How to Get Pee Smell Out of Car: Effective Methods

Are you dealing with a pee smell in your car and don’t know how to get rid of it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. This can happen, especially if you have pets or kids. The good news is, there are simple ways to fix it.

In this article, you’ll learn easy steps to remove that stubborn pee smell and make your car fresh again. Whether it’s on the seats, carpet, or anywhere else, we’ll help you get your car smelling clean and pleasant in no time.

How to Get Pee Smell Out of Car

Getting pee smell out of a car can be a bit challenging, but with the right approach, you can get your car smelling fresh again. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you tackle the odor:

Act Quickly

The sooner you address the pee smell, the easier it will be to remove. Pee can soak into the upholstery and carpet, making the odor harder to eliminate if left untreated.

Blot the Area

If the pee is fresh, start by blotting the area with paper towels or a clean cloth. Press down firmly to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the pee deeper into the fabric.

Clean the Area

For cleaning, you can use a mixture of water and mild soap or an enzyme cleaner specifically designed for pet stains. Enzyme cleaners are great for breaking down the proteins in urine, which helps to eliminate the odor.

• Mix the Cleaner: If you’re using a commercial enzyme cleaner, follow the instructions on the bottle. For a homemade solution, mix equal parts water and white vinegar.
• Apply the Cleaner: Spray the cleaner onto the affected area. Make sure to cover the entire spot.
• Scrub Gently: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the area. Be careful not to damage the upholstery or carpet.
• Rinse: Dampen a clean cloth with water and blot the area to remove any cleaner residue.
• Dry Thoroughly: Use a dry cloth or paper towels to blot up excess moisture. Leave the area to air dry completely. You can also use a fan or open the car windows to speed up drying.

Deodorize the Car

Once the area is clean and dry, you’ll need to deodorize the car to remove any lingering smell.

• Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Baking soda absorbs odors effectively. Afterward, vacuum up the baking soda.
• Activated Charcoal: Place activated charcoal in a container and leave it in the car overnight. Charcoal is a natural odor absorber.
• Air Fresheners: Use an air freshener or odor neutralizer to give your car a fresh scent. Be cautious with strong fragrances, as they can sometimes mix with the pee smell rather than cover it.

Check for Residue

After cleaning, inspect the area for any remaining stains or odors. If you notice any lingering smell or discoloration, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or try a stronger enzyme cleaner.

Prevent Future Incidents

To avoid future problems, consider using seat covers or mats that are easy to clean. If the smell was due to a pet or child, try to prevent accidents by keeping them in a designated area or using protective barriers.

I hope these simple steps help you get rid of the pee smell in your car. It’s never fun dealing with that, but with a little effort, your car can smell fresh again. Remember to act quickly and clean the area well to keep the smell from coming back.

Alternative Methods

Method 1: Using Enzyme Cleaners

Enzyme cleaners are special cleaners that break down the bad stuff in pee. This helps to get rid of the smell completely. Start by spraying the enzyme cleaner on the area that smells. Make sure you cover the whole spot. Let the cleaner sit for a few minutes, so it can work on breaking down the pee.

After that, use a clean cloth to blot up the cleaner and any leftover liquid. Finally, let the area dry completely. This method works well because the enzymes attack the source of the smell, not just cover it up.

Method 2: Using Vinegar and Baking Soda

Vinegar and baking soda are great for neutralizing odors. Together, they can help remove the pee smell from your car. First, mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray this mix on the smelly area, making sure to soak the spot.

Then, sprinkle baking soda over the wet area. The baking soda will start to fizz as it reacts with the vinegar, helping to lift the smell out of the fabric. Let the baking soda sit on the spot for a few hours, or even overnight if you can.

After it’s dry, vacuum up the baking soda. This method is simple but very effective because the vinegar neutralizes the smell, and the baking soda absorbs any lingering odor.

Method 3: Using Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a natural odor absorber. It doesn’t just mask the smell; it pulls it out of the air. You can buy activated charcoal from stores. Place it in a container or bag, and leave it in your car for a few days.

The charcoal will slowly absorb the bad smells, including the pee smell. You don’t have to do much—just put the charcoal in the car and let it work. This method is easy and doesn’t require much effort, but it might take a bit longer to fully get rid of the smell.

These three methods using enzyme cleaners, vinegar and baking soda, or activated charcoal are all effective ways to get rid of pee smell in your car. They’re easy to do and can help make your car smell fresh and clean again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of the Pee Smell in a Car?

It depends on the method you use and how strong the smell is. Some methods, like using an enzyme cleaner, can work within a few hours, while others, like activated charcoal, may take a few days.

Can I Use Regular Household Cleaners to Remove the Pee Smell?

Regular household cleaners might mask the smell, but they may not remove it completely. Enzyme cleaners are more effective because they break down the source of the odor.

Is It Necessary to Use a Vacuum after Cleaning with Baking Soda?

Yes, it’s important to vacuum after using baking soda. This removes the baking soda, which has absorbed the odor, and any remaining dirt from the car.

Can I Prevent the Pee Smell from Returning?

Yes, by cleaning the area thoroughly and using an enzyme cleaner, you can remove the source of the smell and prevent it from returning.

Is Vinegar Safe to Use on Car Upholstery?

Yes, vinegar is generally safe for most car upholstery. However, it’s a good idea to test a small, hidden area first to make sure it doesn’t cause any discoloration.

What Should I Do If the Smell Doesn’t Go Away?

If the smell persists, you might need to repeat the cleaning process or try a different method, like using an enzyme cleaner. In some cases, professional cleaning might be necessary.

Can I Use Air Fresheners to Mask the Pee Smell?

Air fresheners can help mask the smell temporarily, but they won’t remove the source of the odor. It’s better to clean the area properly to get rid of the smell.

Is Activated Charcoal Safe to Leave in the Car?

Yes, activated charcoal is safe to leave in the car. It’s a natural odor absorber and doesn’t release any harmful chemicals.

Can Pet Urine Be Harder to Remove Than Human Urine?

Yes, pet urine can sometimes be harder to remove because it may have a stronger odor and can soak deeper into the fabric. Enzyme cleaners are particularly effective for pet urine.

Should I Seek Professional Help If I Can’t Remove the Smell?

If you’ve tried multiple methods and the smell still lingers, it might be a good idea to seek professional help. A professional cleaning service can use specialized tools and products to remove tough odors.