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Pet/bird safe fountain cleaner

(5 Posts)
Willow500 Thu 31-May-18 18:57:36

Does anyone know of a product I can use in a small water feature to keep the water clear which is safe for birds? And cats although I've never seen them drink from it. Despite cleaning it out regularly the bowl quickly goes green and looks awful - presumably it's not doing the pump any good either. I don't run it permanently as it's battery powered so not sure if this isn't helping.

Greyduster Fri 01-Jun-18 12:29:11

Don’t do what DH once did and clean out the reservoir with bleach, silly beggar. He didn’t rinse it out, thinking it would benefit the water feature by circulating the residue with the water. All we got was a lot of froth. It looked like a mad dog for ages until he finally cleaned it out properly!

mimiro Fri 01-Jun-18 12:57:25

i use white vinegar to clean birdbaths and fountains.if soaking i drape a heavy towel or plastic over it so as not to confuse the birds and squirrels.it kills algae mold and other nasty things that like to grow there.a soft bristle brush to remove the stubborn stuff.
i even clean the pets dishes with it.
it's the most non toxic thing i know of.
about a half liter to a gallon of water usually does it if soaking.then rinse well.

mimiro Fri 01-Jun-18 12:58:59

and let it run so the vinegar mix cleans the pump.great way to clean out coffee machines as well.

Willow500 Fri 01-Jun-18 13:51:25

Thanks both - I've only ever cleaned it with a brush and washing up liquid but will try the vinegar - I have read that apple cider vinegar in the water helps keep it clear and is good for birds (a capful - not the bottle grin )