How to Clean Birdfeeders

To reduce the potential spread of diseases, bird feeders should be cleaned at least once every two weeks. However, some feeders, such as hummingbird feeders, will require cleaning at least twice per week to prevent mold and bacterial growth on the food.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Water Bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) Bottle brush (for tube feeders) Scrub brush Sponge Rag 1 2-inch putty knife Waste sack (newspaper bag or bread wrapper)
Water
Bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water)
Bottle brush (for tube feeders)
Scrub brush
Sponge
Rag
1 2-inch putty knife
Waste sack (newspaper bag or bread wrapper)

Step 1

Remove any seed hulls, leftover seed and droppings. Old bird feed may contain pathogens that could contaminate any new feed placed in the feeder. For example, birds infected with trichomoniasis have difficulty swallowing and drop contaminated seeds which in turn infect other birds. Any seeds on the ground should be raked up and removed as well.

Step 2

Scrub with a bleach solution to disinfect the bird feeder. Make the bleach solution by mixing 1 part bleach with 9 parts water. Vinegar may be substituted to prevent bleaching of wooden feeders. Ensure any surface that the bird or feed may come in contact with is cleaned.

Step 3

Rinse thoroughly to remove any cleaning solution.

Step 4

Dry completely. Wipe any excess water with a clean rag and allow to completely before refilling with bird feed.

Resources

Article Written By David Chandler

David Chandler has been a freelance writer since 2006 whose work has appeared in various print and online publications. A former reconnaissance Marine, he is an active hiker, diver, kayaker, sailor and angler. He has traveled extensively and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida where he was educated in international studies and microbiology.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...