There is no need to treat or paint the boxes prior to putting them up. If you want to paint the box, we suggest using a water-based, non-toxic paint. Please do not paint over the dark circles on swift boxes - these are visual clues to swifts that there is a nesting cavity.

We suggest inspecting the box once a year when you are very confident there are no nesting birds using it.

To clean the box, only if needed:

• Sweep out any leaf litter or pellets from the base of the box.
• Using a weak solution of dish soap and warm water, wipe the whole box down, making sure to clean in the corners.
• Make sure the box is dry before replacing any substrate on the box floor.
• This is done to ensure any pests or diseases carried by nesting birds are eliminated.

To maintain the box:

• While your box is down for a clean, inspect all sides and joints for any damage.
• If, in the unlikely event of any cracks, fill with wood filler and make sure this dries fully.
• Inspect the mounting plate and fixings before remounting the box.