How to Get Rid of a Musty Car Smell
5 Ways to Say Goodbye to That Unpleasant Odor Once and for All
Did you just open the door of your car only to be hit by a musty, unpleasant smell? You probably had no idea where it came from but wanted it gone as quickly as possible. If that’s the situation you’re in, we’ve got some good news: Getting rid of that pesky odor isn’t as hard as you might think!
There are several proven methods of getting rid of that annoying odor and making your car’s cabin a fresh and inviting space for you and your passengers. So, roll up those windows and let’s dive into these steps to ensure your ride smells its freshest again!
- Start with a deep clean.
Remove all the trash, debris, and clutter from your car. Then, vacuum the carpets, seats, and floor mats thoroughly. Use a stiff brush to scrub any dirt or debris out of the cracks and crevices in your car’s upholstery.
- Air out your car.
The next step is to air out your car. Roll down the windows and let your car sit in the sun for a few hours. This will help to dry out any moisture that may be causing the smell. If it’s not possible to park your car in the sun, you can use a fan to circulate the air inside your car.
- Use baking soda, activated charcoal, or vinegar.
These three are natural deodorizers that can help absorb odors in your car.
- Baking soda: Sprinkle it on the carpets, seats, and floor mats and let it sit for a few hours. Vacuum up the baking soda, and the musty smell should be gone.
- Activated charcoal: Place a few activated charcoal bags in your vehicle and keep them there for a day or two. They will absorb the moldy odor. You can reuse them by placing them in the sun for a few hours to recharge.
- Vinegar: Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle, and spray the solution on your car’s carpets, seats, and floor mats. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a clean cloth. The vinegar smell may be strong at first, but it will dissipate as it dries.
- Use an odor eliminator.
If the musty smell persists, you can use an odor eliminator. You can find many odor-eliminator products on the market that can help neutralize musty odors. Make sure to choose one that’s designed for cars and follow the instructions on the label.
- Check for leaks.
If you’ve tried all the above steps and the musty smell still lingers, there’s a chance that you have a leak in your car that’s causing moisture to accumulate. Inspect your automobile for leaks in windows, doors, and the roof. In case you find one, have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Do You Have More Serious Car Problems?
If the unpleasant odor inside your car is the least of your concerns, if your ride is facing more serious issues that require costly repairs that you can’t afford, you may be better off without it.
You can still put that car to good use though when you donate it to us at Kids Car Donations. We will use your vehicle to provide medical assistance to the indigent children in your community who are suffering from serious health issues.
Our team will auction off your donated vehicle and use the proceeds to support the pediatric programs and services of our charity partners. These IRS-certified 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations use the funding we give them to provide free treatments and therapies to needy young patients, alleviate the pain of those confined in hospitals and improve their quality of life, and save the lives of those who are critically ill.
You will also personally benefit from your donation since this will provide you the opportunity to slash your tax bill. You’ll get this when you receive the 100% tax-deductible sales receipt that we will send you once your donated vehicle is sold at auction. The receipt will serve as your ticket for claiming the highest possible tax deduction based on the selling price of your vehicle or its fair market value.
On top of these material rewards, you’ll also enjoy that priceless feeling of satisfaction, knowing that your gift will be used to help children needing urgent medical care.
We’re not picky with vehicle donations. Feel free to donate an unwanted car, truck, van, RV, boat, or nearly any other type of vehicle. We’ll take your donation as it is regardless of its age or working condition.
For more information about our car donation program, check out our FAQs page. If you have questions, you may call us through our toll-free hotline at 866-634-8395 or contact us online.
You can make your car donation by filling out our secure online donation form here or calling us directly. We accept donations of almost all types of vehicles anywhere in the United States since we have vehicle donation programs in all 50 states.
Transform Your Clunker into a Life-Saving Tool Today!
Your vehicle donation can help sick youngsters in your area regain their health. Who knows, you might just be the hero they’ve been waiting for. Call Kids Car Donations at 866-634-8395 or fill out our secure online donation form now!