How to Clean a Bird Bath the Right Way Bird baths can build up with potentially harmful bacteria, pathogens, and algae if not cleaned properly. In This Article View All In This Article Cleaning Frequency Materials Cleaning a Bird Bath Maintenance Tips Bird baths give avians a peaceful refuge to hydrate and preen, but proper maintenance is needed to make them a welcoming and safe environment. Since the water in a bird bath is typically stagnant and not naturally filtered like it is in a stream or pond, it can build up with potentially harmful bacteria and pathogens. Cleaning your bird bath—and filling it with fresh water regularly—will ensure it's safe for the birds drinking from it and using it to clean their feathers. Tod Winston, a birding guide and urban biodiversity specialist at New York City Audubon Julie Zickefoose, bird expert and creator of the DIY WarblerFall bird bath Credit: Tammi Mild / GETTY IMAGES How Often to Clean a Bird Bath How often you clean your bird bath depends on a few factors, including the weather, how frequently it's used, and where it's located. Generally, you should do a routine cleaning of your bird bath every two to three days, or more often if the water looks cloudy or dirty. More frequent cleanings may also be necessary if it's hot outside or if the bird bath is under a tree. "Clean your bird bath more thoroughly every week or so by scrubbing it with a vinegar solution and letting it dry before refilling it," says Tod Winston, a birding guide and urban biodiversity specialist at New York City Audubon. Materials Needed Make sure you have these materials on hand before getting started. Rubber glovesScrub brushHose or bucketWaterDistilled white vinegar Credit: Courtesy of Julie Zickefoose Steps for Cleaning a Bird Bath While it's important to replace your bird bath water and rinse away any debris every other day, you should also complete a deep clean of the bird bath once a week, following the steps outlined below. 1. Discard Old Water Start by putting on a pair of waterproof gloves to protect your hands when cleaning. "Pour out the old bird bath water and large debris into a nearby flower bed or lawn, where it will drain into the soil and not accumulate," says Winston.