How to Remove Tree Sap From a Convertible Top

Trees may be beautiful, but one of the drawbacks of trees is sap. No matter how hard you try, there may come a time when you are left no other choice but to park under a tree. Parking under a tree can wreck havoc on your vehicle. The tree sap that is necessary for the life of the plant, can be difficult to remove from hoods and convertible tops. Simply washing the convertible top will not remove the sticky sap. Tree sap should be removed as soon as possible to prevent damage to the convertible top.

Fingernail Polish Remover

Saturate a cotton ball with fingernail polish remover. Rub the cotton ball directly on the tree sap on the convertible top. Leave the cotton ball on the sap for several minutes until the nail polish remover has thoroughly soaked into the sap stain.

Rub the tree sap with the saturated cotton ball until you have removed the sap.

Combine three parts of baking soda with one part of water to create a paste. Dip a dampened cloth in the paste and scrub the area of the convertible top that was affected by the tree sap.

Rinse the convertible top with a water hose.

Mineral Spirits

Wear rubber gloves and pour mineral spirits in a small container.

Dip a cloth in the mineral spirits. Rub the tree sap in a circular motion until you have removed the sap from the convertible top.

Rinse the convertible top with a water hose and wash your car as you normally would.

Bug and Tar Remover

Saturate a cloth with bug and tar remover. Rub the tree sap off the convertible top with the cloth in a circular motion. Continue rubbing the sap until it is removed. Bug and tar remover can be purchased at auto supply stores or home improvement centers.

Rinse the bug and tar remover off the convertible top with a water hose.

Wash and wax your vehicle as you normally would.