There aren’t many smells out there more defining and desirable than absolute accomplishment. We’re talking about that new-car smell—the aroma of success and new-car ownership as you drive out of the car lot.
But what is it about that new-car smell that’s so alluring? And why does it seem to fade so quickly? In this article, we’ll talk about what makes a car smell so new and how to maintain that fragrance, simply speaking, how to make your car smell just like a new one—without relying on sprays and air fresheners.
What Causes a Car to Smell New?
A few smells come to mind when thinking about the smell of a new car—clean carpet, leather, plastic, and a hint of gunmetal. Ask anyone what a new car smells like, and you’ll probably get a similar answer. Much like the smell of new paint, this manufactured cocktail of chemicals wanes the more you use your car.
So how can you keep your car smelling as fresh as the day you drove it home?
How to Keep Your Car Smelling Fresh
Next to homeownership, your car is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your life. So why not take pride in your investment by keeping it sparkly clean? Let’s explore the best way to make a car smell good and easy ways you can maintain your car’s smell.
Clean Your Upholstery
This might seem like a no-brainer, but cleaning your upholstery, mats, and carpet will keep your car smelling fresh for a long time. Cars accumulate all sorts of dirt and debris from shoes, belongings, and the elements, so regularly cleaning the interior of your car is a surefire way to keep bad odors at bay.
Cover Your Seats
Car seat covers are an easy and inexpensive way to keep your car’s upholstery clean and intact. If you have animals or messy passengers, washable car seat covers can protect your upholstery from scratches, spills, and pesky particles of food.
Clean Dust & Dirt
When was the last time you gave your dashboard a good dusting? Your dashboard is like a dust magnet, so it’s a good idea to make regular dusting a part of your vehicle-cleaning routine. Use a high-quality microfiber towel to wipe away dust, lint, fibers, and anything else lurking in between your dashboard’s vents.
Utilize Baking Soda
It’s widely known that baking soda is a cleaning powerhouse, especially when mixed with vinegar. But did you know that baking soda can absorb the odors in your car? Suck up those nasty smells by sprinkling baking soda around your vehicle’s mats and carpets. Simply let it sit overnight and vacuum it up the following morning.
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