It is a good practice to put some potassium permanganate in a porcelain dish and add a little formaldehyde after first making sure that all cracks are sealed and the doors and windows are closed. The poisonous gases given off by this mixture kill all germs and parasites and help prevent any infestation from last year's birds. One cannot be too careful about sanitation. There are so many diseases which attack baby chicks, that it is imperative to have totally sanitary quarters for them. One breeder also suggested painting the brooder house every year, using the cheapest paint available, after the yearly thorough cleaning.
Painting helps fill up the cracks besides acting as a disinfectant.
All equipment-troughs, water fountains, and hoppers should also be thoroughly scrubbed and disinfected with a good commercial product. For those who choose to purchase chicks, several points should be kept in mind. Buy only good chicks from a reliable breeder or hatchery. Be prepared to spend considerable time in brooding these chicks, and have everything ready before their arrival. Do not try to skimp and save on feed, for a good sound, properly balanced and commercially mixed feed will give the chicks a good start and induce proper growth.