Best way to clean a bird-feeder?

[Jumbo747]

My bird-feeders need a good clean! I have several; they are regularly used but are looking decidedly mucky especially around the base. I have tried soaking them in warm water and brushing with an old toothbrush but this doesn't get into all the nooks and crannies. Any one got any easy solution please? TIA

[Ann]

Its very difficult when you have a lot of build up of rotten seed in the bottom of a long feeder and of course it can be very dangerous for the birds. Try soaking in a bowl of hot water with washing up liquid and a small amount of bleach and/or Dettol. Then get a long stick (a thin piece of garden cane) and poke the black rotten seed out. Make sure you rinse in clear water thoroughly afterwards.

[Robinia]

If there is an easy solution I'd like to know too Jumbo. :o) I do the same as you, a good soak and then it's a case of poking and scraping with brushes, sticks, old knives...I've tried them all.

[GRUMPY]

I would purchase new ones if they are realy difficult to clean as the mould etc is poisiness for the birds.

[Jumbo747]

Thank you Ann, Robin and Grumpy - seems like I'm not alone then!