How To Clean a Bird Cage

A clean bird cage isn’t just about appearance; it’s essential for your bird’s health and well-being.  

Dirty cages can harbor bacteria, mold, and parasites that may lead to respiratory infections and other health issues. Regular cleaning also creates a more hygienic environment that helps reduce stress. 

Bird cages should be spot-cleaned daily, thoroughly cleaned weekly, and deep-cleaned about once a month, or more often if you keep multiple birds.

Before you begin, gather the following supplies: 

• Bird-safe disinfectant (avoid bleach or ammonia) 

• Scrubbing brush or toothbrush 
• Cage liners or newspaper 

• Clean cloths or paper towels 
• Protective gloves 
• Optional: Air purifier, HEPA vacuum for surrounding area 

These basic tasks help prevent daily messes from building up: 

• Replace the cage liner or newspaper. 
• Rinse and refill food and water bowls. 
• Spot-clean visible droppings on perches, toys, and cage bars. 

Once a week, dedicate more time to cleaning: 

1. Remove your bird and place them in a safe area. 
2. Take out all removable items such as toys, perches, and bowls. 
3. Scrub these items with warm water and bird-safe disinfectant. 
4. Wipe down cage bars, tray, and base with a cloth or brush. 
5. Rinse all items thoroughly and allow them to air-dry completely before placing them back in the cage. 

Deep cleaning helps eliminate buildup and lingering bacteria. This should be done monthly, or as needed if you have multiple birds or your birds are messier than usual. 

To deep clean a bird cage, follow these steps: 

1. Remove your bird and place them in a safe area. 
2. Disassemble the cage if possible. 
3. Soak all components in hot, soapy water for 15–20 minutes. 
4. Scrub every surface, especially corners and crevices. 
5. Sanitize with a bird-safe disinfectant. 
6. Rinse thoroughly and let everything dry completely before reassembling. 

Cleaning a bird cage can be made simple and stress-free by following these quick tips: 

• Always use cleaning products that are labeled safe for birds. 
• Avoid strong-smelling cleaners like bleach, which can be toxic. 
• Clean when your bird is safely in another room to prevent exposure to fumes. 
• Keep windows open or ventilate the area during cleaning. 

Use this handy guide to remember when to clean different parts of your bird’s cage: 

• Daily: Change liners and clean bowls 
• Weekly: Clean perches, toys, and cage surfaces 
• Monthly: Deep clean the entire cage 

Adjust this schedule depending on the number of birds, cage size, and how messy your bird tends to be. 

While cleaning your bird’s cage, double-check that you aren’t making the following mistakes: 

• Not rinsing disinfectant completely (can leave harmful residues) 
• Skipping hard-to-reach corners where germs build up 
• Using unsafe or harsh chemicals 
• Forgetting to clean toys and perches thoroughly 

Can I use vinegar to clean a bird cage?  

Yes, diluted white vinegar is a natural, bird-safe cleaner. Mix one part white vinegar with two parts water. 

What’s the safest cleaner for birds?  

Look for non-toxic, bird-specific disinfectants.  

How long can my bird stay out of the cage during cleaning?  

As long as they’re safe and supervised, birds can stay out during the entirety of your cleaning routine. Always prioritize their safety and comfort.