Enjoying the outdoor space that comes with homeownership is one of the greatest benefits of having a home, yet one of the quickest ways to ruin the moment is with bird poop streaking across your outdoor patio set. More than a problem that is undesirable in terms of aesthetics, bird poop can also lead to long-term damage if not removed professionally. However, with this simple do-it-yourself solution, you can remove the stains from any type of outdoor patio set, no matter what the material.
Why You Need to Clean Bird Droppings Quickly
It is tempting to leave a small bird dropping alone, but acting quickly is essential if one wants to save one’s furniture. The truth is that bird dropping is not dirt—it is acidic in nature.
The pasty white portion of a bird dropping is called uric acid. This is corrosive enough to eat away at any paint, stains, or sealants, including plastics and vinyl.
When contaminated wood is left untreated, this acid can strip away the wood sealers, staining the wood grain itself. This acid can rust the finish layers of metals, forming rust spots. This acid will cause discoloration of plastic resin patio furniture. It is important that this acid is cleaned immediately, as time will result in further damage.
Gear Up Before You Clean
Before beginning the process of cleaning, however, it is important to consider protecting yourself. As much as the risk is minimal, bird poop can potentially transmit bacteria and fungi that can be harmful to human beings if inhaled or ingested, particularly in the instance of dried bird poop that becomes airborne in form.
Gather these simple safety items before you begin:
● Waterproof Gloves: To keep your hands clean and protected from direct contact.
● A Face Mask: Highly recommended when dealing with dry, caked-on droppings to avoid inhaling any dust particles.
● Safety Glasses: A good idea to protect your eyes from any accidental splashes of cleaning solution or debris.
The Universal First Step: Removing the Solid Mess
Regardless of the material your furniture is made of, the first method for removing the majority of the spillage is universal. The trick is to ensure that it doesn’t involve any scraping action that could scratch or damage the surface beneath.
For Fresh, Wet Droppings
This is the simplest method. All one needs to do is take a wet paper towel or a disposable cloth and carefully remove the droppings. One can try to lift it rather than smear it. This should be followed by a wet cloth to remove any leftover residue.
For Dry, Caked-On Droppings
Never try to scrape or chip off a dry dropping. This will almost certainly scratch your furniture and can kick up potentially harmful dust. The secret is to rehydrate it first. Wet a paper towel or a clean rag with warm water and lay it over the spot for 10-15 minutes. This will soften the dropping, making it easy to lift off. For stubborn spots, you can gently use a plastic putty knife or an old credit card to scrape the softened mess away.
Material-Specific Cleaning Solutions
After the solid material is gone, you may be left with a stain or a chalky residue. The right cleaning solution depends on your furniture's material. Always start with the gentlest method first.
For Wood Furniture (Sealed and Unsealed)
Wood is porous and can stain easily. For sealed or painted wood, mix a few drops of mild dish soap into a bucket of warm water. Use a soft-bristled brush or a cloth to gently scrub the affected area. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, damp cloth to remove all soap residue, then wipe it dry. For unsealed wood, use the same method but be careful not to oversaturate the area with water.
For Metal Furniture (Aluminum, Wrought Iron)
Metal furniture is generally very durable and can withstand robust cleaning. The simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water is usually all that is needed. Use a sponge or a soft brush to scrub the spot, then rinse the furniture completely with a hose. A thorough rinse is important on metal to prevent soap scum from building up, which can attract more dirt.
For Plastic, Resin, and Wicker Furniture
Plastic is prone to staining, so a little extra cleaning power might be needed. After removing the solids, wash the area with soap and water. If a stain remains, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it away. For very stubborn stains, a paste made from baking soda and water can be gently scrubbed on the spot before rinsing.
For Fabric Cushions and Umbrellas
Outdoor fabrics require a more delicate approach. First, always check the manufacturer's care tag for specific cleaning instructions. For most fabrics, you can mix mild dish soap with cool water. Apply the soapy solution with a sponge or soft brush, and gently blot or scrub the stain. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can damage the fibers. Rinse by blotting the area with a clean cloth dipped in plain water. Let the fabric air dry completely.
Dealing with Stubborn Stains: When the Mess Lingers
Sometimes, even after cleaning, a faint stain or "ghost" of the dropping remains. Before reaching for harsh chemicals, try these slightly stronger but still safe solutions. Remember to always test any new cleaning solution on a small, hidden area of your furniture first.
● Oxygen Bleach: A powdered bleach (like OxiClean) mixed with water is a fantastic stain remover that is safer for many surfaces than traditional chlorine bleach. It's especially effective on plastic furniture and many types of outdoor fabrics.
● Baking Soda Paste: As mentioned for plastic, a thick paste of baking soda and water provides a gentle abrasive action that can lift set-in stains from hard surfaces without scratching.
● Diluted White Vinegar: The natural acidity of vinegar is excellent for breaking down the mineral and acid components of a bird dropping stain.
Prevention: Making Your Furniture a Less Appealing Target
The easiest way to deal with bird droppings is to prevent them from happening in the first place. While it's impossible to stop birds entirely, you can make your patio a less attractive rest stop.
● Use Furniture Covers: This is the most effective solution. High-quality, waterproof covers will protect your furniture from droppings, sun damage, and rain, extending its life significantly.
● Reconsider Placement: If possible, avoid placing your furniture directly under trees, rooflines, or power lines where birds love to perch.
● Try Gentle Deterrents: Sometimes, simple visual deterrents can help. Reflective items like old CDs or commercially available scare tape that flutter in the wind can discourage birds. A fake owl or hawk can also work, but you may need to move it periodically so the birds don't get used to it.
Conclusion
Bird droppings are an unavoidable part of having an outdoor living space, but they don't have to ruin your furniture. By acting quickly, using the right safety gear, and choosing a cleaning method appropriate for your furniture’s material, you can easily handle the mess. A little bit of cleaning and prevention will ensure your patio furniture remains beautiful, sanitary, and ready for you to enjoy all season long.
