Experts say that hummingbirds will starve rather than consume spoiled feeder syrup, so a dirty feeder isn’t likely to cause harm. But it may cost you the pleasure of their company if they abandon your yard for more reliable food sources elsewhere. So if you would like to enjoy your hummingbirds all summer long, follow these simple directions…
Every filling, flush the feeder with hot tap water; a bottle brush can be very helpful. Do not use soap – hummers don’t like the taste. Visually inspect the entire feeder for black mold; a bleach soak is the best way to remove mold. Discard any unconsumed sugar water. If the birds are not emptying your feeder between cleanings, it’s unnecessary and wasteful to fill it completely. If the sugar solution in your feeder turns cloudy, it’s spoiled and needs to be replaced. This can happen in as little as two days.
At least once a month, clean the feeder thoroughly with a solution of 1/4 cup bleach to one gallon of water or a 50/50 solution of hot water and white vinegar. Soak the feeder in this solution for one hour and then clean with a bottle brush. Rinse well with running water and refill.
Which Brushes Should You Use? The Perky Pet Feeder Cleaning Mop is made from a no-scratch foam for regular cleaning of bottles to prevent build-up. Droll Yankees Perfect Little Brush is just the right size to clean Hummingbird ports. Droll Yankees Hummer Plus Brush is a 9” angled brush with soft bristles that won’t scratch. The Microban antimicrobial technology fights the growth of damaging bacteria, mold, and mildew.
