The tricks to getting bird droppings and tree resin off your car

 

Tricks to get bird droppings and tree resin out of your car

Munich (dpa) — Summer is beautiful with leaves on the trees and birds chirping in the branches. But your car won't feel the same about these two aspects of the summer. What should be done to prevent such environmental impacts from having a lasting impact? In the case of bird droppings, you should clean them up quickly. To avoid damaging the paintwork, every hour counts, says car care specialist Christian Petzoldt.

 The longer you leave the droppings, the more damage there will be until you may need a professional to fix it. If the droppings are still soft, they can be rinsed with water. However, if a chalky edge remains or the droppings harden, extra care is needed as you may scratch the paint if you try to wipe them off.

Petzoldt recommends letting the wet cloth sit on the affected area for a while and then gently picking up the residue instead of moving the cloth back and forth. He advises drivers who often find bird droppings on their paintwork to keep a bottle of water or soapy water and a soft microfiber cloth or roll of kitchen towel on board at all times.

Sticky Greetings from the Trees

But it's not just bird droppings that can damage paint – tree resin can also cause problems. In summer, conifers in particular secrete a lot of sticky resin. Resins from deciduous trees such as poplars, birches and maples can also damage a car's paintwork. Resin not only drips directly onto cars parked under trees, it can also be carried onto the vehicle by falling leaves or needles. Once it hardens, according to the German motoring organization ADAC, paint stains are difficult to remove.

Again, the longer the exposure time, the higher the risk of paint damage, which can be more than just visual. This is because a discolored stain makes the surface vulnerable to other environmental influences that can cause further damage. In addition, a rock-hard resin stain cannot be removed or can only be removed with great effort. So the clock is ticking like bird droppings.

If the resin on the sheet is still soft, a wash cycle can usually remedy the situation. ADAC recommends inspecting the car beforehand for any stains and pre-treating them with hot water and a soft sponge. Then choose a washing program that offers a pre-wash. However, washing the car may not be enough for some resin stains. After that, the affected area should be treated again with hot soapy water and a soft cloth.

Circular motions and light pressure are ok. ADAC specialists recommend frequent replacement of the cleaning water so that the resin on the paint does not break down again and again. If the stains are more stubborn, special agents such as tree resin remover may work. It is best to thoroughly rinse the area afterwards with clean water so that the product does not attack the paint.

Before spending money on special cleaners, owners can give home remedies a try. Oils and grease from the kitchen can also soften the resins, but take several hours to soak in. Once the resin is removed, you should reseal the area with car wax. Finally, if you find yourself dealing with a layer of honeydew—the sweet secretions of tiny insects like aphids—the solution is simple. Fortunately, this layer, which can rub off like a sticky film on sheet metal and cause unsightly stains, is water soluble and much easier to remove than resin.

Bird droppings and tree resin can be a real nuisance when they find their way onto your car's pristine surface. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause damage to your vehicle's paint if left unattended. In this article, we'll explore some effective tricks to safely remove bird droppings and tree resin from your car and ensure your vehicle remains clean and damage-free. Let's dive into the world of car care and maintenance! Having these things on hand will make the cleaning process much smoother and more efficient.

The key to preventing permanent damage is to act quickly. Bird droppings and tree resins contain acids and chemicals that can eat into your car's paint if left for too long. Once you notice a mess, set aside time to clean it up. Rinse the affected area beforehand Before scrubbing, gently rinse the affected area with a hose or bucket of water. This will help soften the dried residue, making it easier to remove without scratching.

Use the Clay Bar

Clay sticks are excellent tools for removing stubborn dirt like tree resin. First, knead the clay stick into a flat shape, then coat the surface with waterless car wash spray or soapy water. Gently run the clay stick over the affected area. The clay picks up resin or bird droppings, leaving your car's surface smooth and clean.

Avoid scrubbing

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or excessive force when handling bird droppings and tree resin, as this can damage your car's paint. Instead, opt for soft microfiber towels or the clay stick method mentioned earlier.

Rubbing alcohol

You can use rubbing alcohol for particularly stubborn stains. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a microfiber cloth and gently rub the affected area until the residue dissolves. Then rinse thoroughly. After removing bird droppings or tree resin, wash the entire car with a high-quality car wash soap to ensure a uniform appearance. After cleaning, apply a coat of automotive wax or sealant to protect your car's paint and give it a shiny finish.

Regular maintenance

To avoid future encounters with bird droppings and tree resin, consider parking your car in a garage or under a carport. Regular waxing of your car will also create a protective barrier against these contaminants.

Dealing with bird droppings and tree resin on your car doesn't have to be a headache. By acting quickly and following these tricks, you can keep your car clean and well-maintained. Don't forget to gather the necessary supplies, use a clay stick to remove and finish with a protective wax or putty to keep your car in top condition. With a little care and attention, your car will stay free of unsightly stains and potential damage.