sunny day, so that it dries faster. Also, the extra light will help you you see dark and hard-to-reach corners of the trailer better.
2. Before cleaning the trailer, take out any removable parts, such as rubber mats. It's also important to remove all hay, bedding, food and any other horse care items so that you can clean the entire interior without any obstructions. Use a broom to sweep out any remaining dirt and debris.
3. Next, rinse out the trailer using a hose with a spray nozzle attachment or a power washer set to "low." In a large bucket, make a cleaning solution using water and a disinfectant soap recommended for use on aluminum. You can also use a germ-killing solution of one part bleach to 10 parts water. Leave the trailer doors open while cleaning for proper ventilation.
4. Use a stiff-bristled brush to gently work the soapy solution over the walls of the trailer, concentrating on areas with stubborn build-up. Use a long-handled sponge mop to clean the floor and to reach the ceiling and corners. Be sure to wash the removable items as well. Allow the solution to sit on the surfaces for 10 minutes for extra cleaning and disinfecting power.
5. Rinse the cleaner off using either the hose or pressure washer set to "low." Leave the trailer doors open until the interior is completely dry.