How to Sanitize Hummingbird Feeders

Wash hummingbird feeders once a week.

Feeding hummingbirds from brightly-colored feeders provides hours of enjoyment, as these miniatures birds return to feed every 15 to 20 minutes throughout the day. Hummingbird feeders come in a variety of style and sizes from miniature feeders that hold less than a cup of nectar to large community feeders that hold 2 quarts or more. All feeders must be kept clean and sanitized to prevent disease that could risk the health of hummingbirds.

Things You'll Need

• Stiff bristled brush (bottle/nipple)
• Bleach

Instructions

1. Replace old nectar every 3 to 5 days to prevent spoilage. This is especially important during hot summer days because the nectar spoils quickly in summer sun.

2. Wash the feeder thoroughly once a week, or any time you notice the presence of black mold in the feeder.

3. Scrub the inside of the feeder with hot water using a stiff-bristled brush. A bottle or nipple brush works well to get into small areas. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology cautions against using soap or detergent when washing the feeder, as their residue could harm the hummingbirds.

4. Sanitize the feeder in a solution of household bleach and water. Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of bleach to a quart of water. Immerse the feeder in the solution to cover all parts and allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry to remove any bleach residue.

5. Refill the feeder with fresh nectar and hang in a sheltered location out of direct sunlight.

Tips & Warnings

• There is no need to add red food coloring to the hummingbird food; the bright colors of the feeder will attract the birds, and the red dye may adversely affect the birds.

References

• Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Maintaining Hummingbird Feeders

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish