How to Keep Your Car Smelling Good: Remove Odors for Good

How do I get rid of bad smells in my car?

Find and remove the source first (food, spills, damp carpet, pets). Then vacuum, clean, and use baking soda or activated charcoal for lingering odors. Replace a dirty cabin air filter if the AC smells musty.

Fragrance is the last step, not the first.

Step 1: find the source

• Check under seats, in door pockets and the trunk.
• Lift mats and press carpets to find damp spots.
• Check for leaks and wet carpet after rain.
• Smell the vents with the AC on and off.

Step 2: clean and neutralize

1. Remove trash and vacuum thoroughly.
2. Clean spills with a cleaner suited to the surface, and dry fully.
3. Sprinkle baking soda on fabric, wait several hours, then vacuum.
4. Leave activated charcoal in a small container in the car.
5. Wash or replace floor mats.

Damp carpet breeds mold, so dry it quickly and fix the leak.

Musty smell from the AC

A musty smell often comes from a dirty cabin air filter or moisture in the AC system. Replace the cabin filter on schedule (see how often to replace air filters), and ask a shop to clean the evaporator if the smell continues.

About ozone treatments

Ozone generators can remove some odors but ozone is a lung irritant. If a professional uses one, keep the car unoccupied and ventilate fully before driving.

Keep it fresh

Empty trash often, wipe spills fast, and keep the interior dry. Combine this with the routine in how to keep your car clean.

Car odor FAQ