Clean as a Whistle

What's the best way to clean sugar-water feeders? I have a tough time getting rid of the sticky residue.

—Donald Kraus, Erie, Pennsylvania

George: Soap and hot water, and perhaps a little vinegar, will do a good job getting your hummingbird feeders squeaky clean. Use a tiny bottlebrush or pipe cleaner to scrub off the sticky residue in the feeding ports. It's best to clean the feeders often—about once every week or two.