Bird Cage Cleaning Hacks You Can Start Using Today

By Diane Burroughs • Published 03/21/20223

Spring is the perfect time to give your pet bird’s home a thorough cleaning! But how do you get started? Here, we’ll provide you with bird cage cleaning hacks and tell you how to get rid of pesky seed moths. We’ll also give you tips and tricks on how to keep your bird’s home looking neat and tidy all year round. So, let’s get started on getting your bird cage spring-ready and keeping it that way!  

Can birds get sick from a dirty cage?

Yes, birds can get sick from a dirty cage. That's why it is so important to know bird cage cleaning hacks. Bird cages should be kept clean and sanitary to prevent disease and illness from occurring. A dirty bird cage can harbor bacteria, parasites, and even viruses that can cause health problems in your pet bird. When droppings, feathers, and food build up in the cage, it can create an ideal environment for these unwanted visitors. In addition, the accumulation of dirt and debris can lead to respiratory issues in birds as well as skin and feather infections. That's why bird cage cleaning hacks are so important. 

Keeping your bird’s cage clean is essential to its overall health and well-being. That means regularly cleaning out the cage, changing the bedding, and wiping down surfaces with an appropriate cleaner. It's also important to regularly check on your bird's food and water dishes to make sure they are clean and free from debris or any residue.  

By following a regular cleaning routine, you can help ensure your pet bird stays healthy and happy. If you're ever unsure about what kind of cleaner to use or how often you should clean your bird's cage, consult your avian veterinarian for advice. 

Bird Cage Cleaning Hack #1: Wash all of the bird cage accessories

It's important to clean all of the bird cage accessories, not just the cage itself. This includes food and water dishes, perches, toys, and any other items that are in the cage.

Start by washing each accessory with a mild soap and warm water. Use a soft cloth or scrub brush to scrub away any dirt or debris. Rinse the items off with warm water and let them air dry. Be sure to wash the water dishes thoroughly to remove any traces of soap residue. If you don't want to hand wash bird cage accessories, just scrap off poop & debris and toss them in the dishwasher.

 After hand washing, sanitize the bird cage accessories with a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 10 parts water. This will help to kill any bacteria or germs that may be lingering on the accessories. Rinse well and let the items air dry or dry them with a clean towel before placing them back in the cage.

Cleaning and sanitizing the bird cage accessories regularly will help keep your pet bird healthy and safe. It's also a good idea to replace any worn-out toys or items with new ones on a regular basis. 

Bird Cage Cleaning Hack #2: Remove bird poop with a BBQ scraper

When it comes to cleaning bird poop, you have a few different options. Depending on the type of bird and the severity of the mess, you may want to choose one over the other.  

The acidity of bird poop can eat through bird cage paint and cause rust, which is why we recommend scraping it off with a BBQ scraper first. Scrape gently so that you don't scratch the paint. Next, choose an option to de-acidify the remaining debris. 

The first option is a water and vinegar solution. This is a simple solution that can be used to clean any kind of mess. Mix one part white vinegar to four parts water and put it in a spray bottle. Spray the areas with the solution and let sit for a few minutes before wiping off with a damp cloth.  

Another option is a commercial bird cage cleaner. These are specially formulated to remove bird droppings and leave your cage looking sparkling clean. It is important to read the instructions on the label as some of these products can be toxic if used improperly.  

Finally, you can use a dedicated bird poop remover. These are designed to quickly break down organic matter and make the cleaning process easier. It is important to always use the product according to the directions and to wear protective gloves when using it.  

No matter which method you choose, it is important to clean up bird poop as soon as possible to prevent diseases from spreading. If you have any questions, always consult with your vet before using any product on your pet birds. 

Bird Cage Cleaning Hack #3: Find out which cleaners are safe for birds

When it comes to cleaning your pet bird’s cage, you want to make sure that you’re using safe, non-toxic products. As birds have sensitive respiratory systems, they can be very sensitive to harsh chemicals and fumes, so you want to be sure that you are only using products that are specifically made for use on pet birds or other animals.

You can use mild dish detergents like Dawn or Ivory to clean the bird's cage and accessories. Just be sure to dilute the soap in warm water and rinse thoroughly after washing so that there are no soapy residue left behind. You can also use vinegar and baking soda to clean bird cages, as both are safe for birds and their environment.  

Another option for cleaning your pet bird’s cage is to use products that are specifically made for birds. These products are often plant-based, non-toxic and safe for birds. Be sure to read the labels carefully, however, as some of these products may contain essential oils which can be harmful to birds if used incorrectly.

Another great way to clean bird cages and accessories is to use natural cleaning solutions such as grapefruit seed extract or apple cider vinegar. To use grapefruit seed extract, mix seven drops of it with one quart of water and use it to clean your bird's cage and accessories. Apple cider vinegar can also be used at a 1:1 ratio with water to help disinfect and deodorize the cage and its contents. Be sure to rinse all surfaces thoroughly after cleaning and let them air dry before returning the bird to its home. 

Bird Cage Cleaning Hack #4: Find safe disinfecting alternatives for bird cages

When it comes to spring cleaning, you may be tempted to reach for your trusty bottle of Clorox. However, when it comes to cleaning bird cages, this is not the best choice. Clorox and other bleach-based cleaners contain chemicals that can be toxic and irritating to birds. Additionally, they can damage the surfaces of cages and other accessories if not diluted properly.  

Instead, opt for a non-toxic cleaner specifically designed for bird cages. There are a few products on the market that will do a great job of keeping your bird's home clean and safe, without the risk of exposing them to harsh chemicals. It is important to make sure the product you choose does not contain ingredients like alcohol, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide. If you decide to use a regular soap and water solution, make sure it is mild, free of fragrance and dye, and never use any abrasive scrubbing agents.  

Before using any cleaning product on your bird's cage, check with your avian veterinarian or a qualified avian specialist for advice. If you have any doubts about the safety of the product or method, don't use it. Taking the time to use the right products will ensure your bird's safety and keep them healthy and happy. 

Bird Cage Cleaning Hack #5: Don't a clean a bird cage with the bird in it

It is possible to clean a bird cage with the bird in it, but it is not always recommended. If you are just wiping down the cage and its surfaces, then it should be fine to have your bird in there. However, if you are using any cleaning agents or anything that could potentially be hazardous to the bird, then it is best to take the bird out of the cage before doing any cleaning. This will ensure that the bird is not exposed to any toxic fumes or chemicals that may come from cleaning products. It is also important to make sure that you thoroughly rinse off any cleaning agents used on the cage before allowing the bird back inside. 

In conclusion...

It is possible to clean a bird cage with the bird in it, but it is not always recommended. If you are just wiping down the cage and its surfaces, then it should be fine to have your bird in there. However, if you are using any cleaning agents or anything that could potentially be hazardous to the bird, then it is best to take the bird out of the cage before doing any cleaning. This will ensure that the bird is not exposed to any toxic fumes or chemicals that may come from cleaning products. It is also important to make sure that you thoroughly rinse off any cleaning agents used on the cage before allowing the bird back inside. 

Cleaning the bird cage once a week is recommended for optimal results, but you may need to do it more frequently depending on your bird's needs. It is important to know what cleaners are safe to use around birds, as some chemicals can be toxic. If you have any doubts, it is best to use natural alternatives such as vinegar or baking soda. Finally, never attempt to clean the cage while the bird is still inside as this can be very dangerous.

Related Posts:

How to clean a bird cage: The do's & don'ts of cleaning a bird cage

Daily, Weekly, Monthly Bird Care Plan

How to get rid of pantry moths & bird seed moths 

Diane Burroughs, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist trained in ABA therapy techniques. She specializes in avian anxiety disorders and is certified in Nutrition For Mental Health. Diane has written a number of bird behavior books and she offers behavior consultations. She's developed a range of UnRuffledRx Science-backed Parrot Wellness Supplies.

Diane's products have been featured in the Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery and at Exoticscon, a conference for exotic pet veterinarians. Her bird collars & supplements are stocked in avian vet clinics and bird stores throughout the US. With over 30 years in the field of behavior, Diane has created thousands of successful individualized behavior plans that help pets thrive.

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