I've tried several bug removers without a lot of success... at least to my mind. They kind-of worked but required multiple applications and waiting for the remover to soften up the remnants. But even after softening them up, I still couldn't just wash them off with my car-wash brush. I no longer bother with the bug-remover.
I first wash off as many bugs as I can with my wet-and-soapy car wash brush and perhaps make a pass with the car-wash mitt. There will still be many remnants, of course. I then use a Magic Eraser foam block to attack the remnants. I've been pleasantly surprised how well that works but it's not just a swipe-and-they're-gone thing. The question, then, is whether it's safe for the finish on the vehicle.
If you read up on Magic Erasers ( at
How do Magic Erasers Get Rid of Stains?, for example), you'll see a warning about using them on delicate finishes and detail on a discredited internet rumor about them having formaldehyde in them. Page 2 of the article describes how they work in detail.
I've not had problems with using them on my vehicles but will note I also subscribe to the theory that the bugs will come off better from a waxed surface. So I spray on bit of spray-wax after cleaning the bugs off in preparation for next time. Hopefully the wax does two jobs. The bugs don't stick as well and the wax protects the paint from the Magic Eraser (not to mention the scouring it gets from wind and dust as you drive).
If you have any concerns about using a Magic Eraser, you might take the advice in the clip at the end of this post. It's from a west-coast mobile detailer and recommends using a micro-fiber cloth for bug removal.
I get the Magic Eraser foam blocks at my local Walmart, either the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or the store-brand version if it's available.
I'd also mention the wonderful, wonderful Internet also has other options for us to try. If anyone has experience with them, please comment. I have no experience with them and wonder if there are downsides to them....
-- dryer toss-in: Using an old Windex-type spray bottle, put in water and drop in a dryer toss-in (Bounce, etc). Spray the bug remnants with that and use another toss-in to rub away the bug remnants. Also supposedly works on tar.
-- hydrogen peroxide: Lots of recommendations on motorcycle sites for spraying the remnants with hydrogen peroxide and watching the remnants foam up for a bit before just washing them off. Often recommended for getting off love bugs but also for bugs in general.
-OC