How to Remove Severe Odors in an Old Car?
3 Answers
Methods to remove odors from the car include: frequently opening the windows for ventilation, turning on the windows and blower for air exchange after entering the car, and driving for at least 10 minutes before closing the windows and turning on the air conditioning; bamboo charcoal bags can have some effect, but they should be replaced in time to avoid becoming a new source of pollution; placing fruits like bananas and pineapples in the car can also help purify the air, but they should be placed away from direct sunlight. Below is additional information: 1. Sources of odors: plastic and rubber materials used extensively in car interiors gradually release into the car environment during use; odors caused by the air filter; odors caused by the evaporator. 2. Photocatalyst: Photocatalyst for formaldehyde removal, photocatalyst is a widely used method for formaldehyde removal. Photocatalyst is a catalyst that undergoes a catalytic reaction under ultraviolet light, eliminating formaldehyde in the air.
I've been driving an old car for ten years and often deal with odor issues. Every time I notice a strong smell, I start with cleaning, thoroughly vacuuming food debris from the seats and carpet corners. Then, I spray a homemade vinegar solution (one part white vinegar to one part water), let it sit for half an hour, wipe it dry, and leave the windows open for ventilation for most of the day. I place a few activated charcoal bags on the back seats to absorb stubborn odor sources. I also check if the air conditioning filter is moldy and replace it myself if necessary. Keeping the car dry is key—don't close the windows too tightly on rainy days, and wash the car regularly to prevent mold. The aging plastic parts in old cars also emit odors, so adding some lemon peels to absorb the smell is a more cost-effective solution.
I'm an eco-conscious car owner who prefers natural odor removal methods. My go-to is the sun-and-ventilation approach—parking outdoors on weekends with windows open for hours to let UV rays disinfect and eliminate musty smells. I place several activated charcoal packets or bamboo charcoal bags inside to absorb smoke and residual exhaust fumes. Occasionally, I toss some orange peels or coffee grounds on the floor mats for natural fragrance in an eco-friendly way. For long-term care, maintaining interior cleanliness is key—avoid leaving perishable food and regularly clean AC vents. Adding a small potted plant like spider plants not only purifies the air but also enhances aesthetics, making it a healthy and simple solution.
