Some newbie birdwatchers are afraid that cleaning their window birdfeeder will be a terrible chore. Think again! Follow these tips to accomplish a top-to-bottom window bird feeder cleaning in fifteen minutes or less.
Step 1: Check Your Bird Feeder:
Weather, rot, squirrels and even raccoons can wreck havoc on your window birdfeeder. Take a quick minute to double check that there are no areas in need of repair.
Step 2. Dump the Old Seed:
The old, clumpy birdseed can go into either your garbage or compost bin. One trick is to keep an air-tight compost bucket near your bird feeder. You should be able to find one at Walmart for about $7.
Step 3. Quick Rinse:
Using either a hose or your kitchen sink, give your window birdfeeder a quick rinse. If you prefer washing by hand, create a solution that is 9 parts hot water (not boiling), and one part bleach.
Step 4: Clean the Surroundings:
While the window bird feeder is drying, quickly tackle whichever step is most applicable for your home’s setup:
-If your window birdfeeder hangs over a walkway, windowsill, or back porch:
wipe down the windowsill, additional hardware, or patio furniture where birds likely perched.
-If your window birdfeeder hangs over a flowerbed or grass:
Rake or clean the ground below the feeder to remove any hulls or droppings.
But no matter where your window bird feeder is located, this is the time to clean any other components which could be sanitized in addition to the main chamber already in the wash.
Step 5: Set The Pieces Out to Dry:
Set out the birdfeeder to dry while you eat pie, watch cartoons, or otherwise savor your mostly-completed accomplishment.
Alternatively, you can go ahead and just wipe any remaining moisture off.
Step 6: Add Seed:
Step 7: Hang ‘Er Up!
Viola! Your window bird feeder is squeaky clean and ready for business!
Bonus: Go ahead and mark your calendar for a “bird feeder cleaning” two weeks out. A window bird feeder should be cleaned every 2-4 weeks for optimal results.
