Duck Canvas

[JenJen]

What makes a fabric safe for use in bird cage covers/cage carrying packs? I recently finished a large project made entirely out of duck canvas. My SO thought it had a chemically smell to it (the fabric), so I have washed it, but am now wondering if it's safe to use (I haven't yet used it on the cage with my bird in his cage).

For what it's worth, I basically created a carrying case for my birds travel cage. It has Windows on the sides and a roll down panel for the front door. I'm working on attaching straps that'll allow me to securely/safely tote the cage around.

So -- duck canvas. Parrot friendly once washed or no go entirely?

 

[SailBoat]

Duck Canvas as a product has a very wide range of suppliers and to classify it as a group 'bird safe' or 'not' bird safe would be impossible. The combination of weaves, printing or coloring, and waterproofing makes it even more difficult.

Having said that, you could research your product back to its source and gather the information needed to make that classification yourself.

If you are using it as a 'top' cover thus allowing air flow fully around the sides (no side closures), the exchange of air should limit to some degree the chemical exposure as long as there is ongoing air movement. Washing several times will help greatly in removing most chemicals, but not all. Extended direct exposure to the sun will also limit / remove most chemicals. Combining multi-washing and line drying in direct sun would be the best combination. Air flow will always be needed.

Note: I would recommend that the birds not have direct access the canvas i.e. beak contact. Also, assure that water cannot pool anywhere on the canvas including corner folds where mold can develop.