How to Get Bird Stains Off Car Paint

How to Clean Bird Poop Off Car

We've all been in this situation: You exit Whole Foods, a bag full of free-range chicken and organic veggies in your arms. Your foot wiggles underneath your Lexus RX to activate its Power Rear Door. Once you load the groceries and close the liftgate, you see an extraordinarily large dollop of bird poop plastered on your SUV's hood. (Pterodactyls must not be extinct, after all.)

While it's true your Lexus looks slightly less attractive now, bird poop on your car is no big deal – right? Think again; because of its acidic qualities, bird droppings can dry and etch onto your vehicle's paint, causing everything from discoloration to early-onset corrosion and rust. That's why it's important to clean bird poo off your luxury vehicle ASAP.

Baking Soda

What can't baking soda do? Mix together a solution of hot water and baking soda (4-5 tablespoons) in a spray bottle, and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Spray the solution generously on any dry bird droppings and let it sit for several minutes. Rinse the area with clean water, repeating as necessary until etched-on bird poop is no longer etched-on.

This cleaning solution is best for fresher bird poop stains.

Unscented Laundry Soap

Lexus LC 500 Convertible Savannah

Have a soft-top convertible like a red Lexus LC 500? Birds love these, for some reason. If you have bird poop stuck on your convertible top, unscented laundry detergent can help you scrub it off without ruining the fabric.

First, allow the bird scat to dry. (Wet bird poop is actually more difficult to clean off of upholstery.)
Scrape the dry bird droppings with a plastic scraper or something similar. Do not use any metal or sharp objects, as these can tear your fabric convertible top.
See that chalk-like, white residue? That's what you want to clean. Apply a few drops of liquid laundry detergent and pat down with a clean, dampened cloth until the area is saturated.
Put on some gloves, then rinse the cloth and gently scrub the area into a lather.
Rinse and wring out the cloth well. Pat the area with the clean cloth.
Allow the car to air dry, preferably indoors.

Seltzer Water

The carbonation from seltzer water acts to break up dry bird droppings for easier clean-up, particularly on windows and windshields. Pour some seltzer or club soda directly on the bird-turd stain, allow it to bubble for 30 seconds, then wipe away with a damp, clean cloth or sponge. Rinse the area thoroughly with a hose.

Not all carbonated drinks are good to use on your car, however. Colas or any liquid high in sugar can do damage to your car's paint and rubber trims. Steer clear!

Specialty Detailing Product

A quick detailer spray, one that's specifically designed to clean contaminants on car exteriors, should easily clean off old bird poop. These cleaning products are convenient, fairly cheap, and can wash more than just bird droppings from your car – they can also clean dried bugs, water spotting, finger smudges, grease marks, and more.

What detailer spray should you use for bird poop on your car? Consult with your auto dealer or a local body shop or detailer for product advice.

WD-40

Among WD-40's many uses, cleaning bird poo from cars is one of the product's most overlooked. It's generally safe to use on car paint, so there's little need to be fearful of damaging your Lexus. Just spray WD-40 on the bird crud, let it do its magic for 30 seconds, and gently wipe away with a clean microfiber cloth or damp sponge.

Once the bird dookie has been removed, it's a good idea to wash your luxury car and apply a fresh coat of wax or a similar vehicle protectant.

Visit Your Auto Body Shop for More Assistance

If that etched-in bird poop was left on too long, you may need the help of a certified body shop to repaint or replace any damaged areas. Contact our Savannah collision center at 912-443-4443 to schedule an appointment or ask our experts for advice. We're located at 41 Park of Commerce Blvd in Savannah, GA, and repair all Lexus models and many other brands.

For any other assistance related to your Lexus, including auto service, maintenance, sales or trade-ins, contact Chatham Parkway Lexus at 888-379-0084 or 1120 Chatham Parkway in Savannah. We're here Monday through Saturday!

Tags: Bird Poop on Cars, Bird Poop on Convertible, Car Cleaning Tips, How to Clean Bird Droppings
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