Look After Your Bird Baths

The easiest way to clean a birdbath is to ensure it doesn’t get dirty. While all birdbaths will eventually need to be cleaned, there are steps that can be taken to minimize the need for frequent cleanings.

  • When refilling the birdbath, dump out the stagnant water instead of just adding more.
  • Position the birdbath away from feeders so spilled seed will not land in the water.
  • Choose a shady spot for the birdbath to minimize algae growth and slow evaporation.
  • Position the birdbath where it will not be clogged by grass clippings, falling leaves and other debris.

No matter how carefully a birdbath is maintained, however, it will still need regular cleanings.

Materials needed…

  • Water
  • Scrub brush – appropriate for birdbath construction
  • Rubber gloves
  • Chlorine bleach or vinegar
  • Note: Always wear rubber gloves when cleaning a birdbath to avoid contamination from fecal matter in the water or on the surface of the birdbath.
  • Dump out any old, stagnant water.
  • Remove any large deposits of spilled seed, feces, debris or other contaminants.
  • Use a solution of one part chlorine bleach to nine parts water to scrub the birdbath thoroughly. (NOTE: on bird baths with a decorative stain finish test the solution on a small spot first to make sure the solution does not discolor the finish. A weak solution of vingar may be a better choice on stain finished bird baths, ot a commercial bird bath cleaner available at Wild Bird Habitat)
  • Scrub the basin, lip, and any area of the birdbath where the birds can land, perch, drink or bathe. For extremely dirty birdbaths, it may be necessary to allow the bleach solution to soak for several minutes, but monitor or cover the bath during that time to be sure no birds drink.
  • Rinse the birdbath thoroughly with running water until there is no persistent foaming.
  • Allow the birdbath to dry completely. This is a good opportunity to clean the area around the bird
  • Refill the bath with fresh, clean water.

Tips for Cleaning Birdbaths

A clean, filled birdbath can be an oasis for many species of birds. For the best results when cleaning the birdbath…

  • Thoroughly clean the birdbath 2-3 times per week depending on how many birds are using it.
  • Use a jet of water to rinse out the birdbath between regular cleanings.
  • Clean the entire birdbath fixture at regular intervals.
  • Consider adding enzymes approved for wildlife consumption (available at Wild Bird Habitat) to help keep the bath clean and minimize algae growth.
  • Keep the birdbath full to avoid concentrating pollutants in smaller amounts of water.
  • Consider adding a dripper to keep the bath replenished with fresh water during times of high usage and evaporation.

Bird Bath Protector

Formulated for outdoor birdbaths that contain approximately two gallons of water or less. Birdbath protector is an 8 oz. bottle. The cap on the bottle will treat 1/2 to 2 gallons of water. Prevents stains, organic contaminants, mineral deposits. Keeps water clean and clear naturally. Safe for wildlife and pets that may drink from birdbath. Non-toxic.

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