How Long Does the Fishy Smell of Seafood Last in the Car?
2 Answers
There is no definitive answer to how long odors dissipate inside a car. It is recommended that car owners regularly open windows for ventilation and place odor-absorbing plants in the car to eliminate smells. Ventilation Method: Develop the habit of driving with windows slightly open to maintain a continuous flow of fresh air inside the car. Charcoal Method: Wrap purchased black charcoal in clean, breathable gauze and place it in the trunk of the car. The charcoal can absorb odors present in the car. Fruit Method: You can place lemons or pineapples inside the car. Cutting them open will allow their fruity fragrance to evaporate effectively, counteracting the odors in the car.
Last time I accidentally spilled some seafood juice in my car, and that fishy smell was really unbearable—it took a full three days to mostly dissipate. The key is ventilation: I immediately rolled down all the windows and turned on the AC's external circulation mode to speed up airflow. Parking under the sun also helped, as the heat evaporated some of the odor. The car seats are fabric, which easily absorbs smells, so I wiped them down with a vinegar-water solution. Warm, dry conditions speed up the process, while cold and damp weather makes it harder. I recommend cleaning up any residue immediately and using activated charcoal bags to absorb lingering odors. Delaying treatment can prolong the smell for over a week. Since then, I always keep some air fresheners in the car to prevent similar situations.
