Running a barn involves a multitude of daily chores, but with a few strategic changes, you can make these tasks more efficient and manageable. Here are some practical timesavers that can help streamline your barn chores, allowing you more time to enjoy with your horses.

1. Leaf Blowers for Cleaning

Using a leaf blower to clean the barn aisle and other dusty areas is a game-changer. It quickly and effectively removes dust, hay, and other debris, leaving your barn looking neat and tidy in a fraction of the time it would take to sweep manually.

2. Trash Cans and Muck Buckets for Haynets

Filling haynets can be cumbersome, but using a trash can or muck bucket to hold the haynet open makes this task much easier. Simply place the haynet inside the container, fill it with hay, and then pull the net out—no more struggling to keep the net open.

3. Expandable Hoses

Expandable hoses are lighter and easier to maneuver than traditional hoses. They expand when filled with water and contract when empty, making storage simple. Additionally, these hoses are less likely to freeze in the winter, which can save you time and hassle during cold months.

4. Trunk with Wheels

Place a trunk with wheels next to any turnout areas to store important items you regularly use, such as grooming supplies, fly spray, and blankets. This reduces the need to make multiple trips back to the barn, saving time and effort.

5. Ample Turnout

Providing ample turnout for your horses not only creates happier, healthier animals but also reduces stall cleanup time. With our horses turned out 24/7 and provided with good shelter, we find that there’s significantly less stall mucking to do.

6. Wide Gates

When setting up your property, ensure that all gates are wide enough to accommodate a truck, trailer, or tractor. This allows easy access to all areas for deliveries, maintenance, and emergency situations, reducing the need for manual hauling and additional work.

7. Designated First Aid Areas

Having a designated area for a first aid kit for both humans and horses is essential. This ensures that you can quickly and efficiently address any emergencies without having to search for supplies. Keep the kit well-stocked and easily accessible.

8. Slow Feeders

Slow-feed hay nets and feeders reduce hay waste and help extend feeding times, meaning fewer trips to refill hay throughout the day. Plus, they help keep horses busy and promote better digestion.

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Implementing these timesaving strategies can make a significant difference in the efficiency of your barn chores. Not only will you save time and energy, but you’ll also create a more organized and functional environment for both you and your horses. If you have any time saving tips be sure to drop them in the comments!