Flies splats and tree sap can cover cars in warm weather and both can be hard to remove. But common household items can do the job, according to the pros.
Motoring experts at LeaseCar.uk have come up with nine effective ways for drivers to keep their cars clean throughout the warmer months. Drivers can start off by trying to pressure-wash away the grime with water, or use affordable bug remover sprays from hardware stores.
But there are several household items many Brits will have lying around that are also effective for cleaning during the summer. Using baking soda mixed with water is a cheap and easy way to remove splats and sap from cars, as well as vinegar on the windscreen. Any oil-based substances motorists have lying around can also be extremely effective - such as baby or olive oil - by just dropping some on to a soft cloth and rubbing in circular motions.
Tim Alcock from LeaseCar.uk said: “It can be frustratingly difficult to remove any bug splats after a long road trip, or tree sap which has hardened overnight after parking in a covered spot. For many of us the first port of call would be to make a trip to the shops and buy a formula designed for this issue.
"But what many motorists are unaware of is that common household items can be equally as effective to remove grim - and often significantly cheaper. Baking soda, oil and water are great substances for helping to lift off bug splats and tree sap, as well as dampened dryer sheets and vinegar for the windscreen. Make the task a lot easier by acting as fast as possible to prevent any dirt and grime hardening and ruining your vehicle’s paintwork.”
Here are LeaseCar’s top tips for keeping cars clean during summertime:
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.
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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.
Oil-based 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.
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.
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 windscreen. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
