how to get smell of puke out of car

That dreaded moment when someone gets sick in your car is one every driver hopes to avoid. The initial cleanup is one thing, but that lingering, sour odor can feel impossible to defeat. It seeps into the upholstery and seems to hang around for weeks, making every drive a unpleasant reminder. If you’re facing this stinky situation, take a deep breath (of fresh air, first) and know that it is possible to restore your car’s interior.

Knowing how to get smell of puke out of car is all about acting quickly and tackling both the visible mess and the invisible odor particles. The key is to address the source thoroughly, because simply masking the smell with an air freshener will only provide a temporary, and often worse, solution.

The First Step: Immediate Cleanup

Speed is your best friend here. Start by removing any solid debris with gloves and a plastic bag. For the main affected area, blot—don’t rub—with paper towels or clean rags. Once you’ve blotted up as much as possible, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the spot. Baking soda is excellent at absorbing both moisture and initial odors, giving you a solid foundation for the deeper clean.

How to Get Smell of Puke Out of Car for Good

After the initial containment, it’s time for a deep clean. Create a simple cleaning solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes acidic smells. Lightly spray the solution onto the soiled area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, using a clean cloth, blot the area until it’s mostly dry. For fabrics, a follow-up spray with an enzymatic cleaner, designed for pet stains, can be incredibly effective at breaking down the organic matter causing the stench.

Don’t Forget the Air Itself

Even after the seats and carpets are clean, odor molecules can linger in the air vents. Run your car’s air conditioning on a cool setting for a few minutes, then switch to heat for a few minutes to help cycle air through the system. Placing an open box of baking soda or an activated charcoal bag under a seat will work continuously to absorb any remaining smells from the air, acting as a long-term odor neutralizer.

With a prompt and thorough approach, that awful smell doesn’t have to be a permanent passenger. By tackling the source directly and using simple household products, you can successfully freshen up your car and enjoy your drives once again.