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We have switched to that type of feeder as they are the easiest to keep clean. Our state recommends vinegar only and we change the nectar* every three days. I spray them with vinegar and let them sit for three minutes then scrub and rinse. We put them in front of a fan to dry. We also use the mascara brush for ports, get them free on FreeCycle. I used to use bee covers on the ports but no longer need them as I've learned the amount of nectar needed. For each of those tray type it is 1/2 cup. The Oriele/other bird weight will tilt the nectar to them and the Hummingbirds can reach it. We currently have a couple pair of Hummingbirds. We only use the bleach/water at the end/beginning of the season. We also put a rain guard on them so the nectar is not diluted. When I pour out the old nectar I put it into a bee/ant feeder that I keep near the base of other feeders and within minutes the ants are there. I also do not poison/spray wasps as the BlueJays snatch/eat the larvae We also have birds that eat the ants. The yard is a NWF BackYard Habitat so trying to get it all working together. I would never use DAWN on my dishes because of their EWG ratings so would never think to use it for bird feeders. I do have a brother that is a mechanic who uses it for work laundry.

I live in San Diego CA and it doesn’t get too hot by the immediate coast where I Live. It’s hard for me to do it every other day since I have so many bird feeders. Usually I do it 2-3 times per week. I use Hydrogen Peroxide and I let it sit for 4 minutes. I like the idea of cleaning them in the evening and letting them dry over night. It takes me about an hour and half to clean my 6 hummingbird feeders. That’s why I feel like I don’t do it enough. I usually also clean and disinfect all the areas the feeders will come in contact with including the sink. I dry them with 100% post consumer recycled paper towels. And since the paper towels are technically clean…I reuse them around the home.

I don't know what's going on with the Ruby-Throated hummingbirds here in Nashville,Tennessee. I have around 15 each year around this time and so far only seen two. I always keep my feeders clean.

Do you or have you ever heard of anyone providing plain water in a feeder (separate from a bird bath) Do hummers need to drink water separate from nectar. I've been wondering this for a while.

I clean my hummingbird feeders very good. I mainly do mine at night when the hummingbirds are sleeping. I do my feeders every two days.

Thank you. I do have one request. Can you identify what time of year it is when you post these in the video? You often talk about "This time of year..." but once your videos are a year old the viewers have no clue when "now" is. Easy to guess for this video but I've watched several of your videos that are over 1 year old and it's purely a guess when you posted and what time of year your referencing. Thanks. PS: Oral-B makes a flossing brush labeled GUM that's great for cleaning those feeder holes.

I religiously clean my hummingbird feeder. I have 2 hummingbirds.

Don’t ospreys get tired of eating fish?