how to get cigar smell out of car

That lingering aroma of a cigar in your car is more than just a smell; it’s a stubborn guest that has overstayed its welcome. Unlike cigarette smoke, cigar smoke is thicker and carries a heavier, more pungent odor that clings to every surface—the upholstery, the headliner, and even the vents. If you’ve found yourself wondering how to get cigar smell out of car, you know it requires a bit more effort than just rolling down the windows.

Start with a Deep Clean of Surfaces

The first step is to tackle the physical residue. Cigar smoke leaves behind a film on all the hard and soft surfaces inside your vehicle. Begin by thoroughly vacuuming the seats, floor mats, and carpets. Don’t forget the hard surfaces; wipe down the dashboard, console, door panels, and windows with an all-purpose cleaner. For fabric seats, a fabric cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and water can work wonders in breaking down the odor-causing particles.

How to Get Cigar Smell Out of Car Vents

This is often the trickiest part. The ventilation system can recirculate the smell long after you’ve cleaned everything else. Change your cabin air filter first—it’s a primary odor trapper. Then, with the air conditioning on a cool setting and the fan on high, spray an odor-eliminating product specifically designed for cars into the exterior air intake (usually at the base of the windshield). This pulls the freshener through the entire system.

Using Odor Absorbers for Lasting Freshness

After cleaning, you need to absorb any remaining odor. Baking soda is a classic, affordable solution. Sprinkle it liberally over your upholstery and carpets, let it sit for several hours or overnight, and then vacuum it up. For a more powerful approach, an activated charcoal bag or a commercial odor absorber placed in the car for a few days can pull the stubborn smell right out of the air.

With a methodical approach, that persistent cigar aroma doesn’t have to be permanent. By cleaning surfaces, addressing the ventilation system, and using powerful odor absorbers, you can restore a fresh, neutral scent to your car’s interior.