Because sometimes the best gear is already in your laundry pile. 👕
Cleaning the chicken coop is not glamorous, but it is part of the homestead routine. It goes right alongside gathering eggs and keeping an eye on that one suspicious rooster. If you have ever stepped into the coop on a dry day, you know how quickly dust can rise and coat everything, including your lungs. I always wear a dust mask, but this time I was in a pinch and needed an alternative.
This week, I needed a dust mask and did not have one. In search of an alternative, I scoured the house to find something to substitute. What I found was a pile of old kid clothes destined for the rag bag.
Enter: the humble, worn-out toddler tee. This old kid’s shirt made a great dust mask substitute. (And please don’t mind my oh-so-glamorous hairstyle – I am about to clean a chicken coop after all. 💅)
🧼 How to Make a Dust Mask from a Kid’s Shirt
This kid’s shirt dust mask is definitely not Pinterest-perfect. This is real life and ready-to-go. No sewing necessary.
Here is what I did:
- Grabbed one of my son’s outgrown cotton T-shirts (bonus points for stains).
- Pulled it over my head like a scarf, then up over my nose and mouth.
- Tucked the collar over my ears for a snug fit. (No ear loops? No problem.)
And just like that, I had an instant dust barrier. I added a pair of sunglasses to keep the dust out of my eyes, which made the whole setup feel almost intentional. Sure, it is not OSHA-approved, but it kept the coop dander out of my face and let me breathe much easier.
Disclaimer: This setup is no N95, and I doubt it keeps out germs. But for the dusty chore I was doing, it was certainly better than nothing.
👕 Why This Works
- Cotton is breathable yet still filters most of the floating feathers, fluff, and straw particles.
- T-shirts are stretchy, so they provide a comfortable fit without pinching.
- It is reusable. Hose it off, toss it in the laundry, and use it again.
🐣 Bonus Tip
This method also works well when stirring compost, mowing dry fields, or handling dusty hay.
If you are looking for ways to clean your chicken coop without store-bought masks or expensive gear, this easy DIY hack can help you breathe easier and save money.
🌾 Real Homesteading Is About Resourcefulness
You do not need expensive equipment to do the job well. Often, all you need is something clean-ish, soft, and stretchy.
And those stained, worn-out shirts that are too rough for Goodwill donations? They are perfect for this task.
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