Removing dried bird droppings from your car can be tricky, as they can be acidic and damage your car’s paint if left for too long. However, it’s important to do it safely to avoid scratching the paint. Here are the best methods to remove dried bird droppings without damaging your car's surface:

1. Soak and Lift Method (Using Water or Detail Spray)

Materials Needed:

• Spray bottle filled with water or a quick detailer spray
• Microfiber cloth
• Car-safe cleaning solution (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak the Bird Dropping: Spray the dried bird droppings with water, a quick detailer spray, or a car-safe cleaning solution. Saturate the area and let it sit for a few minutes. This will soften the dried droppings and make them easier to remove.
2. Gently Wipe: After soaking, use a microfiber cloth to gently lift the bird droppings off the car. Avoid scrubbing, as this can scratch the paint.
3. Re-soak if Necessary: If the bird droppings are still hard, re-spray the area and let it soak longer. You may need to repeat the process a few times for tough spots.
4. Wipe the Area Clean: After removing the bird droppings, wipe the area with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any remaining residue.

2. Baking Soda and Water Solution

Materials Needed:

• Baking soda
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber cloth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Solution: Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 cup of water and pour it into a spray bottle.
2. Spray the Dropping: Spray the bird dropping with the baking soda solution and let it sit for 10 minutes to break down the stain and neutralize the acidity.
3. Gently Wipe Away: Use a microfiber cloth to gently lift the bird droppings off the surface.
4. Rinse: Rinse the area with clean water and dry with another microfiber cloth.

3. Car-Safe Cleaning Products

There are specialized cleaning products designed to remove bird droppings, sap, and bugs from car surfaces. These products are safe for the paint and will often contain ingredients to neutralize the acidic effects of bird droppings.

Instructions:

1. Spray the Product: Apply the bird dropping remover to the affected area and let it sit for the recommended time on the product label.
2. Wipe Off: Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe off the softened bird droppings.
3. Rinse or Buff: Clean the area with a quick detailer spray or water, and buff dry with a clean microfiber cloth.

4. Vinegar and Water Solution

Materials Needed:

• White vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Microfiber cloth

Instructions:

1. Mix the Solution: Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the Dropping: Spray the dried bird droppings generously with the solution.
3. Let it Sit: Let the solution soak for about 10 minutes to soften the dropping.
4. Wipe it Off: Gently wipe away the bird droppings with a microfiber cloth.

5. Claying Method (For Tough Spots)

Materials Needed:

• Detailing clay bar
• Clay lubricant (or quick detailer spray)
• Microfiber cloth

Instructions:

1. Lubricate the Area: Spray the area with a clay lubricant or quick detailer spray.
2. Clay the Surface: Gently rub the clay bar over the affected area in a back-and-forth motion. The clay will pick up any residue left from the bird droppings.
3. Wipe and Buff: After claying, wipe the area with a clean microfiber cloth and buff the surface.

Tips for Avoiding Damage:

• Don’t Scrub: Scrubbing dried bird droppings can scratch the paint due to the abrasive nature of the particles in the droppings.
• Act Quickly: Bird droppings are acidic and can cause permanent damage if left on the paint for too long. Try to remove them as soon as possible.
• Use a Microfiber Cloth: Microfiber cloths are soft and won’t scratch the paint, unlike rougher materials.
• Apply Wax or Sealant: After cleaning the area, apply a layer of wax or a ceramic coating to protect the paint and make future cleanups easier.

By using these methods, you can safely remove dried bird droppings without damaging your car’s paint, leaving the surface clean and protected.