Remove Stains from Bird Droppings

While birds may be lovely to admire, their droppings can be a frustrating stain on outdoor surfaces, such as natural stone countertops. This guide provides instructions on how to effectively clean bird droppings from natural stone surfaces, remove persistent stains, and prevent further incidents.

Cleaning Bird Droppings from Natural Stone

Begin by removing any solid droppings with a plastic putty knife, being careful not to scratch the stone surface. Then, use a pH-neutral stone-safe cleaner and a clean rag to wash the area. If the droppings are dried on, allow the cleaner to soak for a few minutes to loosen the material before wiping.

Removing Bird Dropping Stains from Natural Stone

Create a poultice using an absorbent material, such as diatomaceous earth, flour, or paper towel, and 40 volume hydrogen peroxide (12%). Note that this type of peroxide is not typically available at drug stores and must be purchased online or at a beauty supply store. Apply the poultice to the stain, following the instructions provided in our Stain Management App.

Important Precautions

Always read the label on the chemical bottle and follow the instructions and precautions listed. If you are unsure how to use a chemical, do not proceed without proper guidance. Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you, and dispose of chemicals properly.

If the Poultice Doesn’t Work

It may take multiple poultice applications to remove a stubborn stain, but be persistent and patient. If the stain persists, it may be etching caused by uric acid in the droppings. In this case, contact a professional stone restoration contractor to restore the surface.

Preventing Bird Droppings on Natural Stone

To avoid future incidents, try moving bird feeders and baths to areas far from natural stone surfaces or removing them altogether. Discourage birds from approaching with movement and sound, such as wind chimes or flags. And when not in use, cover outdoor kitchen countertops to prevent droppings from accumulating.