A dirty bird bath is unhealthy for the birds that visit it.
Bird baths provide an important source of water for drinking and bathing for birds, especially in urban settings. If the water is dirty, however, it can cause a number of problems, such as spreading disease, growing unsightly algae and serving as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. To prevent these problems, water should be changed frequently, at least every other day, and the bath bowl cleaned once a week. Does this Spark an idea?
Vinegar
Vinegar is the safest choice, both for birds, the environment and any plants near the bird bath. It is acidic enough to break down dirt and algae, but not so strong that it will cause harm. On the other hand, it does not kill bacteria or help prevent the spread of disease by disinfecting the bird bath. To use vinegar, mix 9 parts water with 1 part white vinegar. After emptying and rinsing the bird bath, fill it part way with the vinegar mixture and scrub thoroughly. Rinse well, making sure that no residue is left behind.
Mild Detergent
A mild detergent, such as dish soap or laundry detergent, is excellent for cleaning a heavily soiled bird bath. A detergent with antibacterial properties also will disinfect the bath bowl. The detergent must be rinsed away completely, however, or birds may refuse to use the bath after it is refilled. Some detergents also can be harmful to nearby plants. Add 1/2 tsp. of dish soap or 1 tbsp. of laundry detergent to 1 gallon of water and pour it in the bird bath after you've emptied and rinsed it. Scrub thoroughly and rinse several times. Fill the bath and empty it, then refill it for use.
Bleach
Bleach is especially effective at removing algae. It also kills nearly every type of virus and bacteria that could spread disease or illness among birds. The downside to using bleach is that it can make birds sick if not completely rinsed away. It also can kill or damage plants. Despite the potential problems, bleach is recommended as a cleaning agent for bird baths by a number of university extension offices. For cleaning a bird bath, mix 1 part bleach with 9 parts water. Empty and rinse the bird bath and then fill it about halfway with the bleach mixture. Wearing gloves, scrub away the dirt and algae. Rinse the bath bowl several times before filling it. Let the water sit for a few minutes, then empty it, rinse again and re-fill it for use.
Other Tools
In addition to a cleaning agent, such as vinegar, detergent or bleach, only a few simple tools are needed for cleaning a bird bath. A nylon scrub brush will clear away algae and dirt without scratching up the surface. Use a cleaning sponge to wipe away any spots missed by the scrub brush or to reach tight corners or edges that the brush can't clean. Gloves will protect your hands from the cleaner and from coming in contact with the algae. A hose sprayer attachment is necessary to first rinse away dirt after emptying the bird bath and then to completely rinse the bowl after cleaning.
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