lovebirds and household cleaning

Question
I would like to know about cleaning the house and what is safe and what is not - do we have to get all natural / pet safe cleaning supplies now that we have lovebirds as pets?
Thanx.

Answer
Hi, Pam,

Birds have very sensitive respiratory systems.  You need to avoid using anything that produces toxic fumes, releases toxic chemicals in the air, etc.  Things like carpet deodorizer that you sprinkle on the carpet, things you spray in the air, bleach, ammonia, furniture cleaner...all of these things.  Even things like perfume/cologne, hair spray, incense, overheated Teflon, even fumes from a fireplace....all of these things can be detrimental to a parrot's respiratory system.  And some birds are more sensitive than others.  You don't have to use chemicals in order to clean things properly.  Products like baking soda, white vinegar, club soda for stains, etc., are excellent substitutes.

There have been instances where entire rooms full of parrots died when the owner used carpet fresh in the room.  Do you watch "How Clean Is Your House" on cable TV?  This is a good show to watch for ideas of what products to use/hints for cleaning using natural products.  This information can also be found on the internet, in books, etc.  If it isn't safe for us, it definitely isn't good for a bird...and then some.

Chrys