Bird baths are a picturesque addition to your garden, patio or yard. However, if they aren\’t maintained properly, they can become an eyesore. If algae and scum are taking over your bird bath, forget about washing it with harsh chemicals or bleach solutions. There are environmentally friendly solutions to keep your bird bath clean and your feathered friends happy and safe.

The best way to keep the green, organic scum from mucking up your bird bath is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Sometimes that\’s easier said than done, but in this case it really is pretty simple. There are all-natural products available that won\’t harm the birds or require constant maintenance.

Bioverse makes a Birdbath Water Cleaner that uses beneficial bacteria and enzymes to prevent stains, mineral deposits and organic build-up. The product reduces the excess nutrients in the water that causes the problems.

Before using the Birdbath Water Cleaner, it is a good idea to give your bird bath a good scrub. After emptying the bath, use a scrub brush or sponge along with a small amount of water. If you cannot remove the stains, try using a solution of water mixed with a bit of vinegar. There are also a few soy-based cleaners available that are safe for birds. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach solutions, should not be used. Even some mild detergents can be harmful to birds, so plain water is your safest bet.

You will want to disinfect your scrub brush or sponge (or just toss it). If you want to keep it, let it soak in some lemon juice and hot water for 20 minutes. Then spray a little Lysol on it, before giving it another rinse with water.

After giving the bird bath a thorough rinse, fill it with water and add a dispenser of the Bioverse Birdbath Water Cleaner. All you have to do is place the dispenser in the middle of your bird bath and the product will begin releasing beneficial bacteria and enzymes. The dispenser lasts for 30 days, and can be used on bird baths as small as one gallon or even up to a seven-gallon bird bath. The only maintenance required by you is to keep the bird bath filled with water.

Every 30 days, you will want to refresh the dispenser to keep your water clear. So, just take out the old one and drop a new one in. That\’s it. You\’re done. Now, you won\’t have to deal with that green organic build up that used to accumulate in your bird bath. A well-maintained bird bath will keep the birds in your area frequent and happy visitors.

Bioverse also has all-natural products for Koi ponds, fountains and larger water features. Don\’t use chemical algaecides and other products that aren\’t eco-friendly on your water when you don\’t have to. Whatever type of water feature you have – large or small — can be healthily maintained with ease.

Trey Casselman enjoys blogging and working in the garden. For more info about how to keep a birdbath clean and healthy or to find products to clean ponds, check out the Bioverse site today.