Even the most meticulously maintained vehicles can fall victim to unexpected messes. If you frequently travel with young children or pets, you’re likely familiar with the occasional travel mishap. Don’t panic if someone vomits in your car! This guide will provide you with the best and most effective methods on how to get rid of the smell of vomit in your car and clean up the mess thoroughly.
It’s certainly an unpleasant situation that requires immediate attention, but rest assured, it’s absolutely fixable. The key is to act as quickly as possible while the vomit is still fresh. While dealing with fresh vomit is ideal, don’t worry if you discover an older stain; it just might require a bit more effort and persistence to eliminate completely.
Immediate First Steps
Begin by physically removing as much of the vomit as possible from the affected surface. A plastic spatula is ideal for this task, but if you don’t have one handy, use whatever you have available – a cloth, paper towels, or even a stiff piece of cardboard. Gently blot the stain with paper towels or a clean cloth, being careful not to press too hard, which could force the vomit deeper into the car’s upholstery or carpet fibers.
Tip: During and after the cleaning process, ensure your car doors are open to provide ample ventilation. Whenever possible, perform the cleaning outdoors, as garages often lack sufficient air circulation. Always work on the stain from the outside edges inwards to prevent spreading it further.
Here are several effective methods to clean up vomit and, most importantly, learn how to get rid of the sick smell out of your car for good!
- White Vinegar
Vinegar stands out as a top-tier natural cleaning product, lauded for its stain-removing, disinfecting, and odor-neutralizing properties. White vinegar or apple cider vinegar are both suitable choices. Create a solution by mixing one part vinegar with two parts warm water. Dip a clean cotton cloth into the mixture, wring it out thoroughly to avoid oversaturation, and gently apply it to the vomit stain, working from the edges towards the center. Avoid excessively wetting the upholstery. Allow the area to air dry completely, and then repeat the procedure if necessary.
- Baking Soda
A timeless remedy for both stains and odors, baking soda is a powerful natural cleaning agent. Its magic lies in its ability to absorb odors, effectively eliminating them rather than just masking them.
For vomit stains, we recommend creating a paste by mixing baking soda and water in a 1:1 ratio. Carefully apply this paste evenly over the vomit stain. Using a soft brush or cloth, gently work the paste into the upholstery or carpet fibers. Let it sit for about an hour to allow the baking soda to absorb the odor. Finally, wipe away the paste with a damp cloth. For optimal results, vacuum the area thoroughly once it’s completely dry to remove any baking soda residue.
- Baking Soda and Soap Solution for Leather or Faux Leather
If your car’s interior features artificial or natural leather upholstery, a slightly modified approach is needed. Use a gentler solution of soap and baking soda. Prepare this by mixing 1 teaspoon of finely grated laundry soap and 1 teaspoon of baking soda into half a liter of warm water. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into this solution, wringing it out well so it’s only slightly damp. Gently wipe the vomit stain. Afterwards, use another cloth dampened with clean water to wipe the treated area and remove any soap residue. Allow the area to air dry, and it should be sparkling clean and odor-free!
- Ammonia (Use with Caution)
Ammonia is a more potent cleaning agent compared to vinegar and baking soda due to its chemical nature. Therefore, caution is advised when using ammonia. Always work with a highly diluted solution and ensure proper ventilation. Mix ½ cup of ammonia with 1 quart of water. Soak a cloth or sponge in this diluted solution, wring it out very thoroughly, and gently apply it to the vomit stain in your car. Allow the treated area to dry completely. If the stain or odor persists, repeat the procedure. As a final step, wipe the area with a cloth moistened with clean water to remove any ammonia residue.
- Commercial Upholstery Cleaners
A wide array of commercial upholstery cleaning products, formulated with active chemical substances, are readily available at supermarkets and auto supply stores. These products come in various forms, including liquids and foams, designed for both wet and dry cleaning methods. For the best results, carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided on the product label. These cleaners are designed to effectively tackle car vomit stains and smells, and should, ideally, leave your car smelling fresh and clean.
- Enzymatic Cleaners
For individuals with respiratory sensitivities or those preferring a gentler approach, enzymatic cleaners are an excellent choice. These cleaners are formulated without harsh chemicals and utilize a bio-enzymatic process to effectively break down a wide range of stains and odors, including vomit from both humans and pets. Enzymatic cleaners are often more effective than traditional chemical-based products and are considered safer for your health and the environment. You can typically find them in pet supply stores or in the cleaning product aisles of large supermarkets and department stores.
- Professional Car Interior Cleaning Services
For guaranteed and hassle-free results, consider using professional steam cleaning services. Professional cleaners possess specialized equipment and expertise to thoroughly clean your car’s interior, eliminating any trace of vomit stains and lingering odors. This can be the most effective solution for ensuring complete removal of vomit and its associated smells from your car. Experienced professionals know precisely how to treat various interior surfaces without causing damage, effectively removing stains and neutralizing odors completely.
Car interior cleaning to remove vomit smell
Pro Tips for Success!
- Always take the time to carefully read the labels of any cleaning products you use. Many products are designed to remove stains but may not effectively neutralize odors. Ensure you choose a product that specifically targets odor removal to truly get rid of the vomit smell in your car.
- Keep in mind that simply using an air freshener will only temporarily mask the unpleasant smell of vomit. To truly eliminate the odor, you need to neutralize it at its source using proper cleaning methods.
- Before applying any cleaning agent, it’s crucial to test it for colorfastness and fabric compatibility. Choose a small, inconspicuous area, such as the bottom of a seat or a side panel, to test the product and ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor your car’s upholstery.
- For deep-seated stains and odors, the most effective solution is often professional cleaning services. Professional upholstery cleaners have access to powerful vacuum extraction equipment that can pull dirt and contaminants from deep within the fabric. This high-tech equipment is typically not available for consumer use and is a significant advantage of professional car interior cleaning.
- And finally, remember to keep your cool and avoid getting upset with the “culprit” of the situation! Whether it’s a child or a pet, accidents happen. Focus on cleaning up the mess and getting back to enjoying your journeys together. Pets and kids bring joy to car trips, so don’t let a little vomit stain spoil the fun.
