can you use fogger in car

[MackenzieRose]

Using a fogger in a car, specifically an insecticide or disinfectant fogger, is generally not recommended and can be risky. While it might seem like a quick way to eliminate odors or sanitize the interior, the chemicals can damage sensitive surfaces and leave harmful residues. The safest and most effective approach involves a thorough cleaning using products designed for automotive interiors.

The primary risk involves the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and propellants in foggers. These chemicals can settle on and potentially degrade materials like the touchscreen, dashboard, upholstery, and even the car's ventilation system. Furthermore, these residues can be harmful to your health if you inhale them or they come into contact with your skin after the treatment.

If you are determined to use a fogger, strict precautions are non-negotiable. You must never be inside the vehicle when the fogger is activated. Remove all personal items, cover the dashboard and screens with towels, and follow the product's instructions precisely. Afterward, the car needs extensive ventilation with all doors open for several hours before it is safe to drive.

For most situations, alternative methods are superior.

Method	Best For	Key Consideration
Steam Cleaning	Killing germs, lifting dirt from fabrics	Effective on upholstery and carpets; avoid direct, prolonged steam on electronics.
Automotive-specific Sprays	Eliminating odors from vents and surfaces	Designed to be safe for car interiors; no risky residue.
Baking Soda	Absorbing mild, persistent odors	Sprinkle on carpets, let sit, then vacuum; completely non-toxic.
Professional Detailing	Severe smoke, mold, or biohazard odors	Highest cost but most comprehensive and guaranteed result.
Vinegar/Water Solution	Disinfecting hard surfaces	Wipe down surfaces; odor dissipates quickly.

Ultimately, the potential for damage to your car's electronics and interior materials makes foggers a poor choice for routine cleaning. Investing time in a deep clean or hiring a professional detailer is a safer, more reliable solution.

[KateRose]

I tried a fogger in my old sedan to get rid of a nasty fast-food smell. Big mistake. It left a weird chemical film on my windshield and windows that was a nightmare to wipe off. The smell was replaced by a harsh, perfumey odor that gave me a headache. I ended up just renting a carpet cleaner and shampooing the seats myself, which worked way better without the nasty side effects. I’d never use one again.

[LeSophie]

From a safety standpoint, I strongly advise against it. Foggers release a concentrated cloud of chemicals that can seep into your car’s air vents and settle on every surface. These residues are not meant for safe contact with skin or inhalation in a small, enclosed space like a car cabin. The risk of damaging your infotainment screen or causing respiratory irritation is too high. Always opt for cleaners applied directly with a cloth for control and safety.

[MaverickFitz]

Check the label on any fogger canister. You’ll likely see warnings about using it in a small, enclosed space without proper ventilation—that’s exactly what your car is. These products are designed for large, open areas like basements or warehouses where the chemicals can dissipate safely. Using one in your car is like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut; it’s overkill and you’ll probably break the nut. Use a targeted spray instead.