City parking has its downsides—finding a spot is a challenge, and when you do, your car often ends up under a tree or in prime bird territory. The result? Bird droppings and sticky tree sap decorating your once-shiny car. Left untreated, these can damage your paint and leave you feeling like your car’s been through an urban battlefield.
With a little strategy and a visit to Melville Car Wash, you can tackle these messy nuisances without breaking a sweat—or your paint job.
Step 1: Act Quickly
Bird droppings and sap are acidic and can eat into your car’s paint if left for too long. Address the mess as soon as you notice it.
Bird Droppings: These can dry quickly, so act fast to prevent them from hardening.
Tree Sap: The longer sap sits, the stickier and more stubborn it becomes.
Pro Tip: Keep a small car-cleaning kit with wet wipes or a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaner for emergencies.
Step 2: Rinse the Area
Head to Melville Car Wash and start with a rinse to loosen the mess.
Use the Dirt Lifting Spray: This pre-soak softens bird droppings and sap, making them easier to remove.
Let It Sit: Allow the spray to work for a minute before rinsing.
Pro Tip: Avoid scrubbing dry droppings or sap—they can scratch your paint.
Step 3: Soap It Up
Switch to the Intense Soap Spray to clean the affected areas thoroughly.
Focus on the Messy Spots: Pay extra attention to the hood, roof, and windshield—common landing zones for birds and sap.
Cover the Entire Car: Even if the mess is localized, washing the whole car prevents streaks and ensures a uniform clean.
Pro Tip: Use overlapping strokes with the soap spray for thorough coverage.
Step 4: Gently Scrub the Tough Stuff
For any remaining residue, use the Gentle Brush Scrub or a soft microfiber cloth.
Bird Droppings: Dab gently to lift the mess. Avoid pressing too hard to prevent scratches.
Tree Sap: If the sap is stubborn, apply a bit of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to a cloth and rub gently.
Pro Tip: Test any cleaner on a small, hidden area first to ensure it doesn’t affect your car’s paint.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Switch to the Power Rinse to wash away the soap, droppings, and sap.
Start High, Finish Low: This method ensures any residue runs off the car, leaving no streaks behind.
Check Your Work: Ensure all residue is gone before moving to the final steps.
Pro Tip: Repeat the rinse if you spot any lingering messes.
Step 6: Wax for Protection
Bird droppings and sap can leave your paint vulnerable. Apply the Protective Wax Coat to restore a shiny finish and protect your car from future messes.
Apply Evenly: Use sweeping motions to cover the entire car.
Buff for Extra Shine: A microfiber cloth can help spread the wax and add brilliance.
Pro Tip: Regular waxing makes it harder for droppings and sap to stick in the first place.
Step 7: Finish with a Spotless Rinse
End with the Spotless Rinse to give your car a streak-free, gleaming finish.
Let It Air Dry: The spotless rinse eliminates the need for towel drying, saving you time.
Pro Tip: Use a squeegee for extra clarity on windows and mirrors.
Prevent Future Messes
Choose Parking Spots Wisely: Whenever possible, avoid parking under trees or in areas frequented by birds.
Use a Car Cover: A lightweight car cover can shield your car from droppings and sap.
Wax Regularly: A good wax job creates a barrier between your car’s paint and environmental hazards.
Why It’s Worth It
Cleaning up bird droppings and tree sap promptly not only keeps your car looking great but also protects its paint from long-term damage. A few minutes of effort can save you costly paint repairs down the road.
Final Thoughts
City parking may come with its fair share of woes, but with Melville Car Wash’s 7-step system and these practical tips, you can keep your car looking fresh and flawless no matter where you park.
Here’s to clean cars and stress-free parking! ✨