Enjoying the pleasant sounds of birds singing can be a delight, but the joy diminishes when you step outside and find bird droppings on your property or pavement. Bird droppings not only pose health risks due to harmful substances but can also damage surfaces like walls, roofs, car paint, and concrete.
This article provides tips on how to clean bird droppings off concrete, using common tools such as scrubbing brushes and household chemicals like Hydrogen Peroxide and Muriatic Acid.
Understanding Bird Droppings and the Need for Removal:
Bird droppings aren’t actually white. Unlike mammals, birds excrete both urine and feces through a single opening called the cloaca. Bird droppings, to conserve water, are converted into acids or guanines instead of urea as in mammals.
The uric acid forms a white paste resembling urine, with dark brown feces in the middle.
The uric acid in bird droppings can corrode building materials, posing a threat to concrete, marble, paint, and metals. This damage goes beyond unsightly stains, as it can lead to water leakage and subsequent flooding.
Additionally, bird droppings are a serious concern for historic sites, where the architectural integrity is legally protected and valued for its aesthetics.
Removing bird poop from concrete is also essential for health reasons. Bird droppings contain the fungus Histoplasma and Chlamydia bacteria, which, when inhaled by humans, can compromise immunity. They also harbor bacteria that cause gastrointestinal diseases, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.
While the risk is low with small amounts of fresh droppings, it increases when dealing with concentrated, dried accumulations. Regularly cleaning dried bird poop off concrete is therefore necessary to mitigate these health hazards.
How to Clean Bird Poop Off Concrete: A Simple Guide
1. Scrape Off the Droppings
Begin by scraping off most dried bird feces using a putty knife or a similar tool. While optional, this step helps minimize the amount of droppings that may spread to surrounding surfaces during the cleaning process.
2. Power Washing for Tough Debris
Employ a hose, and for stubborn stains, consider using a mild setting on a power washer. If concerned about spreading droppings, skip this step or use a gentle setting on the hose.
3. Use a Mild Detergent
Utilize a bristle brush and liquid dishwashing detergent to scrub away remaining bird droppings. Afterward, rinse the concrete with a hose or proceed to the next step for an alternative cleaning method.
4. Remove Small Debris with a Paper Towel:
If you wish to avoid rinsing droppings into the surroundings, place a dry, absorbent material on top of loose droppings. A rag or paper towel works for a few droppings, while sawdust or cat litter can be used for larger amounts. After a few hours, sweep it up with a broom and dustpan.
5. Natural Cleanser with Household Items
Create your own natural cleanser using common household items. This can be an effective solution for most bird poop stains on concrete.
6. Commercial Bird Poop Cleaner for Tough Stains
Access various commercial bird poop cleaners available in the market. These cleaners contain non-toxic enzymes designed to break down and eliminate bird droppings effectively. They are safe to use around plants, being non-toxic and biodegradable.
7. Organic Concrete Cleaner for Dried Bird Poop
Opt for an organic concrete cleaner, which is highly effective against dried bird poop stains. Organic cleaners contain enzymes and bacteria that work efficiently in lifting and removing bird poop stains.
Look for one with ammonia or a bleaching agent for optimal results. Granular concrete cleaners are preferable as they enhance friction during scrubbing.
The Best Natural Alternatives for Removing Bird Poop Stains
1. Baking Soda
For small and light bird poop stains, baking soda is a highly effective natural solution. Mix boiling water, baking soda, and a few drops of liquid dish soap in a spray bottle.
Allow the baking soda mixture to sit on the stain for a few minutes, then use a brush to scrub the area before thoroughly rinsing it with water.
Baking soda’s abrasive properties aid in stain removal, and it acts as a natural deodorant to eliminate the bird poop odor from concrete.
2. Bleaching Agent
Chlorine bleach is another efficient option for tackling bird-dropping stains on hard outdoor surfaces. Create a solution by mixing one tablespoon of laundry detergent with chlorine bleach in warm water.
Pour the solution over the droppings, let it sit for a few minutes, and then use a nylon-bristled brush to scrub the area.
Alternatively, apply the solution with low pressure, let it sit for about five minutes, and then use a low-pressure pressure washer to remove significant bird poop stains.
3. White Vinegar
White vinegar is successful in removing bird feces, especially from flat surfaces like glass or painted metal. Its acidity helps break down stains, making them easier to scrub off.
In Summary
The post aims to guide you on effectively removing bird droppings from concrete. The choice of method depends on the quantity and size of the bird droppings. For small stains, less abrasive solutions like soap and white vinegar work well, while larger droppings may require specialized cleaning agents. Consider installing bird deterrents for a long-term solution to prevent birds from soiling your concrete.
