Bird droppings on outdoor furniture can turn a lazy day into an accidental cleaning task pretty fast. Many an outdoor enthusiast has expressed exasperation at these ugly splatters, be they fresh or sun-baked. But it isn't messy to get rid of them. With the right approach and a few things common in many homes, your problems will be over. It has simple, effective ways to deal with bird droppings and make your outdoor space really inviting and spick-and-span. From quick cleanups to methods for removing stubborn stains, you will get practical solutions for keeping patio furniture looking great, no matter what kind of surprise your feathered friends leave behind.
What You Need to Clean Bird Droppings
Gathering the right tools and materials before you start cleaning will make the job much easier. Here's what you'll need to tackle those pesky bird droppings effectively.
Tools for the Task
To remove bird droppings, you'll need a few basic tools:
- Scraping Tool: A plastic putty knife or an old credit card works well. This helps you gently lift off dried droppings without scratching your outdoor furnitures.
- Spray Bottle: Fill this with your cleaning solution. It allows for even distribution of the cleaner over the affected area.
- Brushes: Have two on hand - a soft-bristled brush for general cleaning and a toothbrush for getting into tight spots or tackling stubborn stains.
- Garden Hose: You'll use this for rinsing. If you don't have access to a hose, a bucket of clean water and a sponge can work too.
- Microfiber Cloths: These are great for wiping and drying without leaving lint behind.
Cleaning Solutions That Work
When it comes to cleaning agents, you have a few options:
- Laundry Detergent Mix: This is your go-to solution. Mix a tablespoon of liquid laundry detergent with two cups of warm water in your spray bottle. It's effective and gentle on most surfaces.
- Enzyme Cleaner: For tough, set-in stains, an enzyme-based cleaner can break down the proteins in bird droppings. You can find these at pet stores or online.
- Vinegar Solution: If you prefer a natural option, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. This solution is particularly good at neutralizing odors.
- Bleach Solution (Optional): For white or light-colored furniture, you might consider a diluted bleach solution. Mix one part bleach with ten parts water. Be cautious, though - bleach can discolor some materials.
You can always test your cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage or discolor your furniture.
How to Get Bird Poop off Outdoor Furniture
Now that you've gathered your tools and materials, it's time to tackle those unsightly bird droppings. Follow this comprehensive guide to restore your outdoor furniture to its former glory.
Step 1. Assess and Pre-treat the Stain
When nature calls, do not jump to action by using soap and water. First things first, take a good look at the stain. Is it still wet or dry? This first evaluation will guide you on what to do.
For fresh droppings:
Gently scoop up most of the mess with a disposable paper towel or plastic scraper, Be careful not to smear or press the stain deeper into the fabric or surface.
For dried droppings:
Use your plastic scraper or old credit card to slowly scrape away as much as this petrified material as possible. Work carefully and patiently to protect the surface of the furniture from damage. A light mist with water will help soften any deposits that cannot be easily removed to aid in removal.
Step 2. Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Now, mix up your cleaning solution. Under most circumstances, a simple mixture of laundry detergent and water works best.
Here's the perfect ratio:
- 1 tablespoon of liquid laundry detergent
- 2 cups of warm water
Combine the two in your spray bottle and give them a gentle shake. Warm water, besides dissolving the soap better, may additionally be effective at breaking down bird droppings.
Step 3. Apply and Scrub
With your solution ready, it's time to apply and scrub:
- Spray the cleaning solution generously over the stained area.
- Allow it to sit for 1-2 minutes to penetrate the stain.
- Using your soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the area in circular motions. This action helps lift the stain from the surface.
- For textured surfaces or stubborn spots, employ your toothbrush to get into crevices and work on particularly resistant areas.
Patience is key. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage the furniture or ingrain the stain further.
Step 4. Tackle Tough Stains
If your initial cleaning attempt doesn't fully remove the stain, don't despair. Some bird droppings, particularly those that have baked in the sun, require extra attention.
For persistent stains:
Create a paste using an oxygen-based cleaner and a small amount of water. Apply this paste to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing gently and rinsing thoroughly.
Step 5. Rinse and Dry
The final steps are crucial for a spotless finish:
- Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. If using a hose, adjust to a gentle spray to avoid saturating the furniture.
- For fabric surfaces, press a clean, dry towel against the wet area to absorb excess moisture.
- Allow the furniture to air dry completely. Position it in a sunny, well-ventilated area if possible.
- Once dry, inspect the area. If any traces of the stain remain, repeat the process or consider a commercial cleaner designed for outdoor furniture.
This method can effectively remove both fresh and old bird dropping stains from your outdoor furniture. Prompt cleaning often yields the best results, but even stubborn stains can be treated successfully with the right approach.
How to Remove Tough Bird Dropping Stains
Some bird dropping stains can be more persistent than others. Below are methods for removing particularly stubborn and sun-baked stains that won't come out with regular cleaning.
Using Stronger Cleaners for Stubborn Stains
Sometimes, regular cleaning just isn't enough. You may need heavier-duty cleaners if the stain can still be seen after preliminary cleaning, if there is an underlying smell, or if it has penetrated into the material.
In these cases, try enzyme-based cleaners that have a good breakdown of protein-based stains. Apply these according to the product instructions. Another solution would be oxygen bleach added to water to make a paste. Apply to stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, scrub, and then rinse. The vinegar solution, consisting of equal parts white vinegar and water, is equally efficient at neutralizing odors and breaking down tenacious stains.
Tackling Sun-Baked Stains with Intensive Cleaning
Exposure to the sun can bake some of the stains into the surfaces, forming very annoying spots. Such stains often need an intensive approach using some potent cleaning paste.
Take on sun-baked stains by mixing one part oxygen bleach with an equal amount of water to obtain a thick paste. Slather a liberal amount onto the stain and seal it, using plastic wrap, from drying out. Allow 1-2 hours of set time, then remove plastic wrap, scrub area very gently with a soft-bristled brush, and flush thoroughly with clean water; repeat if needed.
Restore Your Outdoor Furniture to Its Former Glory
Equipped with the right tools, some effective cleaners, and techniques, cleaning off bird droppings from your outdoor furniture is comparatively easy. Quickly approaching and using light scrubbing, harsher cleaners as the situation calls for, will get both fresh and more tenacious stains out of the way. Follow these steps to keep your outdoor space clean, inviting, and ready for relaxation. Don't let bird droppings ruin your enjoyment of your outdoor oasis. Do something today to give your furniture a new life.
