What materials are best for outdoor bird baths?
For stability and long-lasting use outside, consider stone, concrete, or frost-resistant ceramic. Resin or recycled plastic baths are lighter and easier to move and clean, but they may need anchoring or weighting in windy spots. Metal designs are sturdy and long lasting when they have a stable base. You can quickly clean smooth glazed or glass basins, but a textured bottom helps birds have stable footing, and you will need to empty or store the bath in freezing temperatures to prevent cracking.
How do I clean and maintain an outdoor bird bath?
Empty and refill the bird bath every one to three days to keep water fresh; do it daily when it is hot. Scrub the basin once a week with a stiff brush and hot water or a 1:9 white vinegar solution, rinse well before refilling, and don't add soaps or chemicals. To slow algae and mosquito growth, put the bath in partial shade and consider gentle water movement from a dripper or bubbler.