The Heartbreak of Love Bugs

“Bounce” those squashed love bugs off your vehicle’s grill

Courtesy UF/IFAS — Josh Wickham

It’s that time of year when these little pests are taking flight along the roads and highways and generally making a mess of cars and trucks. Highly acidic, love bug remains can pit the clear-coat paint of most vehicles if they’re not washed off within 48 hours.

One popular home remedy for removing love bugs involves Bounce fabric sheets.

“Fabric sheets do work well for taking off love bugs, but this does take some elbow grease,” said Chad Gardner of Super Suds carwash.

To use the “Bounce” method, douse the affected surface with water. Then take a Bounce dryer sheet and use a circular motion to wipe out the bug residue. Don’t use cheap dryer sheets as these may scratch the paint job. When finished, let the soapy area stand for 10 minutes, then rinse.

Gardner said love bugs need to be removed as quickly as possible.

“The Florida heat can bake the bugs into the paint in just a couple of days,” he said. “Make sure your vehicle has been waxed recently. Wax not only makes your vehicle look good, it also protects it.”

One other tip — avoid using spray-on oils such as Pam before a trip, thinking it will keep bugs from sticking to your car. “Do not ever spray Pam on your vehicle,” Gardner said. “It does not protect your paint and is very tough to get off.”

There are two love bug seasons. The first occurs from late April to May; the second, from late August to September. University of Florida scientists say they swarm around highways because they’re attracted by engine heat.