You’ve probably experienced it before: a drive on the highway and the entire front of your car is covered in insects. Not only does it look messy, but it’s also harmful to your paintwork. But don’t worry—with the right approach, you can remove insects quickly, safely, and without scratches.
Why are insects so bad for your paintwork?
Insects may seem harmless, but they are anything but. They contain acids and proteins that can "etch" into your paint. The longer you leave them, the greater the chance of permanent damage.
In short: the faster you remove them, the better.
How often should you remove insects?
That depends a bit on how much you drive.
- Do you drive a lot (e.g., highway miles)? → Wash once a week
- Do you drive less? → Every other week is often fine
The most important thing is that insects aren't left sitting for too long.
What do you need?
Use an insect remover
A specialized insect cleaner is actually indispensable. These products are designed to soak loose insect residue without damaging your paintwork.
They often contain enzymes that break down proteins, making the residue soft and easy to release.
Optional
Do you have stubborn residue? Then you can carefully assist with, for example:
- A soft wash mitt
- A Monello Guanto Puro
- A large bucket
- Slick car shampoo
That texture "grabs" the insect remains without scratching and makes removal a lot easier.
The right way: how to safely remove insects
Removing insects doesn't have to be complicated at all, as long as you do it the right way.
1. Work on a cool surface
This is an important, but often forgotten step.
- Do not work in direct sunlight
- Ensure your paintwork feels cool to the touch
Many insect cleaners are (slightly) alkaline.
If you let them dry on warm paint, it can cause staining.
2. Let the product dwell for a moment
Spray the product evenly onto the soiled areas and let it dwell for a few minutes.
Please note:
- Do not let it dry
- Keep an extra close eye on it during warm weather
A few minutes is usually sufficient.
3. Help loosen it (if necessary)
Use a Guanto Puro (for the special mesh structure) or a wash mitt to tackle the insect remains just a bit better, without causing scratches.
Move gently over the surface and rinse your mitt occasionally for the best result.
4. Rinse thoroughly
Rinse everything thoroughly with water, preferably using a pressure washer.
Afterwards, you can continue washing the car as you normally would.
Extra tip: don’t forget your windshield
Your windshield is often a real insect magnet. So, be sure to clean it at the same time. This not only makes for a more pleasant drive but a safer one too.