removing smoke odors

[joyzilli]

We just bought a used car for my son from a friend who is a smoker. We got a great deal, but are hoping we can get the smoke odor out of the car. Any suggestions?? My husband always thinks I'm crazy when I say, "I'll ask my friends on the Tug site." But I know you guys always come through. Thanks in advance...

Joyce

 

[AwayWeGo]

Ammonia.

You could try placing a wide, shallow dish inside the car -- on the floor, most likely -- & pouring into the dish some regular laundry-style household ammonia, taking care not to spill any so that it all goes into the dish.

Then close up the car, leaving the dish of ammonia uncovered inside the car overnight.

Might help. Can't hurt.

-- Alan Cole, McLean (Fairfax County), Virginia, USA.

 

[Gadabout]

Used coffee grounds will work too. Replace as necessary.

Was the car thoroughly detailed before you bought it? If not, the money spent to do so would be worth it, or you can look up online how people do it and do it yourself--it definitely means steam (I use vinegar only, no detergent, so no need to rinse) or chemical cleaning of the carpets/mats in the car, and the seats too, if you have cloth seats.

Also, they sell various air fresheners for cars, but only if you don't get a headache or allergies from them--some of them are quite strong!

 

[luckster]

Sodium bicarbonate is good for getting rid of most smells. You could disolve it with water and wash down the upholstery and vinyl or sprinkle it onto the upholstery and vaccum off.

Tina

 

[shagnut]

Fabreeze works wonders!! shaggy