How to Remove Winter Odors from Your Car (Salt, Slush & Funky Smells Gone)
Winter leaves behind more than just salt stains — it traps in stale, funky odors from wet carpets, damp air, and built-up grime. Let’s fix that.
Why Your Car Smells After Winter
Moisture from snow, slush, and wet boots seeps into your floor mats and carpet. That moisture mixes with salt and grime, creating a perfect breeding ground for mildew and odors.
Step 1: Deep Clean the Source of the Smell
Start by vacuuming your interior thoroughly. Then use Complete Cabin Cleaner to clean high-traffic odor zones — like carpets, seat bolsters, cupholders, and around the pedals.
Step 2: Dry Out Any Moisture Trapped in Carpets
If your carpets feel damp, blot them dry with microfiber towels and leave your windows cracked slightly in a sunny spot. You can also run a fan or small dehumidifier if needed.
Step 3: Neutralize Odors with a Freshener
Once the source is clean and dry, use Jimbo’s Air Freshies to deodorize the cabin. Avoid overpowering sprays — a subtle, fresh scent works best after deep cleaning.
Step 4: Replace Cabin Air Filter (Optional but Recommended)
If you’re still getting funk when your AC or heater runs, it could be your cabin air filter. Replace it if it hasn’t been changed in over a year.
Top Products to Fix Winter Odors
Related Posts
- Remove Salt Stains from Your Car Carpets
- How to Prep Your Car’s Interior for Spring
- Winter Car Interior Maintenance Checklist
FAQs
What causes the winter smell in cars?
Moisture and salt from snow create trapped humidity and mildew buildup. When this gets into fabric and air vents, it starts to stink fast.
Will air freshener cover winter odors?
Temporarily, yes — but you need to clean and dry the source first. Otherwise, the smell just comes back worse.
Can I remove winter smells without shampooing my whole car?
Yes. Focus on spot-cleaning trouble areas with Complete Cabin Cleaner and drying thoroughly. You can get 90% of the way there in 30 minutes.
