Keep Bird Baths Algae Free With Help From A Kitchen Staple

If you have a bird bath in your yard, keeping it clean can be a never-ending task. After all, birds do enjoy a quick splash. But dirty, algae-filled water not only looks unappealing, it can also be unsafe for the birds. Left untreated, the algae will quickly coat the water's surface, turning the water green and resulting in a less inviting environment for wildlife. The good news is that a common kitchen staple, apple cider vinegar (ACV), can help keep your bird bath fresh and algae free without causing any harm to the birds.

Apple cider vinegar works because it changes the pH balance in the water, resulting in a less friendly environment for algae to grow in. For the most part, algae thrives in still sitting water that offers the right nutrients. Additionally, when it is diluted correctly, which is essentially one part vinegar to nine parts of water, the diluted apple cider vinegar remains safe for birds to drink and bathe in. Bear in mind that not all apple cider vinegar brands are the same and some should be avoided. Typically, organic ACV is best to avoid any unwanted chemicals or pesticides.

Owning a bird bath is a nice aesthetic that comes with a bit of regular upkeep. Fortunately, it doesn't take much effort and once you establish a routine, it becomes that much easier.

Your bird bath is one of the most stylish pieces of garden decor for you and visiting backyard birds, so giving it a little extra attention can go a long way. Forming a simple routine is all it takes to ensure your bird bath is clean and ready for birds to visit. Your main goal for forming this routine is to refresh the water every one week or so. During the hot summer months, consider changing the water every few days. But in general, if algae is showing, it's a good sign it's time for a rinse.

When cleaning your bird bath, the easiest way is mixing one part apple cider vinegar with nine parts of water. After you have drained the bath, use a brush to scrub the basin with the vinegar mix and remove the algae. For the most part, the acidic solution will change the pH balance enough to offset the environment and stop algae from thriving. Once you're finished scrubbing, rinse the bath thoroughly with fresh water to ensure that no vinegar remains. While diluted ACV is generally safe, when it is left undiluted in bath water, it can strip the oils from feathers that birds need for waterproofing. Nevertheless, when handled properly, this is just one of many ways to use vinegar to clean your home.