I have a large flight cage for the two tiels. I used to put paper over the bottom grate and change it every day. But, Emma started laying eggs. So, I moved the paper to under the grate, but then I have to wash the grate every day.

I suddenly thought about the large flower sack towels I have many, many of. I put the towel on top of the grate. I think I can change it every other day, and wash them all once a week. This way, no chewing of newspaper and no washing of grate.

What do you think?

Keep an eye on the birds to make sure they haven't started chewing the cloth and aren't getting their toenails caught on the bottom. If they swallow a lot of cloth fibers it can impact the crop and you don't want that to happen.

Why not just run a paper towel across it once a day n wash ut once a wk. Not going to hurt them .

"Why not just run a paper towel across it once a day n wash ut once a wk. Not going to hurt them ."

The position of my back while cleaning the grate while it is inside the cage is awkward and, thus, painful. Taking the grate out is awkward because it is a bit heavy for me. The only place to clean it then is at the kitchen sink, but poop tends to go everywhere.

This is one of the consequences of aging.

Carolyn: Yes, I agree that I must watch for those two things. So far, there have been no issues.

I clean grates and trays in the shower

Paper towels are shreddable just like newspaper, and the problem is that paper-shredding is setting off the breeding hormones.

Maybe get bbq scruber like this n use soft side. With long handle it shouldn't hurt your back.

Hi, Mel.
That seems like a constructive suggestion, and I will keep it in mind. Have you tried that tough looking implement? I wonder whether it might take the paint off the grill?
I think, though, I will stay with the floursack towels for a bit, and evaluate whether I am happy with the arrangement.

No my bird wont poo in his cage lol. But when i had tiels i just just used paper towel. N washed once a wk. The rough bit i think you can remove it. Not sure but i think its helt on by a screw.