Drivers who used to smoke or currently do are well aware of the smell cigarettes can leave in a car, which can make passengers feel disgusted and uncomfortable. If you don’t smoke, you probably don’t want a car that smells like you do smoke. When searching for used vehicles, you’ll want to have a car inspection before buying one, as there’s a good chance you might come across a car you want to buy that has the unpleasant smell of cigarettes. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to fix this issue and leave the car smelling brand new.
Gather Your Materials
Here are a few things you might need to remove the scent of cigarettes:
Wireless car vacuum cleaner
Deodorizing agent
Steam cleaner
White distilled vinegar
Towels
Plastic bowls
Baking soda
Brush
Air the Vehicle Out
The first step to getting the smoky smell out of the interior of a car is to roll down all of the windows and allow air to circulate throughout the vehicle. If needed, use a fan to vent the outside air, which will at least get some of the smell out of the car.
Vacuum the Vehicle
A cordless car vacuum cleaner can remove residue left by cigarettes out of the car. Before vacuuming, use a brush to loosen debris wedged in the seats and on the floor. Make sure to vacuum carefully and get in between all the nooks and crannies on the inside of the vehicle. One often-forgotten about area to clean is the floor mats. Removing the floor mats and vacuuming debris, especially cigarette ashes, is a must.
Try Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning the interior of a car can kill germs, which will leave the seats smelling brand new. It’s important to note that steam cleaning the interior of a vehicle is not a practice that should be done frequently, as it may cause damage, especially to leather surfaces. If steam cleaning the interior is a must, it’s better to have it done by a professional.
Use Chemicals or Home Remedies
There are numerous chemical solutions that promise to eliminate cigarette odors. When applying cleaner to the interior of a car, it’s important to read the label to ensure the specific chemicals are safe to use on the surface of the interior. While products such as store-bought deodorizers can eliminate bad smells, there are home remedies that can do an outstanding job as well. Sprinkling baking soda on the interior will absorb the scent of cigarettes and is an inexpensive way of getting rid of bad smells. Additionally, placing a towel into a plastic bowl and filling it with white distilled vinegar will dispel odors if left to sit in the car for an extended time, as the vinegar will absorb the odor.
Before you buy any used vehicle, get in touch with Lemon Squad for an auto inspection. We’ll contact the technician nearest you and send him or her to inspect the vehicle, giving you peace of mind that the car you’re buying is in good shape. Call us today at 1-888-231-7965.