Cleaning Bird feeders:
Birds can quickly become ill from moldy or decomposing seeds and hulls that accumulate on feeder trays. Bird droppings and other contaminants on your feeder, may also spread infectious bird diseases. You should clean your feeders about once every two weeks, and even more often during times of heavy use. For the best results wash your feeder thoroughly in hot, soapy water, and then soak or rinse it in a solution of one part bleach to nine parts water. Make sure to dry the feeder completely before refilling, as to not affect the new feed.
Also, remember to clean the ground below your feeder too, in order to prevent any build-up of birdseed hulls and other waste. Moldy or spoiled food is unhealthy not only for the birds but for your other outside pets. Also, bird food scattered on the ground can attract unwanted rodents, and prevent grass from growing below your feeder. Make sure to spread your feeders apart to prevent overcrowding and that they don not have sharp edges. Injured birds are more susceptible to disease.
Cleaning hummingbird feeders:
It is important to change your hummingbird sugar solution every three to five days to prevent mold and deadly fermentation. The actual hummingbird feeder should be cleaned at least once a week with hot water and a bottle brush. Don't use soap or a detergent. You can also clean this type of feeder by filling it with a dilute bleach solution, then rinsing it very thoroughly. You must NEVER use honey in hummingbird food. It ferments easily and readily grows mold that can be dangerous and even fatal to hummingbirds. Also, do not put any kind of oil around feeding portals to deter bees, as they might contaminate the nectar. If bees, wasps, or ants become a problem, try moving the feeder to a new location.