Can Sun Exposure Remove Odors Inside a Car?
3 Answers
Sun exposure cannot remove odors inside a car. Most of the materials used in car interiors are plastic, while high-end cars may use some genuine leather materials. Whether plastic or leather, prolonged exposure to the sun will accelerate the aging of these materials, potentially causing deformation in severe cases and leading to enlarged gaps in the interior, which can produce unpleasant noises while driving. Sources of car odors: Floor mats and window films are also major sources of odors inside a car. When installing floor mats and window films, it is advisable to choose high-quality, odor-free products. Additionally, driving with windows open more often and using the air conditioning less can help reduce odors. After a car has been exposed to the sun: Before driving, open all four doors to thoroughly ventilate the car, allowing the hot air and odors inside to dissipate.
Sun exposure does help remove certain odors, primarily by using high temperatures to accelerate the release of volatile substances like formaldehyde. Last summer, I tried leaving my newly purchased car under the midday sun for three hours, and the leather smell noticeably faded. However, don’t expect it to solve all odor issues—for problems like rotting food residue or moldy air conditioning smells, sun exposure can actually worsen the sour stench. It’s better to crack the windows slightly for ventilation, which enhances the effect. Moreover, prolonged sun exposure can cause interior materials to deteriorate—my neighbor’s dashboard even cracked from sun damage, which isn’t worth the trade-off. For best results, pair sun exposure with activated charcoal bags, replacing them every two weeks. This protects the interior while continuously absorbing odors.
As a parent who frequently picks up kids from school, I've researched various odor removal methods. Sun exposure can temporarily reduce plastic odors, but it's almost ineffective against cigarette smoke or milk stains in the car. Once when my child spilled yogurt, the fermented sour smell became even more pungent after sun exposure. Through practical testing, I found the most effective methods are: ① Remove all floor mats and sun them separately outside the vehicle during exposure ② Turn on the AC's external circulation at maximum fan speed for 10 minutes ③ Place small boxes of baking soda under the seats. Special attention should be paid to the fact that the car interior becomes like a steamer after sun exposure - plastic components in child safety seats may release BPA, so it's best to wipe them with a damp cloth before letting children sit.
