When it comes to choosing a hummingbird feeder, one of the most common questions people have is whether glass or plastic feeders are better. Both materials have their pros and cons when used for hummingbird feeders, so it really comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you.
Pros of Glass Hummingbird Feeders
Here are some of the benefits of using a glass hummingbird feeder:
- Visibility – Glass allows you to easily see the nectar levels and when the feeder needs refilling. Plastic can scratch over time, reducing visibility.
- Durability – Glass is very durable and can last for many years with proper care. Plastic can become brittle and degrade over time when exposed to sunlight.
- Easy cleaning – Glass feeders are very easy to thoroughly clean, while plastic can start to retain stains over time.
- No plastic taste – Nectar stored in glass won’t pick up any plastic flavors from the container.
- Looks more natural – The transparent look of glass mimics flowers in nature.
Glass hummingbird feeders often have a very sleek and elegant appearance that can fit into any backyard. Glass also tends to be better for the environment compared to plastic.
Cons of Glass Hummingbird Feeders
Here are some of the downsides associated with glass hummingbird feeders:
- Heavy – Glass feeders can be quite heavy when full, making them harder to hang.
- Breakable – Being glass, the feeders can crack or shatter if hit hard or dropped.
- Heat absorption – Glass absorbs heat more readily than plastic, potentially warming nectar faster.
- Condensation – Temperature changes cause condensation inside glass feeders.
- Cost – Glass feeders tend to be more expensive than plastic options.
The weight and fragility of glass feeders mean you have to find sturdy hanging locations protected from wind or flying balls/objects. And you’ll want to dump out nectar each night during hot weather to prevent spoilage.
Pros of Plastic Hummingbird Feeders
Here are some benefits of using plastic hummingbird feeders:
- Lightweight – Plastic feeders weigh much less than glass, making hanging easier.
- Durability – Plastic is extremely impact resistant compared to glass.
- Insulates temperature – The plastic helps regulate temperature changes to avoid nectar spoiling.
- Easy to ship – Lightweight plastic makes these feeders cheaper to transport.
- Variety of shapes – Plastic can be molded into many fun hummingbird shapes and colors.
- Lower cost – Inexpensive plastic feeders range from $5-$20 in many stores.
The durability and lightweight nature of plastic feeders allow them to be hung in many locations around your yard even on delicate branches. You also don’t have to worry as much about accidentally damaging them.
Cons of Plastic Hummingbird Feeders
Here are some of the disadvantages commonly associated with plastic feeders:
- Can degrade over time – Plastic exposed to sunlight becomes brittle and scratched.
- Retains stains – Plastic tends to absorb stains that can be difficult to remove.
- Not as clear – Scratches and dulling of plastic reduces how easy nectar level is to see.
- Can leach chemicals – There are concerns that chemicals could leach from plastic into nectar.
- Less attractive appearance – Plastic lacks some elegance and can look “cheap.”
You’ll need to replace plastic feeders more often than glass, and thoroughly cleaning them can become challenging over time. The potential for chemicals leaching into nectar may also be concerning.
Key Differences Between Glass and Plastic Hummingbird Feeders
Here is a quick overview of some of the main differences between glass and plastic hummingbird feeders:
| Factor | Glass | Plastic |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Prone to breaking if dropped | Very durable, impact resistant |
| Weight | Heavy when full | Lightweight |
| Appearance | Elegant, stylish look | Variety of shapes/colors |
| Temperature | Absorbs heat, prone to condensation | Insulates temperature |
| Cleaning | Easy to thoroughly clean | Can retain stains over time |
| Nectar View | Easy to view level | Can scratch reducing visibility |
| Cost | Tends to be more expensive | Very inexpensive options |
Tips for Choosing Between Glass and Plastic Hummingbird Feeders
When deciding between purchasing a glass or plastic hummingbird feeder, keep these tips in mind:
- Consider your budget – Glass costs more but can last longer if cared for.
- Think about hanging locations – Plastic is great for windy spots or delicate branches.
- Prioritize ease of cleaning – Glass is easiest, but some plastics clean up well.
- Watch out for chewed plastic – Some hummingbirds damage plastic with their bills.
- Research chemical leaching – Look for “BPA-free” plastics to minimize this.
- Compare styles and shapes – Consider decorative styles and capacities.
- Look for thick, durable plastic – Thin plastics crack and warp easier in sunlight.
- Check that glass is thermal-tempered – This makes it more impact resistant.
- Consider your climate – Plastic better insulates in hotter climates.
Weigh your priorities like ease of hanging, cleaning needs, and budget to make the best choice. And look for high quality materials in either plastic or glass for longevity.
Conclusion
Both glass and plastic have their advantages and disadvantages when used to make hummingbird feeders. Glass looks more elegant and natural but weighs more and risks breaking. Durable plastic is cheaper and insulates temperature, but can degrade and stain over time. Consider where you want to hang the feeder, your cleaning preferences, climate, and budget when choosing between these two common materials.
With high quality manufacturing, either glass or plastic hummingbird feeders can serve you well for years. Look for brands that use thermal-tempered glass or thick, BPA-free plastics. And properly clean your feeder every few days during hummingbird season. With a quality feeder that’s regularly maintained, hummingbirds will get nutritious meals in your yard for many seasons to come.
