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How to Get Smoke Smell Out of a Car

When you buy a used car, you’re getting a high-quality model (assuming you’ve done your research) for a price that suits your budget. However, sometimes used cars run just fine, but come with a few imperfections, thanks to their previous owners. One common problem is the lingering smell of smoke. Smoke soaks into surfaces like cloth upholstery and removing it can be tricky. Learn how to get smoke smell out of a car with FIAT of Tacoma’s tips below, and make your car’s cabin smell fresh and clean.

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How to Get Rid of Smoke Smell in a Car: Cloth Upholstery

When it comes to removing the smoke smell from cloth upholstery, you’ll follow different steps than you would if you were cleaning leather. To start, gather baking soda and a vacuum. Then, follow these steps:

  1. Thoroughly vacuum the carpet and upholstery. Vacuum under the seats and in the crevices, too. This helps pick up any old ashes that may still be sitting in the interior.
  2. When you’re finished vacuuming, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the upholstery and carpet. Baking soda is a powerful odor neutralizer and can trap smells like cigarette smoke.
  3. After you’ve given the baking soda time to sit, use the vacuum and pick it up. If you can still smell smoke, lay down some more baking soda and repeat the process. For even better results, try leaving an open box of baking soda in your vehicle for a day or two to absorb the smell.

How to Get Rid of Smoke Smell in a Car: Leather Seating

Smoke can also soak into leather interior surfaces. If your car has leather seats and/or leather interior trim, you’ll need a specially formulated cleaner for leather. Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your car:

  1. Using the cleaner, clean the surfaces inside your car to help pull the smoke out of the fibers.
  2. If the scent of smoke is still lingering, complete as many cleanings as necessary to remove the smoke residue as much as possible.

How to Get Cigarette Smell Out of Car Air Filters & More

Once you’ve cleaned your car’s upholstery, trim, and carpeting, what’s left? The windows, windshield, and especially the air filter can hold onto bad smells. Wipe down your windows and windshield, then replace the air filter, so you and your passengers can enjoy clean air as you cruise through Seattle.

Shop Reliable Used Cars at FIAT of Tacoma!

Ready to start shopping for an affordable and clean-smelling used vehicle for sale near Olympia and Lakewood? Contact us at FIAT of Tacoma to learn more about our inventory and pre-owned vehicle specials. Looking for cars with even lower prices? Explore our under-$10K inventory!

FIAT of Tacoma 47.2223832, -122.4842539.