Neglecting Nooks and Crannies We all like cleaning shortcuts. Why vacuum under the couch when no one will see it? However, cleaning a bird feeder properly isn't easy. Mold and germs can grow in bird feeder crevices, especially in warm, humid conditions.
Using Incorrect Cleaners The items you use to clean your house may not work for bird feeders. Avoid chemicals and commercial cleaners. Bleach is the old standby. It's cheaper than spray cleansers and kills diseases left by prior bird visitation
Year-round cleaning schedule Following a cleaning regimen for vacuuming and changing linens can help. These chores must be done regularly year-round. Bird feeders differ naturally. It is outdoors and vulnerable to temperature and humidity changes.
Resting Old Food Cleaning your feeder is still necessary even if the birds haven't been coming. Old birdseed can grow mold quickly, and hummingbird feeder nectar can ferment in a few days in hot, humid weather.
Not Disinfecting Scoops Or Storage Containers So your bird feeder is clean, dry, and ready to fill. Great! Using an unwashed scoop to scoop birdseed from a dirty container will waste your effort. What germs might you transmit to the feeder with the seed?
Ignoring Area Under Feeder Did you notice that the neighborhood squirrels frequent your house? Your well-landscaped yard is probably not the reason. Due of the wonderful food that falls from seed feeders, squirrels and rats appreciate them as much as birds.
Being Careless with Safety Don't overlook your health and safety when worrying about the local bird population. Cleaning a bird feeder seems safe until you consider bleach, bird droppings, and maybe diseases from ill birds.