Clean feathers (5)
I believe the answer is:
preen
'clean feathers' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for preen that I've seen before include "Groom with elaborate care" , "(Of a bird) tidy and clean feathers" , "Tidy and clean (plumage)" , "Self-congratulate" , "Primp" .)