Birds with dark-colored plumages such as Barred Plymouth Rock chickens, Rouen ducks, and Bronze turkeys, very seldom need to be washed unless their plumage becomes severely soiled. Learning to wash birds is not difficult, but it is best to practice on some birds not intended for exhibit. It is best to wash birds the day or night before they are to be exhibited or taken to the show. You should have cages to place the birds in after they are washed. If the birds will be returned to floor pens after they are washed, it is important to place plenty of clean straw or shavings on the floor to keep the birds from becoming soiled again.
Some detergents make feathers dry and brittle.
Recommended detergents include Lux flakes, Ivory, Cheer or Casteel soap. The multi-tub method requires four tubs for white birds and three for all others. To save strain on your back, it is best to place them on boxes or benches. The first tub is used for the actual cleaning of the birds. Soap or detergent is added to the tub.