Automotive Odor Eliminators versus Car Air Freshener

Many people love the scent of flowers, fruit, soap or "black ice" in their cars. While they smell great, air fresheners don't really get rid of bad smells, they just cover them up. Odors in your car can come from a variety of sources, food, sweat, pets, cigarette smoke, etc. The only way to truly refresh your car is to use a car odor eliminator.

There are a number of ways to eliminate odors from a car. The most effective method is a one-time use aerosol can like the Meguiar's Whole Car Air Refresher Aerosol or Ozium Smoke Odor Eliminator Air Sanitizers. With the car running and the air conditioner on recirculate, pushing down a button empties the entire can into the vehicle. Let it run for about 15-20 minutes and then let it air out for about the same amount of time. This will allow the refresher to penetrate the cabin filter, ventilation system, headliner and seat belts, leaving behind a pleasing scent that can last up to two months. These types of aerosols also work well one spritz at a time.

Malco Odor Sniper Fragrance Free may be used in a similar way, but is a liquid, not an aerosol. Spray it directly on the source of the odor or a spray a few pumps in the air and let it settle. Close the windows and let the car sit in the sun for about two hours. If the product has worked properly, there will be no scent left behind.

Mostly used by professionals, the Uvonair ozone air purifier machine works wonders on damp, musty, moldy smells in boats and RVs. Ozone safely alters the molecular structure of offensive micro-organisms, to eliminate odors.