If you’ve ever bought a used car, you know that sometimes they can come with an unwelcome surprise: an unpleasant odor. Whether it’s a musty smell from years of sitting in a garage or the lingering scent of cigarettes from a previous owner, getting rid of a bad used cars in sacramento smell can seem daunting. But don’t worry; there are a few simple things you can do to eliminate that unwanted odor for good.
Here are a few tips on how to eliminate the used car odor:
1. Air it out
You’ll first want to open all the doors and windows of the car and let it air out for a few hours. Then, if possible, park the car in a sunny spot so that the heat can help to speed up the process.
Another way to air out the car is to place a bowl of baking soda inside, which will absorb any bad odors. Just be sure to remove the bowl of baking soda after a few hours.
2. Clean the car
The next step is to thoroughly clean the car, paying special attention to areas where there might be built-up dirt or grime. This includes the carpets, upholstery, and headliner.
If the car has leather seats, you’ll also want to clean and condition the leather to help eliminate any bad smells.
It might be best to take it to a professional detailer for a deep cleaning, but you can also do it yourself with a little elbow grease.
3. Use an odor eliminator
There are various products on the market specifically designed to eliminate bad smells from cars. These products usually come in a spray or gel, and they work by neutralizing the odors rather than masking them.
One popular brand is Ozium, which can be found at most auto parts stores. It works quickly and effectively to eliminate bad smells and is also great for preventing new odors from taking hold.
4. Consider an ozone generator
If you’re serious about getting rid of a bad car smell, you might consider using an ozone generator. Ozone generators create ozone, a powerful oxidizer that can neutralize even the most pungent odors.
Just be sure to use an ozone generator with caution, as too much ozone can harm your health. Something else to keep in mind is that ozone generators can be expensive, so this might not be the best option if you’re on a budget.
However, it could be a wise investment if you’re dealing with a particularly bad odor problem.
5. Try charcoal
We’re not talking about the kind you use for grilling, but rather activated charcoal, a type of carbon that’s been treated to make it extremely porous. This makes it great for absorbing bad odors, which is why it’s often used in water filters.
You can buy activated charcoal at most pet stores; all you need to do is place a few pieces in the car. Just be sure to change it every few days, as the charcoal will eventually become saturated and ineffective.
If you have a stinky car, don’t despair. You can get rid of that bad smell for good with a little effort. If your nose can’t take it anymore, try one of these tips and breathe easy.
