Keeping your car clean isn’t just about how it looks, it’s also about how it smells! But let’s be honest, it’s not easy keeping it smelling fresh. Throw in a few kids, the family dog, the accidental window you left open overnight in the pouring rain, and the car can get smelly fast. Fortunately, there are many potential fixes for the problem — and some of them are inexpensive and chemical-free. Following are five do-it-yourself ways to get your ride smelling swell.
1. Use coffee beans
Who doesn’t love the smell of their coffee brewing in the morning? You can keep that smell going all day by creating a DIY air freshener for your car with items you already have at home. A medium-sized bag of whole Arabica coffee beans costs about $6 and will fill your car with a delicious, sweet aroma that can last for up to one week — all without using any artificial scents (this is perfect if you’re sensitive to perfumes). Simply put coffee beans or ground coffee into a sock and leave it under the passenger seat.
2. Use an air freshener and essential oils
Oils like pine, cinnamon, lemon and eucalyptus are naturally antibacterial and antifungal. This means they keep surfaces in your car free of germs and also help mask any bad smells. Additionally, oils like lemon and eucalyptus are good for the mind. Add your favourite essential oil to cotton balls or pompoms and glue them to a clothespin. Then clip the clothespin to one of the car’s vents. When you turn on the heat or air conditioning, the scent spreads throughout the car.
3. Use baking soda
Opt for baking soda instead of commercial air fresheners since it’s completely non-toxic and environmentally friendly. It will neutralize odours and also helps neutralize any bacteria that may be on your vehicle’s surface. Simply put some baking soda in a mason jar and cover it with a cardboard lid with holes in it. Choose a size that fits in your car’s cup holders. Odours will come in, but they won’t come out! Add a few drops of essential oil for an added punch.
4. Use lemon juice (in moderation)
You can get rid of nasty smells without having to resort to harsh chemical cleaners, by sprinkling a few drops of lemon juice onto a cotton ball or washcloth and placing it under the passenger seat. Lemon juice is capable of absorbing and neutralizing odours. Keep in mind, however, that because it’s a natural acid, it can damage your car’s leather seats or upholstery if left on them too long.
5. Use dryer sheets
Dryer sheets are the go-to for eliminating odours in cars because of their chemical-free effectiveness. If you do a lot of laundry, you already have a supply at your disposal. Cut up a few dryer sheets and put them in multiple locations in your car and let them work their magic!
These are great alternatives to make your car smell good! They don’t cost much at all, so you can experiment till you find one that works best for your car.
