The fastest and safest way to get egg off your car is to immediately rinse it with a large amount of lukewarm water before cleaning it with a dedicated car wash soap. The key is to avoid letting the egg dry and to never use abrasive materials. Eggshells can microscopically scratch your paint, and the albumen (egg white) dries into a glue-like substance that can etch the clear coat if left in the sun.
If the egg has already dried, you'll need to rehydrate it. Soak several microfiber towels in a bucket of warm water and gently lay them over the affected area for 5-10 minutes. This will soften the egg without rubbing it into the paint. After soaking, gently rinse the area again. You can then proceed with a two-bucket wash method: one bucket with clean water for rinsing your mitt, and another with car-specific shampoo. Work from the top down, using a fresh, clean microfiber mitt.
For stubborn residue, a dedicated automotive detailer's spray or a citrus-based cleaner is effective. Spray it on, let it sit for a minute to break down the proteins and fats, and then gently wipe with a clean microfiber towel. Avoid household glass cleaners or all-purpose cleaners as they can strip wax and damage the clear coat over time. After the entire area is clean, dry it with a separate, clean microfiber towel and consider applying a fresh coat of wax or sealant to restore protection.
| Cleaning Scenario | Recommended Immediate Action | Products to Absolutely Avoid |
|---|
| Fresh Egg Splatter | Flood with lukewarm water from a hose or bucket. | Paper towels, rough sponges, dry wiping |
| Dried-On Egg | Rehydrate with warm, wet microfiber towels laid on the spot. | Razor blades, scraping with fingernails, abrasive cleaners |
| Stubborn Sticky Residue | Use a dedicated automotive detail spray or lubricant. | Acetone, nail polish remover, gasoline, abrasive polishing compounds |
| Post-Cleaning Care | Wash entire panel with car soap, dry, and apply wax/sealant. | Leaving the area unprotected |
