5 Rules for Disinfecting Bird Feeders With Bleach

Use a 1-to-9 bleach-to-water solution Soak the feeder for a few minutes in this mix. Plain soap and water won’t kill salmonella, conjunctivitis, or avian pox.

Scrub with a brush after soaking Agitation removes stuck-on debris and pathogens. Rinse thoroughly afterward.

Let the feeder dry completely before refilling Wet feed breeds mold. Drying is not optional.

Clean every two weeks during spring Spring migration turns feeders into disease superhighways. Stick to the schedule.

Clean every refill if you see sick birds Symptoms include fluffed feathers, lethargy, and swollen eyes. Resume normal cleaning only after birds recover.