The fastest way to remove egg from a car is to act immediately. Rinse the area with copious amounts of cool water to dilute and wash away the egg before it dries. If the egg has dried, you'll need to rehydrate it with a soaked towel and then carefully clean the area with a dedicated automotive soap and a microfiber towel, using a gentle, straight-line motion to avoid scratching the paint. The egg white can etch the paint clear coat (the transparent, protective top layer of your car's paint) if left for too long, and the yolk contains fats that can stain.
Start by flooding the egg with cool or lukewarm water. Do not use hot water, as it can cook the proteins onto the paint, making the situation worse. If the egg is fresh, this initial rinse may remove most of it. For dried-on egg, soak a few microfiber towels in water and lay them over the affected area for 10-15 minutes to soften the residue.
After soaking, prepare a bucket with a pH-neutral car wash soap mixed with water. Using a fresh, clean microfiber towel, gently wipe the area. Start from the edges of the mess and work your way in, lifting the egg away without grinding it into the paint. Rinse your towel frequently. Never use abrasive materials like paper towels or rough sponges.
Once all egg residue is gone, wash the entire panel as you normally would to ensure no soapy film or contaminants remain. Dry the area with a separate, dry microfiber towel. Finally, inspect the paint under good light. If you notice any hazing or etching, applying a spray wax or sealant can help fill and mask minor imperfections. For severe damage, professional paint correction by a detailer may be necessary.
| Time Egg Remains on Paint | Likelihood of Permanent Damage | Recommended Action |
|---|
| Less than 1 hour | Low | Immediate rinsing and washing should prevent damage. |
| 1-4 hours | Moderate | Egg may begin to etch clear coat; careful cleaning required. |
| 4-12 hours | High | Visible etching or staining is likely; wax may be needed after cleaning. |
| 12+ hours | Very High | Significant etching probable; professional detailing is often necessary. |
