What are the solutions for strong new car odor?
3 Answers
Solutions for strong new car odor include: 1. Keep windows open for extended periods to allow the smell to gradually dissipate; 2. Use activated charcoal to absorb harmful gases when the car is not in use. If the odor doesn't improve after some time, replace the charcoal promptly. It's recommended to use at least 3 packs of activated charcoal per vehicle; 3. Use a car air purifier, preferably one with replaceable filters for repeated use; 4. Place pomelo peels in the car to absorb formaldehyde, though this is only effective short-term. Pomelo peels have a natural mild fragrance, unlike the strong scent of perfumes.
As a car owner, the new car smell is really a headache, especially when there are elderly and children in the car. I often open all the windows for about ten minutes before driving to let fresh air flush through the interior. When parking, I choose a shady spot and don’t completely close the windows, leaving a small gap for ventilation. I bought activated charcoal bags from Taobao and placed them on the seats to absorb odors—they work well but need to be taken out and sun-dried monthly to restore their adsorption capacity. Additionally, cleaning the seats and dashboard surfaces can reduce odor sources. The plastic smell in new cars comes from material volatiles, which are more easily released in hot weather, so I ventilate more frequently in summer. Taking a few long drives also helps as the increased airflow speeds up odor dissipation. Combining these methods, the smell becomes much lighter within a week—the key is persistence for the health of my family.
The new car smell was strong, and I handled it decisively. The primary method is ventilation—fully opening the windows while driving to let the wind blow through, and leaving a small gap when parking to let the air circulate. I bought some small activated charcoal bags and placed them in every corner of the car to absorb odors—simple and hassle-free. If in a hurry to eliminate the smell, I used professional formaldehyde-removing spray on the floor mats and steering wheel, but made sure to choose eco-friendly brands to avoid harming my health. The new car odor mainly comes from the volatilization of plastic adhesives at high temperatures, so avoid exposing the interior to direct sunlight to reduce emission sources. It naturally dissipates after a month or two. My personal experience is that ventilation comes first, supplemented by adsorption materials—safe and efficient.
