Bird poo on your car isn’t just unsightly; it can actually cause serious damage to your vehicle’s paintwork.
The acidic nature of bird droppings can eat away at the paint and clear coat, leading to expensive repairs and an eyesore appearance.
Fortunately, by taking the right approach, you can prevent this damage and keep your car looking its best.
According to Maria Kincaid, the head ornithologist at FeatherSnap, swift action is key: “Bird droppings can be harmful to your vehicle, but if you clean it off quickly and use the right technique, you can avoid lasting damage.”
Maria offers expert tips on how to efficiently remove bird poo from your car.
Act fast
Time is of the essence when it comes to cleaning bird droppings off your car. The longer it sits, the more time the acids have to eat away at the paintwork.
“As soon as you notice the mess, you should clean it off immediately or pay a visit to your local car wash.
“By acting quickly, you can prevent the acids from causing permanent damage to the paint and clear coat, potentially saving you hundreds in expensive repairs down the line.”
Use the right tools
When cleaning your car, it’s key to use tools and products that won’t cause further damage to your vehicle’s surface.
Avoid using anything too abrasive, as this can scratch the paint. Instead, opt for a soft cloth and a gentle cleaning solution.
“There are many effective ways to clean bird droppings off of cars. The first is using vinegar, water, and a microfiber cloth. Add equal parts vinegar and water to a spray bottle, spray the stain, and wipe it away gently.
For more stubborn stains, Maria suggests using WD-40 to help loosen the droppings before wiping them away.
“WD-40 works well on tougher spots, especially those that have dried onto the car’s surface. Simply spray it on, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off.”
Finally, a surprising solution to this common problem is using sparkling water.
“The carbonation of sparkling water helps break down the natural acidity of the droppings. You can either pour it onto a cloth and wipe away the stain or spray it on beforehand to give it time to work in.”
Wear protective gloves
Maria warns that bird faeces can be hazardous to your health, so it’s crucial to approach cleaning them with caution.
“E.coli, salmonella, and other diseases can be found in bird droppings, so be mindful to avoid skin contact.
“Always wear protective rubber gloves that cover the majority of your forearm. Once you’ve cleared the stain, carefully remove and dispose of the gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly.”
Prevent future stains
While getting bird poo on your car can be unavoidable, there are measures you can take to reduce the chances of it happening in the future.
“Wherever possible, avoid parking under trees or in areas where birds are known to congregate. Instead, try parking in a sheltered area or car park.
In addition to being mindful of where you park, consider adding a protective coating to your car’s paintwork.
“Adding wax to your car’s exterior can add an extra layer of protection against bird droppings. It not only makes it easier to clean off, but it also prevents stains from being permanent.”
