Bird droppings on your car can be stubborn, especially when dried, but a simple two-ingredient method using items already at home can clean them without harsh chemicals or expense. According to The Times' motoring expert Tim Shallcross, a microfibre cloth and warm water are all that is needed.
How the Method Works
Shallcross advises soaking a microfibre cloth in warm water and laying it over the bird dropping for a couple of minutes. For hardened droppings, five to ten minutes may be necessary. After soaking, rinse the cloth, wet it again, and dab the dropping away gently—rubbing should be avoided to prevent scratching the paint.
If residue remains, repeat the soaking process for a few more minutes. Shallcross warns against using kitchen roll, describing it as abrasive and prone to breaking apart, which can leave bits stuck to the car and create extra mess.
Why Prompt Removal Is Crucial
Bird droppings contain uric acid, which can corrode car paintwork over time. Andrew Jervis of ClickMechanic, speaking to the Daily Express in 2022, explained: "With a PH level of around four, it can burn through the clear coat top layer and eat away at the paintwork. The best thing to do is clean it off as soon as possible." He recommended a homemade mixture of baking soda and hot water, letting it soak for 10 minutes before wiping off.
Additional Tips
Specialist cleaning products are also available, but the water-and-cloth method is affordable and effective. Shallcross emphasizes that whichever approach is used, removing droppings promptly is vital to avoid costly paint repairs.
