How to Care for Birdbath Water

Birdbaths are yard decorations that are enjoyed by many nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. They act as a place for birds to rest and clean themselves. If the water inside the birdbath is dirty, the birds could get sick or won't visit the birdbath. Caring for the water properly will prevent this from happening.

• Use a net to remove debris such as droppings, dirt, feathers and bugs from the water. Swipe the net through the water to pick up these items, and flip the net over the side to dispose of them. Do this every day or every other day to keep the birdbath water clean.


• Remove algae and mold by draining the water and scrubbing the surface of the birdbath with bleach or an all-purpose cleaner. Allow the cleaner to sit in the birdbath for 30 minutes before scrubbing it with the brush. Rinse the birdbath before filling it up with fresh water.


• Change the water often. Birds want to drink, bathe and play in clean water only. When water has been in the bath for a long time, it absorbs the smells of other birds, dirt and debris. This might keep birds away. Dump out the old water, and replace it with clean water at least once a week.


• Keep the birdbath full. When water levels drop, the water is more likely to attract mosquitos that breed and lay eggs in small amounts of water. As the water evaporates, be sure to refill it. This prevents mold and algae from growing in the birdbath.