Dryer Sheets...Safe for birds?

[KimberlyAnn]

So I found out why everyone keeps shocking everyone else and the bird...our new couches! I read that all I needed to do was rub dryer sheets or get a product called static gaurd and I would have no more issues with static electricity.

Now obviously, I would never spray anything on the couches with the bird in the apartment, but Emmi does spend a lot of time playing with us on the couch. She never chews it, but does roll around a lot so I'm worried that if I use this product, she could ingest it while preening.

Last night I shocked her pretty good. I even tried to touch her cage before I picked her up. I saw the electric spark between us. She just puffed up and looked at me so I think she's getting used to it. I also googled "Can birds die from static shock?" And found they can't.

So should I try the dryer sheets? Static guard? Just live with the static and become ocd about touching metal three times before we touch the bird? Somewhere, someone has used these products on their clothes, right?

[Eric&Rebecca]

Dryer sheets are toxic i'm afraid at least the scented ones are. On the back of the pack I have it says wash your hands after use before handling foods, pets or children. We haven't really used them since we got the birds. I only use them if I go to the laundrette to dry something big.

I've not heard of the spray. Could you perhaps try getting a cover for the couch or perhaps a rubber lined throw. My mum has one of these. Although the rubber could be toxic too :-/

[KimberlyAnn]

I never use dryer sheets either or softener. It makes my skin itch. I use vinegar instead to soften clothes. And no on the covers...It's an "L" shaped theater couch and the cushions are not removable. Any blankets or sheets just slide off. With the weather change, we are just noticing the issue! Lol

I am assuming the spray is toxic as well, but I have never used it.

So I guess we just touch the metal on the sliding glass door before we touch each other or the bird when the weather is so dry. Sigh. Oh well.

[Eric&Rebecca]

It seems the only way is to discharge it like you said...

I don't think static would harm him too much to be honest but better to go unstatic yourself beforehand!