How to Remove Winter Odors from Your Car
Musty smells, mildew, and stale air hit hard in winter. Here’s how to clear the funk and keep your car interior smelling fresh and clean.
Why Winter Makes Your Car Smell Worse
Cold weather means windows stay closed, water from slush gets trapped inside, and damp fabrics don’t dry quickly. All of that leads to musty, sour smells in your vehicle.
Step-by-Step: Odor Elimination for Winter Interiors
1. Pinpoint the Source
Check under floor mats, inside seat creases, and around the trunk area for hidden spills, wet areas, or mold growth. These often go unnoticed in winter.
2. Clean the Problem Areas
Use Complete Cabin Cleaner to tackle any fabric or hard surface odor sources. Spray directly on problem spots and agitate with a Scrub Buddy Pad.
3. Dry Everything Thoroughly
Moisture is the root of most smells. After cleaning, run your car’s heater and crack a window to vent moisture. You can also use a blower or fan to speed up drying.
4. Use a Non-Chemical Odor Neutralizer
Instead of masking odors with heavy scents, try a neutralizer. Our Air Freshies use clean scents without overpowering fragrance, making them perfect for winter use.
5. Keep Air Flowing
If your vehicle will sit for a few days, consider cracking a window slightly or placing a moisture absorber on the floor to prevent stale air and mildew smells.
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FAQs
What causes bad smells in my car during winter?
Moisture from wet clothes, boots, and slush gets trapped inside your car. That leads to mildew, musty odors, and stale air over time.
How do I dry out my car interior in cold weather?
Run the heater with windows cracked for ventilation. You can also use a portable blower or fan to circulate air and dry seats and carpets faster.
Can I use regular air fresheners to fix the smell?
Air fresheners only mask odors. Use a true odor neutralizer or clean the source of the smell using a product like Complete Cabin Cleaner.
