Doing Some Spring Cleaning? Keep These Bird-Safe Cleaning Tips in Mind

As the season of renewal, spring is the perfect time to clean and declutter your home. If you have a pet bird, however, it’s important to take extra care to use only bird-safe cleaning practices. Many common cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to birds, and even strong fumes from otherwise safe products can pose a risk. Read on for some tips for tackling your spring cleaning while keeping your bird safe and your home fresh.

Choose Bird-Safe Cleaning Products

Many household cleaners contain harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, or artificial fragrances that can be toxic to birds. Instead, opt for products such as:

• White vinegar and water, which are great for cleaning cages and surfaces
• Baking soda – effective for scrubbing tough spots
• Unscented, bird-safe disinfectants
• Steam cleaning – a chemical-free way to sanitize

Always check labels for pet safety and avoid aerosol sprays, which can linger in the air and be harmful to your bird’s sensitive respiratory system.

Deep Clean the Bird Cage

While it’s important to wipe down your bird’s cage on a daily basis, deep-cleaning it periodically is crucial for removing bacteria and grime buildup. Here are a few key steps for cleaning the cage safely:

• Remove your bird and place them in a safe, ventilated area
• Wash all perches, toys, food bowls, and cage bars with warm, soapy water (use a bird-safe soap)
• Disinfect with diluted white vinegar or a vet-approved bird-safe cleaner
• Rinse thoroughly and allow everything to dry completely before putting it back

Refresh Your Bird’s Perches and Toys

Check all perches and toys for wear and tear. Replace frayed rope perches, damaged toys, or anything with loose parts that could be a choking hazard, and rotate toys to keep things interesting for your bird. Additionally, soak wooden perches in vinegar and water to remove dirt and bacteria.

Improve Air Quality

Birds have delicate respiratory systems, so fresh, clean air is crucial. Keep these tips in mind:

• Open windows for ventilation—but ensure that screens or safety precautions are in place
• Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce dust and dander
• Skip scented candles, air fresheners, and incense, all of which may be harmful to birds

Wash Bird Bedding and Accessories

If your bird’s cage has a fabric cover or cozy items, wash them regularly using unscented, hypoallergenic detergent, hot water to remove bacteria and mites, and a thorough rinse to ensure that no residue remains.

Safe Floor and Surface Cleaning

Since birds typically explore beyond their cages, ensure that all surfaces they may come into contact with are cleaned using pet-safe methods. For instance:

• Mop floors with diluted vinegar or a bird-safe cleaner
• Wipe down furniture with a damp cloth to remove dust and dander
• Vacuum frequently, especially around the cage, to minimize feather and food debris

Keep Your Bird Safe During Cleaning

Even bird-safe products can be irritating if used in high concentrations. Therefore, it’s best to move your bird to another room while deep cleaning and allow time for any cleaned surfaces to dry and air out. Try to avoid sudden changes, as birds can be sensitive to rearranged environments.

A clean home means a healthier space for both you and your bird. With a little extra care, you can refresh your home for spring while keeping your feathered friend safe. Looking for bird-safe cleaning supplies and other products for your pets? Find a trusted pet retailer near you with our locator tool!