Recapturing that new car smell is one of those elusive tasks we are always trying to accomplish from the day we drive the vehicle off of the dealership lot. To restore your interior with an odor that is pleasant and fresh, there are numerous things you can do to ensure this goal is reached.

Vacuuming

Utilizing a high powered vacuum is the first step in producing a car that smells new. Every square inch of the cabin should be combed over, including the cracks and crevices between the seats as well as the center console and dashboard. After vacuuming the carpet mats, should you have them, remove them from the vehicle entirely.

“With the use of car recommended shampoo or staining foams, wash the seats in your automobile extensively. It is wise to take your time on this task to guarantee that you have gotten rid of as many foul elements as possible”

Eliminate Current Odor

After you have thoroughly vacuumed your car, place a baking soda deodorizer in the vehicle overnight. The purpose of this is that the ingredients in baking soda counteract pungent smells and eradicate them if they are not too embedded into the fabric or upholstery. Remember, even if your car does not smell, using these deodorizers will help reduce unwanted dander in the air.

Shampoo Interior And Carpet Mats

With the use of car recommended shampoo or staining foams, wash the seats in your automobile extensively. It is wise to take your time on this task to guarantee that you have gotten rid of as many foul elements as possible. If possible, apply soap to your carpet mats outside of the vehicle. This allows for easier washing so you do not have to bend down at awkward angles. In some cases you can machine wash mats, but do some research on your make and model before embarking on this to be certain it will not destroy them.

Wipe The Upholstery

Using vehicle approved upholstery detergents, apply them using a soft microfiber towel. You should instantly smell the difference within the cabin (as well as witness the shine) with the application of these chemicals. It is important to point out that it is not in your best interest to use cleaners that are not tailor made for cars. This is because vehicle approved agents bond with the upholstery to not only make them sparkle, but embed their appealing smells.

Wash The Windows

With certified glass cleaner, softly wipe each applicable surface with the same aforementioned towel, being careful to avoid streaking. The odor from window cleaners fades the most quickly, however you still want to make each surface clean so that a fresh smell will not battle the foreign debris that was on them previously.

Strategically Place Air Fresheners

Whether it be under your mats (if using spray), in your center console, or clipped on to your air conditioner vents, place an air freshener with your desired scent. If you are truly seeking that ‘new car’ smell, most auto care outlets provide this exact odor as indicated on the packaging.

Conclusion

While these steps can help you in recovering a fresh car, the only way to truly replicate this scent is to have your vehicle serviced by professional auto detailers. With the help of an expert, they can use agents that clean far more efficiently than the materials you can acquire from department stores. Additionally, the pros can notify you of a potential problem under the hood that could be causing the foul smell to begin with, as they are not always derived from dirt.