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Adam's Polishes

Bug Remover

alkaline-basedready-to-useprofessional-gradedanger-labelhazardous

Best Value

$0.27/oz

A high-pH alkaline bug remover designed for removing insect residue from painted surfaces, bumpers, and chrome trim.

Key Chemistry

pH Level

12.0

Active Mechanism

alkaline degreasing

Surfactants

3 (anionic, nonionic)

Dean
Dean's TakeDean's PickJan 22, 2026

Adam's Bug Remover is the product that started this entire journey. I'd had this on the shelf for about a year before trying it out. Now it's my go-to for summer bug splatter. Let it dwell for a minute and wipe off and 9 times out of 10, it gets the entire bug. So how did it all begin with Adam's Bug Remover? I wanted to know why it was so darn good, and it started me on this pathway of digging into the formulations and comparison. Thanks Adam's Polishes!

Expert Analysis

Uses sodium hydroxide at pH 12 to break down protein-based insect residue through alkaline hydrolysis. The combination of anionic and nonionic surfactants helps lift dissolved contaminants while providing wetting action on vertical surfaces. The high alkalinity makes this effective against stubborn bug deposits but requires careful handling.

Key Differentiators

  • High pH 12 formulation for aggressive protein breakdown
  • Safe for use on chrome grilles and painted surfaces when used properly

Potential Concerns

  • Will degrade non-ceramic protection like waxes and sealants
  • Not compatible with vinyl wraps of any finish type
  • Must be used on cool surfaces and cannot be allowed to dry

Ingredients

19 disclosed
2-butoxy-1-ethanol1 – < 5
CAS: 111-76-2co-solvent
sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate1 – < 5
CAS: 25155-30-0surfactant
Alcohols, C9-11 ethoxylated1 – < 5
CAS: 68439-46-3surfactant
waterN/D
CAS: 7732-18-5solvent
sodium 1-octanesulfonate - substanceN/D
CAS: 5324-84-5surfactant
benzyl benzoateN/D
CAS: 120-51-4fragrance
sodium sulfateN/D
CAS: 7757-82-6cleaning agent
propan-2-olN/D
CAS: 67-63-0alcohols
sodium hydroxideN/D
CAS: 1310-73-2pH adjusting agent
Ethyl methylphenylglycidateN/D
CAS: 77-83-8fragrance
linaloolN/D
CAS: 78-70-6fragrance
gamma UndecalactoneN/D
CAS: 104-67-6fragrance
2-tert-Butylcyclohexyl acetateN/D
CAS: 88-41-5fragrance
4-(p-Hydroxyphenyl)-2-butanoneN/D
CAS: 5471-51-2fragrance
ethyl butyrateN/D
CAS: 105-54-4fragrance

Source: sds section 3

Safety Profile

Signal Word
danger
Eye Hazard
H318 - Causes serious eye damage
Skin Hazard
H314 - Causes severe skin burns
Corrosive to Metals
No
Flammable
No

Highly alkaline formulation with corrosive properties requiring careful handling