Keep your vehicle smelling springtime fresh

You’ve returned home from the first camping trip of the season with a wet dog, leftovers and the faint smell of skunk. Opening the windows didn’t help. And the pine tree freshener hanging from your rear view mirror only masks some of the odors.

What to do?

“There’s a product designed to eliminate just about any smell that can take the pleasure out of driving,” said John Farmer of Dakota Products, a leader in auto air freshening products.

“Air fresheners are just covers, a temporary fix. Enzyme-based aerosols contain chemicals that actually remove the odor-causing molecules from the air.”

According to Michael Dickson, president of Ohio Auto Supply, the key to eliminating odors involves removing the cause itself.

“The enzyme actually attacks and breaks down the bacteria causing the odor,” Dickson said. “In most cases, [the odor] is also a stain.”

Ohio Auto Supply was founded in 1933 by Dickson’s grandfather, and has been manufacturing detailing products since the 1980s.

Dickson said the goal is to break down the amino acids of protein-based stains like coffee or food that are causing the odors.

“Protein bonds odor to carpets,” Dickson said.

Dry aerosols may be applied directly to carpet and fabric where odors become trapped. Farmer cautioned against using liquid and oil-based spray products. Overspray can interfere with electronics under the driver seat or underneath the dashboard.

Both Farmer and Dickson recommend odor bombs for difficult odors—especially when you don’t know the source.

“Use a few sprays, then let the car sit for several hours,” Dickson said. “Don’t spray directly at vents. Leave the car on with the recirculation running while spraying.

“The vents will pull the chemical inside. Then turn off the car.”

Avoid breathing the vapors and use of goggles as well as gloves when handling odor removing products, Dickson said.

“Shut up the vehicle where you’re trying to neutralize the odor,” Dickson said, and then let it sit unopened for several hours.

Air out the vehicle thoroughly before driving.

Farmer and Dickson offered the following suggestions to reduce car odors:

• Consider enzyme-based aerosols that are designed to remove protein-based odors. Air fresheners simply mask odors.
• Determine the odor and location, then choose the odor remover recommended for your situation. Some products remove smoke or animal smells and may not work as well with other odors. Most vehicle odors can be eliminated.
• Avoid liquid air fresheners and oil-based sprays that can damage the sensitive electronics found in modern vehicles.
• Use caution when handling odor-removal products. Goggles and gloves are recommended.
• Air out your vehicle thoroughly after using odor eliminating products to avoid breathing vapors.

“If you have a specific type of odor in your vehicle, chances are there is a product that can get rid of it,” Farmer said.