November 14, 2025
If you’ve driven long distances on Australian roads, especially in summer, you’ll know bug splatters are unavoidable. They might look harmless, but the acidic residue left behind can quickly damage your car’s paintwork if not cleaned off properly. Bug remains contain proteins that can etch into your car’s clear coat, particularly under heat, leaving dull spots or permanent stains over time.
The good news? You can remove bugs safely with the right approach, or let the experts at Star Car Wash, Australia’s leading hand car wash and detailing network, take care of it for you.
Bug splatter isn’t just unsightly; it’s chemically corrosive. The acids and enzymes in insect remains react with your car’s paint, particularly when exposed to sunlight.
If left untreated, bug residue can :
Removing bugs quickly helps maintain your paint’s gloss and long-term protection, saving you from costly detailing or repainting later.
You don’t need special equipment, but you do need to be gentle. Follow this safe, paint-friendly process :
Rinse the front of your car with water, focusing on the bumper, grille, mirrors and windscreen. Apply a pH-neutral pre-wash spray or bug remover and leave it to soak for a few minutes. This loosens the debris without scrubbing.
If you don’t have a bug remover, lay a warm, damp microfibre towel over the area for several minutes to soften the residue.
Use a microfibre mitt and pH-neutral car shampoo to clean the area in soft, straight motions. Avoid harsh circular scrubbing. Rinse as you go.
If the bugs have hardened, use a clay bar and lubricant spray to gently lift remaining contaminants. Wipe clean with a fresh microfibre cloth.
Rinse the car with clean water and dry with a microfibre towel to prevent water spots.
Finish with a layer of wax or sealant to make future cleaning easier and protect against UV and acid damage.
Some popular DIY tips can do more harm than good, so stick to paint-safe methods. Avoid :
Want to prevent bug stains altogether? Try :
Star Car Wash offers detailing and protection packages that can include wax, polish and ceramic coatings for maximum durability.
With over 20 years of experience, 150+ locations nationwide, and eco-conscious cleaning systems, Star Car Wash is Australia’s #1 hand car wash and detailing provider.
We use paint-safe, pH-balanced products and gentle hand washing to protect your vehicle’s finish, trusted by car owners, fleets and corporate partners alike.
Use a pH-neutral pre-wash or bug remover and a microfibre cloth. Avoid scrubbing or harsh chemicals that can strip wax or clear coat.
No. Household cleaners are often too strong for automotive finishes and can cause dullness or streaking. Stick to car-specific products.
Apply wax, sealant, or a ceramic coating regularly. These create a slick surface that makes it harder for insects to stick.
If stains remain after cleaning, a professional paint correction or detailing service can safely restore your car’s finish.
After every long drive, or at least once a week during summer. Regular washing prevents bug residue from hardening and damaging the paint.
To keep your car’s paintwork looking its best and protect it from future bug damage, let our experts take care of it. As Australia’s leading professional hand wash network, Star Car Wash’s trained detailers are dedicated to providing safe, thorough and effective paint protection.
Since 2003, we’ve helped thousands of car owners restore their vehicles to showroom condition. Our hand car wash and detailing services go beyond a simple clean, removing blemishes, safeguarding your paintwork and revitalising your car’s interior from leather seats to plastic trim.
Book online today or visit your nearest Star Car Wash branch.
Keeping your car clean and protected is the best way to prevent bug damage. Regular washing and detailing helps remove insect residue, grime and road debris before they have a chance to cause harm.
Since 2003, our expert team has helped thousands of Australians keep their cars looking their best. As the country’s leading 100% hand car wash, Star Car Wash delivers a gentle yet thorough clean every time.
With convenient locations across major shopping centres, you can relax, shop or grab a coffee while we restore your car’s shine.
Book online today or visit your nearest Star Car Wash branch.
