How to Eliminate New Car Smell: Freshen Your Interior for a Clean Start

Anh Tuan, owner of a grocery store on Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, recently purchased a new Hyundai Porter truck to facilitate goods transportation. His initial joy was soon replaced by concern over the strong, lingering new car smell. He tried various methods like parking in the sun, using air fresheners, and placing coffee grounds inside, but the odor persisted.

Anh Tuan’s experience is not uncommon. So, what’s the most effective way to get rid of new car smell? Let’s explore some solutions with Xe Tai Ha Noi!

Why Do New Cars Have That Unpleasant Smell?

The unpleasant odor in new cars often stems from:

• Chemicals: Adhesives, plastics, leather, and fabrics used in the car’s interior manufacturing process contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
• Mold and Mildew: During transportation and storage, the enclosed space within the car can become damp, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and unpleasant smells.

Effective and Safe Ways to Remove New Car Smell

1. Natural Ventilation

• Park the car in a shaded, well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight.
• Open all doors and windows, including the trunk, for 15-20 minutes to allow air circulation.
• Repeat this daily, especially after long drives.

2. Using Natural Remedies

• Activated Carbon: Place bags of activated carbon inside the car to absorb odors and moisture.
• Citrus Peels: Place fresh orange or tangerine peels inside the car for a natural, pleasant fragrance.
• Coffee Grounds: Place bags of dry coffee grounds in the car to neutralize odors and absorb moisture.

A bag of activated carbon placed in a car to absorb odors and moisture

3. Using Specialized Odor Eliminators

• Choose odor eliminator sprays from reputable brands that are safe for health.
• Spray the solution on odor-prone areas, such as floor mats and seats.
• Close the car doors for about 30 minutes, then open them to air out any remaining spray smell.

4. Using an Air Purifier

• Air purifiers effectively remove dust, bacteria, mold, and odors.
• Choose an air purifier suitable for the size of your car.

An air purifier in a car

Expert Advice from Le Van Nam, Automotive Engineer at Hyundai Giai Phong: “In addition to implementing odor removal methods, car owners should regularly clean the car’s interior to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, which can cause unpleasant smells.”

Important Considerations When Removing New Car Smell

• Avoid using room air fresheners to mask new car smell, as they can cause discomfort and nausea.
• Avoid leaving strong-smelling food items in the car for extended periods.
• Regularly clean the car’s interior to ensure a consistently clean and fresh environment.