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Bug Off! A Guide to Cleaning Bugs Off Your Car

car wash soap and a wash mitt on a soapy car
RCP America's Wash 'N Gloss, our 2 in 1 Protective Wash & Wax Soap

As the weather warms up and you hit the road for adventures, one inevitable nuisance awaits you: bugs plastered all over your car. Those stubborn splatters not only make your vehicle look unsightly but can also damage the paint if left unattended for too

long. But fear not! With the right techniques and tools, you can effectively bid adieu to those pesky critters and restore your car's shine. In this post, we'll explore some tried-and-tested methods to clean bugs off your car effortlessly.


  1. Act Fast: The longer bugs remain on your car's surface, the harder they are to remove. Aim to clean your car as soon as possible after a bug-splattering encounter, especially if you've been on a long drive.

  2. Preparation is Key: Gather your supplies before starting the cleaning process. You'll need:

  • Prime Time All-Purpose cleaner/bug remover solution and RCP America's protective Wash 'N Gloss car wash soap.

  • Bug Sponge or Bug Block

  • Water hose and bucket of water

  • Wash Mitt

  • Wax or polish (optional)

  1. Pre-Treat the Affected Areas: Before diving into washing, pre-treat the bug-splattered areas with Prime Time All-Purpose Cleaner. This will help loosen the dried-on bugs, making them easier to remove during the washing process.

  2. Gentle Washing Technique: Avoid abrasive scrubbing or using rough materials like abrasive sponges, brushes, or towels, as they can scratch your car's paint. Instead, opt for a soft microfiber towel or sponge and gently wipe the affected areas in a back-and-forth motion.

  3. Use Proper Washing Solutions: While water alone may not be sufficient to remove all the bugs, using a specialized bug remover or car wash soap can make a significant difference. These products are designed to break down the proteins in bug splatter, making them easier to wipe away. Visit the RCP America online store for our favorite soaps and bug removers.

  4. Work in Sections: Divide your car into manageable sections and focus on one area at a time. Start from the top and work your way down, ensuring thorough cleaning without spreading the bug residue.

  5. Rinse and Repeat if Necessary: After cleaning off the bugs, rinse the area with water to remove any remaining residue. If some spots persist, you may need to repeat the process or use a gentle, non-abrasive brush to dislodge stubborn bugs.

  6. Dry and Protect: Once you've cleaned off all the bugs, dry your car thoroughly using a clean, dry microfiber towel to prevent water spots. If desired, apply a layer of wax or polish to protect your car's paint and give it a glossy finish. We recommend RCP America's Cherry Wax; A glossy, highly protective traditional wax.

  7. Regular Maintenance: To prevent bug splatter buildup in the future, consider applying a protective wax coating to your car periodically. Regular washing and waxing will not only keep your car looking pristine but also make bug removal easier.


Cleaning bugs off your car doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and a little elbow grease, you can effectively remove those stubborn splatters and keep your car looking its best. Remember to act fast, use gentle cleaning techniques, and invest in quality cleaning products for optimal results. So, the next time you return from a road trip adorned with bug souvenirs, armed with this guide, you'll be ready to tackle the task with ease. Happy cleaning!


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