Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd
It’s not pleasant, but bird poop happens. Whether you are tackling it yourself or seeking professional help, cleaning bird poop from your car windshield is a task that can be done quickly and easily with the right strategy.
Effects Of Bird Poop On Car Windshield
- Bird droppings can etch and damage car paint if left on for too long.
- It can also obstruct your driving view and create a potentially hazardous situation.
- Bird poop is acidic, which can corrode the surface of your car’s windshield if not cleaned quickly and properly.
- The acidic nature of the poop can etch and stain the glass surface, making it difficult (or even impossible) to remove without special cleaning products or tools.
Cleaning Bird Poop Off The Car Windshield
You Will Need
- Glass Stripper
- Microfiber Cloth
- Warm water
- A soft cloth
Instructions
Clean Windshield Of Debris And Dirt: Start by removing debris or dirt from the windshield. Use a glass stripper to remove dust and dirt, and then wipe away the residue with a microfiber cloth.
Pre-Soak The Bird Poop:
- Fill a bowl with warm water.
- Dip your soft cloth into it.
- Apply the damp cloth to the bird droppings.
Soaking helps to dissolve the droppings and make them easier to remove.
Gently Wipe Away The Bird Poop: Using light pressure, gently wipe away the bird poop with your cloth. Use circular motions for better results. Make sure not to press too hard on the windshield, as this could damage it.
Rinse The Windshield: Once you have removed all the bird droppings, rinse off the windshield with clean water. This will help to remove any residue from the glass.
Dry The Windshield: Dry your windshield with a microfiber cloth or chamois and polish it with a clean, soft cloth. Doing this will help keep your car’s windshield in good condition.
Rain Repellent: Once your windshield is clean and dry, apply a rain repellent to help protect it from future stains.
Tips For Preventing Bird Droppings On Your Car
- Park in covered or enclosed areas when possible
- Avoid parking under trees and power lines
- Cover your car with a protective cover when parking outdoors
- Use rain-repellent products to help keep bird droppings from sticking to the windshield.
- Clean your car regularly and inspect it for bird poop. If you spot any, use a glass cleaner or window stripper to remove it as soon as possible.
- Keep your windows closed when driving through areas known for bird activity.
- Be mindful of nesting seasons and avoid parking in areas where birds are known to nest.
- If you spot bird droppings, act quickly and use specific products to remove them safely.
- Familiarize yourself with the signs of windshield damage from bird droppings so you can identify if your car needs repair work.
- Use a glass cleaner specifically designed for cars, as other products may contain abrasive chemicals that can damage your windshield.
Cleaning Bird Droppings Options
- Baking Soda
- WD-40
- Bird Poop Wipes
- Glass Cleaner
Glass Stripper Can Also Remove From Windshields
- Tree sap
- Bug splatter
- Grime
- Water Spots
FAQs
Is Dry Bird Droppings More Difficult To Clean?
Yes, dry bird droppings are more challenging to clean as the droppings have hardened and become stuck to the surface. To remove dry bird droppings, it’s best to first pre-soak the area with warm water and let it for a few minutes to help soften the droppings. Then, gently wipe away the bird poop with a soft cloth or sponge and rinse any residue with clean water.
How Can You Remove The Smell Of Bird Droppings From Your Car Windshield?
The best way to remove the smell of bird droppings from your car windshield is to use a glass cleaner specifically designed for cars. This cleaner will help break down the acid in the droppings and neutralize unpleasant smells. You can also use baking soda on a damp cloth to help absorb any odors or WD-40 on a soft cloth to help break down the mess.
Which Is Better For Cleaning – Towels Or Sponges?
It depends on the cleaning you are doing. A soft cloth is usually better for removing bird droppings because it can absorb liquid and help remove stubborn matter more effectively. Sponges work well for general cleaning but may not be as effective when removing bird poop stains.
Should You Use Your Windshield Wipers To Clean Up Bird Poop?
No, as this may cause streaks and further damage to the windshield.
What Makes Bird Droppings So Hard To Clean?
Bird droppings contain a lot of dried uric acid, which is highly acidic and difficult to remove. The long drying time makes it even harder to clean off thoroughly.
What Should You Do If Bird Droppings Are Etched Into Your Windshield?
You may need to take your car to an auto repair shop for more intensive cleaning or glass repair.
When do You need To Fix A Windshield With Bird Droppings Etching The Glass?
- Hazy Patches
- Permanent stains
Conclusion
Cleaning bird poop off a car windshield can be an unpleasant task, but it’s necessary to maintain the visibility of your vehicle. With these simple steps and tips, you can quickly and easily remove bird droppings from your windshield without causing permanent damage. Go ahead and get rid of those pesky bird droppings today!
If you find that the bird poop on your car window is particularly stubborn or has been sitting for some time, we recommend seeking professional help to ensure it is properly removed. A good auto glass shop should be able to handle the task quickly and effectively without leaving behind any damage.
