How To Get Bird Poop Off Outdoor Furniture | Cushions | Lawn | Chairs | Outdoor | Furniture

How to Get Bird Poop Off Outdoor Furniture: A Comprehensive Guide

• Find efficient ways to clean outdoor furniture of bird droppings. Use our professional advice and solutions to keep your patio spotless and welcoming.

• If you’ve spent time enjoying the outdoors, you know the joys of lounging on your favourite patio furniture, soaking up the sun, and enjoying a nice breeze. Unfortunately, with the beauty of nature comes some unwelcome guests—like birds, whose droppings can turn your beloved outdoor furniture into an unsightly mess. While bird poop is a nuisance, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent damage to your furniture and maintain the aesthetics of your outdoor space. This blog post will guide you through the steps needed to effectively remove bird poop from various types of outdoor furniture and cushions.

Why Removing Bird Poop is Important?

Before diving into the methods for removal, let’s discuss why it’s crucial to clean bird droppings off your outdoor furniture:

• Prevent Stains: Bird droppings contain uric acid, which can quickly damage paint, varnish, and fabrics if left untouched. The longer it sits, the harder it can be to clean.

• Maintain Aesthetic Appeal: Nobody wants to sit on dirty furniture. Keeping your outdoor area clean improves your space's look and feel.

• Hygiene: Bird droppings can harbor bacteria and parasites that are harmful to humans and pets, making it essential for your family’s health.

How to Get Bird Poop Off Outdoor Cushions?

Outdoor cushions are notorious for being challenging to clean. Below are steps to effectively remove bird droppings from your cushioned furniture:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

• Rubber gloves

• Plastic spatula or scraper

• Mild detergent or upholstery cleaner

• Warm water

• Soft brush or sponge

• Clean towels

• Bucket

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Choose a shaded area for cleaning to prevent the cleaner from drying too quickly in the sun. Ensure you have enough space to maneuver your cushions comfortably.

Step 3: Remove Excess Droppings

• Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling bird droppings for hygiene purposes.

• Gently Scrape Excess: Using a plastic spatula, carefully scrape off as many droppings as possible without pressing down too hard, as this could push it deeper into the fabric.

Step 4: Clean the Stained Area

• Mix Cleaning Solution: In a bucket, mix mild detergent with warm water according to the instructions on the detergent.

• Test on a Small Area: Before applying the solution to the stained area, test it on a small, hidden patch of fabric to ensure it doesn’t cause discolouration.

• Apply the Solution: Use a sponge or soft brush to apply the solution to the stained area. Be sure to work from the outside of the stain towards the centre to prevent spreading.

Step 5: Rinse

• Rinse Thoroughly: Use clean water to rinse the area you’ve cleaned, ensuring no detergent is left behind. A wet sponge can be very effective for this.

• Blot Dry: Use clean towels to blot the area and absorb as much moisture as possible.

Step 6: Air Dry

Allow the cushions to air dry completely before using them again. Placing them in a sunny spot will help expedite the drying process and reduce any residual odours.

How to Get Bird Poop Off Lawn Chairs?

If you have metal or plastic lawn chairs, removing bird droppings is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Gather Supplies

• Rubber gloves

• Plastic scraper or putty knife

• Mild detergent

• Warm water

• Soft sponge or cloth

• Bucket

• Optional: Baking soda for tough stains

Step 2: Scrape Off Excess Droppings

• Wear Gloves: Just like with cushions, put on your rubber gloves.

• Remove Excess: Gently use a plastic scraper to lift off excess bird droppings, careful not to scratch the surface of your chairs.

Step 3: Create a Cleaning Solution

• Mix the Solution: Combine mild detergent with warm water in a bucket.

• Test the Cleaner: As before, test the solution on a small area to ensure compatibility with the chair material.

Step 4: Clean the Chairs

• Apply the Cleaning Solution: Use a sponge or cloth to apply the soap solution to the affected area, scrubbing gently in circular motions.

• For Tough Stains: If the stain persists, make a paste of baking soda and a little water. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

• Rinse Well: Use clean water to rinse off any soap or baking soda residue and ensure the surface is squeaky clean.

• Dry the Chairs: Use a towel or let them air dry in a sunny spot.

How to Clean Bird Poop Off Lawn Furniture?

Cleaning bird droppings from different types of lawn furniture generally follows similar principles. Whether your furniture is metal, plastic, or wood, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize damage.

Step 1: Assess the Material

Before cleaning, identify the material of your lawn furniture. Here are some common types and their recommended cleaning methods:

• Metal: Use a mild detergent or vinegar solution. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the surface.

• Plastic: As mentioned above, plastic is easy to clean with soap and water. Tough stains may require baking soda.

• Wood: Wood requires a bit more care. Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent and avoid soaking the wood to prevent damage.

Step 2: Cleaning Process

Follow the same general steps outlined earlier:

• Remove Excess Droppings: Scrap it off gently.

• Prepare Cleaning Solution: Use mild detergent and warm water.

• Apply Cleaner and Rinse: Make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid soap residue.

Step 3: Additional Tips

• Regular Maintenance: To avoid tough stains in the future, clean your furniture regularly. A simple wipe-down once a week can go a long way.

• Protective Coatings: Consider applying a protective sealant for wood or a furniture protectant for metal to make future cleaning much easier.

Preventing Bird Poop Accumulation

While it’s impossible to stop birds from targeting your yard, you can take some steps to deter them from perching on your furniture:

• Scare Tactics: Utilize wind chimes, reflective tape, or scare balloons to make your space less appealing to birds.

• Furniture Covers: Use outdoor covers when furniture is not in use. This provides a barrier against droppings and protects from the elements.

• Strategic Placement: If possible, rearrange your furniture placement to areas that are less frequented by birds.

The Importance of Quick Cleanup

Cleaning bird droppings promptly is essential. If they are left for an extended period, not only do they become harder to remove, but they can also lead to permanent stains or damage, particularly on fabrics and finishes. Moreover, unattended droppings can attract other pests, leading to further mess and hygiene concerns.

Conclusion

Getting bird poop off outdoor furniture may not be the most glamorous task, but it’s necessary for maintaining a clean and safe outdoor space. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively and efficiently clean your outdoor cushions, lawn chairs, and other lawn furniture. Regular cleaning, combined with preventive measures, will keep your outdoor living area beautiful and inviting. Now, roll up your sleeves and reclaim your outdoor space—your furniture will thank you!