Removing Smells from a Car

Some smells may be discernible when driving through certain areas.

A long drive will become almost unbearable if something in the car doesn’t smell right. And while there are many potential culprits, there are just as many ways to banish the odors.

Here are some failsafe methods to get rid of unwanted smells from cars.

Immediate smells

Some smells may be discernible when driving through certain areas. Perhaps there’s a sewage leak or spilled trash nearby. If the odor is indeed localized, distance and time resolve the problem.

Cigarettes

Tobacco is more than the smoke inside the vehicle. Over time, tar and other residues will stick to the interior, particularly the upholstery. Vinegar and charcoal help absorb the odor. Car owners should wipe down surfaces with a water and vinegar mix. If the owner has smoked in the car for years, they should consider professional deep-cleaning the upholstery and vents to remove the residual odor.

Mildew and damp

Mildew and moisture are persistent problems for vehicle interiors in wet and cold climates. Moisture from shoes or a leaky window manifests into a lingering musty odor. It’s essential to clean these areas quickly. Carpets should be removed and aired out, but upholstery will need a wet or dry vacuum to suck up the moisture. Note that applying baking soda beforehand can help with the odor.

Air conditioner

When turned on, the air conditioner can attract a buildup of dust and mold, giving the car a damp smell. Excess water from the system may also leak inside a vehicle, causing further odors. It’s vital to get the air conditioning system cleaned and inspected every few years to keep this odor at bay.

Dangerous smells

Some odors go beyond being merely unpleasant. The smell of sulfur akin to rotten eggs could mean a leak in the catalytic converter, which handles dangerous gases like carbon monoxide. A persistent smell of fuel could also mean a leak in the car’s fuel system and requires immediate attention.

Preventing odor

Cars accumulate many odors over time, from body sweat to fast food. Air fresheners are a quick way to mask smells, but other effective solutions exist, like ground coffee or laundry detergent bottles. Vinegar, baking soda, and charcoal are cost-effective solutions for deodorizing a vehicle.

Smells that persist

Persistent odors are a sign of a deeper problem. When cleaning a car, checking hidden or difficult-to-reach places is a good idea. In corners and under seats are prime areas for smells to fester. It’s also a good idea to hire a professional cleaner to deep-clean a car’s interior, as their equipment can be more effective and thorough than ordinary household products could ever be.

Desert Shield is a Phoenix auto detailing and cleaning service specializing in interior and exterior car cleaning to create the perfect finish and shine. Call us at (623) 283-2249.