Can bird toys be cleaned with vinegar solutions?

Vinegar solutions safely clean most bird toys; all mine have been cleaned this way, and I've cleaned hundreds for my own aviary. Plastic and metal do not mind soaking for a few minutes; wood, however, requires careful wiping off. The way you're doing it leaves the bacteria dead without harming the toys. However, always think of your bird's safety first.

Use cleaning rotations weekly. Disinfect one-third of toys. Place clean toys in sealed containers until next use. I put colored dots on the toys I've cleaned after each disinfecting round. They're clean on a rotating basis, so I don't have the buildup of bacteria between disinfecting times, plus there's always some variety.

Clean and inspect for signs of damage to determine whether to discard or repair. If the plastic is cracked, the ropes are frayed, or the wood on the pieces shows cracks or splintering, discard it. Check metal clips to confirm there is no rust.

Vinegar odor: this smell permeates everything, but it will disappear entirely upon drying. Put the toys near an open window for a while if necessary. Never mask your cleaning efforts with scented sprays. Your bird's highly sensitive nose detects chemical residues that you may not even be able to smell.

Create a safe routine for all your toys. Clean all your plastic toys every Tuesday and all your wood toys every Thursday. Have different cleaning supplies for various material types. Your consistency preserves your bird's health while playing.

Read the full article: Bird Cage Cleaning: Essential Guide for Healthy Pets