Feeding birds requires clean feeders. Not only are clean feeding stations healthier for hummers, they also drink more from them.
For feeder cleaning, pour out and discard unconsumed hummingbird food and flush the bottle with hot water. Nectar spoils, especially in warm temperatures, so never reuse it.
As much as possible, disassemble your feeder for simpler cleaning. Many modern Perky-Pet® hummingbird feeders may be disassembled. Even feeding ports and bee guards can go.
Create a mild cleaning solution with hot water and dish soap in a container or sink. Put all feeder pieces in the solution and soak for 1-2 hours. This loosens nectar residue and mold accumulation inside the feeder, making it easier to scrub.
Scrub the hummer feeder with a mop or bottlebrush. Remove any nectar residue and mold from the bottle and base.
Finish scrubbing and drain the cleaning solution. Rinse the feeder with cold water to remove suds and grime. Nectar that tastes like soap won't please hummingbirds!
Let your feeder pieces air-dry on a dish rack or cloth. You may assemble and refill your feeder after they dry. Relax while your hummers enjoy their clean, fresh food!