How Often You Should Clean A Hummingbird Feeder For Always-Fresh Nectar

Hanging a hummingbird feeder, preferably with a homemade recipe for hummingbird nectar, is just one of many ways you can help support these widely popular birds. While only a few types of species are technically endangered, the effects on their habitats from human construction and climate change are undoubtedly impacting these small, but mighty hummingbirds. You can help provide some of their basic needs with a feeder, but this will only be of benefit if you clean it regularly, so the nectar stays fresh.

The exact timeline for changing a hummingbird feeder depends on the time of year, as well as your region. As a general rule of thumb, the International Hummingbird Society recommends changing the nectar once every three to five days. However, you may need to change the nectar more often if temperatures reach above 90 degrees Fahrenheit in your area, or if the nectar starts to look cloudy — whichever occurs first. Any discoloration due to mildew or mold is another sign you need to clean your hummingbird feeder right away.

Cleaning a hummingbird feeder doesn't require any special commercial products. In fact, you can safely clean your hummingbird feeders with ingredients you likely already have in your home. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, it is safe to clean the feeder out with hot water, but you should not use any dish soaps or detergents. Another option is to use diluted white vinegar to clean mold or mildew. Finally, the International Hummingbird Society recommends monthly bleach soaks in a mixture of 1 TBSP bleach with 4 cups of water. When cleaning a hummingbird feeder with vinegar or bleach, you will need to rinse it out with warm water to make sure you've completely gotten rid of the solution. The best way to tell is with the smell test.

In addition to providing a clean source of nectar for hummingbirds that visit your backyard or garden, you might consider other supportive measures. These include providing sources of drinking water, shelter, and a variety of flowers that hummingbirds love. Clean sources of food and water will help these special birds know that your home is a safe space for them to frequent.