What is the most effective method to remove odors from a new car?
4 Answers
Methods to remove odors from a new car are as follows: 1. Ventilation: Within the first six months of purchasing a new car or after adding decorations, develop the habit of driving with windows slightly open to maintain fresh air circulation inside the car. 2. High-temperature exposure: High temperatures can accelerate the release of harmful substances and odors. In summer, leaving all four car doors wide open under the sun can effectively eliminate odors. However, this method is only suitable for new cars. In older cars, formaldehyde has entered a 'latent phase,' and exposure to high temperatures may cause stable materials to release harmful substances again, potentially damaging the car's paint. 3. Choose reliable car accessories: Some low-quality manufacturers produce floor mats with excessively strong odors. Therefore, be cautious when selecting car accessories. Opt for fabric seat covers that do not require adhesives, and choose floor mats made from healthy TPE material, which is popular in Europe and America. 4. Pomelo peel deodorization: Clever car owners often place pomelo peels inside their cars, believing that more peels mean better formaldehyde removal. In reality, pomelo peels and vinegar rely on their own scents to mask odors, which can help eliminate smells but are ineffective in removing formaldehyde. 5. Activated carbon and photocatalysts: To remove formaldehyde from the car, activated carbon can be placed to absorb it, but a sufficient quantity is needed to be effective. Other high-cost methods include using photocatalysts and installing car air purifiers. Whether these methods are worth it is a matter of personal opinion.
When I first bought my new car, the smell of plastic and glue inside gave me a headache. Ventilation is the simplest and most effective solution. Every morning when starting the car, I would first roll down the windows for 10 minutes—especially in summer when heat accelerates evaporation—to let fresh air circulate. I also placed activated charcoal bags under the seats and on the floor to quietly absorb harmful molecules. I don’t recommend using air fresheners to mask the odor, as they may irritate the respiratory system or create a false sense of improvement. After getting the new car, try to park it in the shade to avoid direct sunlight, as high temperatures can amplify unpleasant smells. On weekends, spend some time airing it out with all doors and windows open for half a day. After a few weeks of persistence, the odor noticeably faded. The key is patience—don’t rush to drive with the windows up. From a health perspective, VOCs in new cars may cause discomfort, but long-term habits make a big difference.
As a parent with young children, I am particularly sensitive to the smell of new cars and worry about its impact on my child's health. Efficient odor removal relies on activated charcoal and bamboo charcoal bags—buy several and place them in various corners of the car to gradually absorb those chemicals. Ventilation is absolutely essential; I open the windows for half an hour during the cooler mornings and evenings, avoiding recirculation mode to prevent trapping exhaust fumes. Avoid chemical air fresheners and opt for natural alternatives like lemon peels, which both eliminate odors and add a fresh scent. After purchasing a new car, promptly clean the interior using mild detergent to wipe down the dashboard and seats. Health comes first—I recommend not taking children on long trips in a new car for the first month until the smell fades. From a cost perspective, charcoal bags are inexpensive, eco-friendly, and long-lasting.
I prefer natural methods to tackle new car odors, which are cost-effective and eco-friendly. Placing sliced lemons or grapefruit peels in the car for a few days helps, as the natural fruit acids effectively break down unpleasant smells. Coffee grounds also work well due to their strong absorption. Ventilation is key—opening the windows briefly every day for fresh air accelerates gas dissipation. Avoid using any plastic covers to minimize secondary pollution. New car odors come from material off-gassing but will naturally fade over a few months. Don’t rush to use industrial products—they aren’t good for health. Simple habits combined with time yield steady results.
