Ditch The Chemicals: There's A Cuter Way To Keep Birdbath Water Fresh & Clean

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Creating a bird-friendly garden is the ultimate dopamine kick for outdoor enthusiasts, but with its perks comes responsibility. Just as you tend to your native plants, your birdbath also requires regular maintenance. Neglecting that responsibility can lead to algae buildup and the spread of diseases among our feathered friends, which certainly won't bode well for the avian-safe atmosphere you're trying to create. If you want to ensure that garden accessory remains clean but feel hesitant using a bleach solution to get the job done, there's a chemical-free Amazon find worth exploring. 

The Otoolling Store is selling four-packs of Copper Bath Disk Ornaments in various offerings from $16.99 to $19.99 — turtles, birds, and peonies — and they don't require the use of chemicals. They act as a natural water purification system and work alongside seasonal accessories like heaters and running water sources, meaning you're able to use them year-round. Shoppers praise the aesthetics of the pieces, and multiple reviews note they're particularly handy if you find algae in your birdbath. Some shoppers, however, were taken aback by just how small the pieces are, which clock in at 0.67 by 1.22 inches. Their small size makes it particularly easy for wildlife to scoop them up or for them to potentially interfere with the birdbath's filtration system, if applicable.

Of course, the disks don't entirely negate the cleaning and refilling process, but customers claim they "really do keep the gunk out." Another shopper noted, "It won't keep [the birdbath] crystal clear forever, but I think you'll clean less often and that's a plus." Aesthetics aside, frequent upkeep is essential to avoiding murky bacterial build-up that can sicken your feathered friends. You should clean it every few days, if not more, depending on where it's stationed in your yard, the frequency in which it's being used, and the type of weather you experience. In terms of freshening up the water, experts suggest as much as daily changes, particularly if you're in a hot climate.

In addition to easing the cleaning process, the disks do have a few other notable features. For one, gardeners are gravitating toward them for their "cute and detailed" aesthetic that lends a rustic touch to green spaces. Plus, they work well with a running water feature, like Yeomi's Floating Solar Water Pump, which not only will attract more birds but also deter mosquitoes — a welcome benefit for everyone involved. Birdbaths do more than attract birds; you might as well keep them clean and functional for however you intend to use them in your yard.