The summer is here in spirit as temperatures climb ahead of predicted highs of 34C on Friday. And for drivers, it's also a time for their cars being splattered by bugs and stained by tree sap.
The sticky smears can blight their windshield, headlights and bonnet are full of small speckles of grime caused by driving through swarms of bugs and sap dripping from trees. Motorists are now being given suggestions from LeaseCar.uk and its sister site LeaseElectricCar.co.uk on how to keep their cars clean during summer, when the bug and tree sap season is in full swing.
A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “It may be a difficult task when the grime is left on the car for a long time, as insect stains, tar and sap will bond to the paintwork. But with the right cleaning solutions and speedy reactions, you can easily get rid of the dirt yourself, using either specialist products or just generic household items.
“If you want to make your life easier, then the key is to act fast to prevent the splats hardening and harming the car’s bodywork.”
Here are the tips from LeaseCar.uk
Pressure washer or hose
The first thing you should try is to see how much dirt you can get off with just some water pressure. This will also soften the remaining splatter, making it easier to remove in the next steps.
Bug and tar remover
There are powerful formulas that quickly remove tough stains on exterior, without damaging the car’s paintwork. They come in spray and aerosol bottles, they’re easy to use and you can purchase them at hardware shops for an affordable price.
Bug removal sponge
A specialist removal sponge is another helpful tool that is designed to help you fight those adhesive stains without a hassle. The sponge is made of abrasive fabric, however it doesn’t leave any scratches on the surface.
Baking soda
One of the simplest ways to remove ingrained contaminants is to use baking soda mixed with water. It’s a common alternative for car soap and works well as a mild scrubbing paste.
Dryer sheets
Dampen a dryer sheet with warm water and use it to wipe down the car. Make sure to thoroughly wash your car after using this method to ensure that the chemicals in the laundry product don’t damage the exterior of the car.
Glass cleaner
Although common household glass cleaner might be too abrasive to be used on car paint, it’s a good solution for cleaning the windshield. Just mix it with a little bit of soap, spray it on bug splats and sap, let it sit for a while and then wipe it off with a wet towel.
Vinegar solution
Vinegar is another good option for cleaning the windshield, as its mildly acidic formula works well with eliminating all kinds of debris from glass surfaces.
Oil substances
Simple household oils, like baby, lamp and cooking oil might also effectively get the job done. Apply one of the oils onto a soft cloth, rub it in circular motions on the stained areas and rinse the car after.
Wax your car
To prevent your car being covered in splatter and stains in the future, apply wax to the paint. It not only gives your car a shiny appearance, but also creates a barrier that protects the vehicle's body from contaminants, including insects and tree sap.
