Inexpensive Hummingbird Feeder Fix

We have a bunch of hummingbirds in our neighborhood, so we wanted to put up several cheap feeders for them. Most of the feeders commonly available are pretty pricey. The least expensive, $1.59 at Walmart, was great until we tried to clean it in the dishwasher. Oops. Fortunately, we found a solution that lets us recycle glass jars and makes the whole thing dishwasher safe so that our little fast friends have a safer feeder.

Step 1: What We Bought...

Step 2: What We Tried...

Step 3: What We Found... Yikes!

Step 4: Solution!

Simple fix! Trader Joe Instant Coffee jar. Thread matches plastic base perfectly. Nice thick dishwasher safe glass!

Step 5: Drink the Coffee First!

Step 6: Comes Right Off With a Little Pull.

Step 7: Not One, Not Two, But Three Zips, About 11" Long.

Step 8: Leave Some Space!

The bulbous end of the glass jar is what eventually holds the top on.

Step 9: That's Why We Leave Room in the First Tie.

Step 10: Snug, Snug, Snug. Snip, Snip, Snip.

Step 11: Ready to Feed.

Step 12: An Appreciative Guest.

This is a very simple easy project. I drink instant coffee anyway, so we have a surplus of the jars. No leaks! Other similar jars may work; try them for leaks first before putting on the zip ties. The zip ties are unaffected by the dishwasher, even at high temperature. A nice side benefit is that the extra jars can be used to store an advance supply of hummer food in the fridge. They're the perfect amount for the feeder. Be sure to let it warm to room temperature before putting it out.

Hope you liked this!