7 Simple Ways to Eliminate the New Car Smell

Here's a guide on how to get rid of the new car smell as quickly as possible, with cleaning techniques and info on absorbing the odor.
Written by Rochelle Miller-Hernandez
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
background
The new car smell is a favorite amongst car buyers, but for some people, it can be annoying or even nauseating.
You just
bought a new car
. and now you're wondering how to get rid of the new car smell. You're not alone. While many love the odor that accompanies a new ride, many struggle with finding a way to quickly eliminate it. It even makes some people sick.
These techniques should even help get rid of other undesirable smells, such as
dead animal smells
and
vomit odor
.
Here are a few tips that will help the new car smell fade faster.
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Roll down your windows to let the new car smell escape

Airing out your car is one of the best ways to help eliminate the new car smell. The odor
originates from compounds
in the materials used in the manufacturing of your car.
Opening your window and making sure your airflow is not set to recirculate will get fresh air in while flushing out the stale air out.

Get a professional detail

If you have the money, consider having a professional detailing company clean your car. They will wipe down all the surfaces, blow out your vents, and steam clean and vacuum your carpets and seats.
If you have the time and energy, you can
do the work yourself
and get the same results.

Bake out the smell

The compounds in the materials causing the smell can be "baked out" with heat. The most economic way to do this is to park in a sunny location.
Once situated, slightly roll down the windows and leave the car in the sun for a couple hours. Afterwards, wipe down the interior with a microfiber cloth. You can repeat this a few times, but don’t do it too often or it can lead to
heat damage to the dash and fade the paint
.

Use baking soda to absorb the car smell

Just like baking soda absorbs the smells in your refrigerator, it can help rid your vehicle of the new car smell.
Open a box and place it in an open container that won’t allow it to spill all over your carpet. If the smell still lingers after a few days, replace the box with a new one.

Use a white vinegar solution

Mix one part vinegar to two parts water in a bowl or pail. Using a microfiber cloth, wipe down the interior of your vehicle with the mixture.
It is best to use a microfiber cloth, but you can use a sponge or other soft cloth, too. Make sure to dry right away to avoid mold or moisture damage. Vinegar also absorbs odor, so you can fill a container with holes in the lid and place in the car where it won’t spill.

Charcoal can also absorb odors

Like baking soda, charcoal is great for absorbing odors. You can buy charcoal in a mesh bag made specifically to absorb smells or you can use the charcoal you have for your grill.
Place it in a container with holes in the lid so it can do its work. Replace it as needed and you should start to notice the smell fading away.

Air freshener

If the new car smell is really bothering you, you can place an air fresher in the car while you wait for the other techniques to work to rid your car of odor altogether. You can use a store-bought fragrance freshener, purchase an industrial strength eliminator, or even
make your own
. However, keep in mind these can be quite strong as well.
While these tips will help you get rid of the new car smell, the truth of the matter is it takes time. Whether a few weeks or a few months, the odor will eventually leave on its own.
And though you may not want the new car smell around, you'll probably want to protect your shiny new ride. Just use the
Jerry
super app, and you can get estimates from top insurance providers in less than a minute, hassle-free!

FAQ

What is the new car smell spray that dealerships use?

That familiar new car smell is an air freshener solution based on ozium. The scent was first devised in the 1940s, and it's been a hit in new cars since then.
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