Bird Cage Cleaning
Bird cage cleaning is certainly not a fun task, but it doesn't have to be an overly burdensome chore, either. The key is maintaining a regular cleaning schedule, so you are cleaning up a minimal amount of mess each time. The needed frequency of bird cage cleaning will vary depending on the number and size of birds you have, and the length of time it takes will depend on the size and type of cage. Cages with removable bottoms make bird cage cleaning easier, so consider one of these when choosing a cage.
The first step in bird cage cleaning is to move your bird to a safe secure place while you clean. Cleaning around the bird is not only inefficient, it can be hazardous to you and the bird. Remove food dishes, perches, and toys, and set them aside. If your cage has a removable bottom, take it off, and dump all loose droppings into the garbage. If the bottom is not removable, hold the cage over the trash can or lined work area, and gently shake the droppings out.
Rinse the cage thoroughly with hot water, then scrub it with a cleanser that is safe to use around birds; your shower or an outdoor hose area with hot water access make ideal spots for this work. A long-handled brush or scrub pad designated only for bird cage cleaning will help get the cage clean and prevent you from cross-contaminating your cleaning supplies with bird waste. Be sure to rinse the cage completely with very hot water. Dry the cage thoroughly with a clean cloth.
Bird cage cleaning includes cleaning the contents of the cage as well, so be sure to repeat this cleaning process for all perches,food dishes and toys. Use the same bird-friendly cleanser that you used for the cage itself, and be sure to rinse each item thoroughly after scrubbing.
Once the cage and all the accesories are cleaned, you can return the bird to his home. If you have especially hard-to-remove droppings, try soaking the cage and accesories in hot, soapy water before scrubbing. You may also need to use products specially-designed for removing dried or caked on bird droppings. Spreading several layers of clean paper on the bottom of the cage may help extend the length of time between bird cage cleanings. As one layer becomes soiled, remove it to expose a fresh layer. Be sure to wash food and water dishes every day or two, regardless of how often you do a complete bird cage cleaning.
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