How to Get Suction Cups to Stick Better on the Glass of a Hummingbird Feeder

Various items come attached to a small hook on a suction cup. The suction cup attaches itself to a nonporous surface, such as glass, by trapping a pocket of air inside while blocking out all external air. This air-tight seal is what allows the suction cup to stick to the surface its pressed against. Unfortunately, these suction cups do not always stick as well as they should, especially when they are attached to something that moves frequently, such as a bird feeder hanging from a tree. Nevertheless, there are several steps you can take to improve the strength of the cup so that it stays in place.

Things You'll Need

• Rubbing alcohol
• Glass cleaner
• Paper towel
• Sponge
• Water

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Wipe the area of the bird feeder where the suction cup will be placed with rubbing alcohol and paper towel. This will remove any grease or oil -- which can cause the suction cup to slip -- that has been transferred by your fingers and other sources.

   • 2

     Clean the glass on the bird feeder with glass cleaner and paper towel. Make sure that no fibers remain from the paper towel before applying the suction cup. Even small amounts of debris and dirt reduce the ability of suction cups to take hold.

   • 3

     Dip a sponge in water and use it to moisten the suction cup. The water will help create a strong, tight seal so that the suction cup does not move or fall.