Tip 1 - Remember to remove bird from cage to fun play area with lots of toys and treats to keep your bird occupied before beginning cleaning project. As many of us know, some birds simply do not like anyone messing with their stuff. So keeping them occupied elsewhere, hopefully, may keep them from noticing what you are up to.
Tip 1 Rule: Always respect the bird and his or her personal "things" if you value fingers and such.
Tip 2 - Remove all bird toys and perches from cage prior to cleaning. This is a great time to thoroughly inspect all toys for wear and tear and throw out anything that might not still be safe. Check for strings, shredded cloth or rope, bird poop that can't be cleaned away, chewed wood that has any sharp places, and so on.
Tip 2 Rule: When in doubt, throw it out.
Tip 3 - Wooden and trimming perches such as concrete, sand, and such, can be soaked in a sink or bathtub in gentle dish detergent and water. Be sure to thoroughly rinse and air dry before returning to your bird's cage or play area. Perches made of Rope and Sisal, or other such materials, can be brushed with a stiff bristle brush to help remove dried on poop, or food. Although some people may gasp, both wood and rope or cotton perches can be run through a gentle dishwasher cycle after brushing to better clean them. Again, make sure they are completely dry before returning to your bird. Throw out any perches that look like they might trap tiny toes or toenails, or wood that looks splintered and possibly a foot hazard. It may be time to add new perches and throw out the old, using different sizes for foot exercise.
Tip 3 Rule: Perches that are not completely dry, can cause foot problems so taking the time to be sure they are dry is well worth it.
Tip 4 - Cages and play areas can be washed with vinegar and water, or a mixture of gentle dish detergent and water. Always rinse well after cleaning. Our bird store also carries products specifically made to clean cages, perches, and toys, that are bird safe.
NEVER use cleaners such as Mr. Clean, Lysol, Soft Scrub, Windex, 409, etc. to clean anything your bird can come in contact with. Almost all household cleaners can be deadly to your bird. Bleach is not recommended for cleaning as it is toxic if inhaled by your bird (or you for that matter), is very caustic to cage finishes, and can burn skin if splashed accidentally.
If your cage is small enough, try putting it in the shower or bathtub for cleaning. Be sure to put down a towel or bath mat to prevent scratching tub or shower finishes.
You can also roll larger cages outdoors and use a garden hose to clean. If using a power washer, you will probably want to set to a low-pressure setting to prevent paint damage to cage.
Tip 4 Rule: Remember birds have very sensitive respiratory systems so if your cleaner smells strong to you, then is more than likely is not a good idea to use it around your bird.
Tip 5 - Once everything is nice and clean, add a couple of new toys as a reward before returning your bird to his or her home. After all, your bird is going to know you have been messing with his or her stuff no matter how stealthy you think you have been, and new toys may help soothe things over for you.
Tip 5 Rule: Now enjoy your Spring and your Bird's new clean area.
Check out plant sales sponsored by your local Master Gardeners Association and help support local volunteer gardeners and their special projects in your area.
Check out our Pinterest Board: Safe Plants and Edible Flowers for Birds with lots of photos of safe plants and flowers. Also be sure to visit our website at: Safe Plants and Trees for Birds for a more complete list of plants and trees that are considered safe for parrots.
