As experts in the domain of paint protection, we understand the frustration and concern that comes with bird poop damaging your car’s paint. Bird droppings may seem harmless, but they contain uric acid and other chemical compounds that make them highly corrosive. The strong acidic pH of bird poop, ranging between 3 and 5, can quickly degrade your car’s clear coat, bleach and bubble the paint, and even cause scratches and abrasions on the surface.
But how long does it actually take for bird poop to damage paint? In hot weather and direct sunlight, paint damage can occur as early as 10 minutes from the moment of contact. It is crucial to remove bird droppings as soon as possible to minimize the risk of paint damage. Ideally, bird poop should be removed within 48 hours from contact.
However, it’s important to note that simply swiping or wiping off the bird poop is not enough. Taking the proper steps and using the right products is essential to avoid further damage to your car’s clear coat and paint. Using inappropriate methods or tools can leave your vehicle prone to rust and further corrosion.
Here are some helpful tips from our Body Shop Technicians on how to remove bird droppings and protect your car’s paint for years to come:
Commercial Bird Poop Cleaning Solutions: Soak a microfiber cloth in a cleaning solution and place it gently on top of dried caked-on bird poop for 15 minutes. Rub softly with the cloth to lift off the mess. Use a clay bar to pick up any remaining impurities and buff with polish.
Bird Poop Wipes or Poop Spray: Use wipes made of bamboo or other soft fibers, covered in a gentle, non-corrosive cleaning solution. Alternatively, you can use a specialized Poop Spray for easy removal.
WD40 Spray: Spray a generous amount of WD40 on dried bird poop splats and let it sit for about one minute. Gently wipe with a clean microfiber cloth, and the poop should lift up easily.
Hot Water + Baking Soda Spray: Mix 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of baking soda into a 32-ounce spray bottle filled with hot water. Stir and shake to dissolve. Spritz the solution onto the dried bird poop and let it soak in for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with fresh water.
Seltzer and Club Soda on Windshield: For stubborn bird poop stuck on your windshield, pour a little club soda or seltzer on it and let it sit for up to 5 minutes. Then, spray with clean fresh water and wipe with windshield wipers and wiper fluid.
If you find yourself dealing with a polka-dotted poop mess after parking under a tree, it may be best to seek professional help. Having your car professionally detailed and cleaned by an auto body technician or automotive detailer can ensure a thorough and safe cleaning process.
In cases where the paint has already been scratched, damaged, bubbled, or is beginning to corrode, bringing your car in for a professional touch-up and repainting, or applying a new clear coat, is recommended.
To prevent future damage from bird droppings, you can have a professional install a clear bra vinyl wrap, apply a fresh clear coat to the paint, or regularly apply a coat of wax polish. Regularly washing your car with professional-grade supplies at home or through a professional auto body detailing service is also important.
If you need assistance with removing bird poop, protecting your car’s paint, or any other related services, don’t hesitate to contact us at Bird Poop Cleaning. You can reach us at [082-797-3702] or email us at [hello@khunclean.com].
Remember, taking prompt action is crucial in preventing paint damage from bird poop. Don’t let those dastardly defecating demons of the sky ruin your beautiful car!