Drivers urged to ‘put baking soda’ in cars this October

Motorists have been told to put baking soda “under their car seat” in a bid to cut back on horrible smells. Katie Newman, a Fragrance Expert at Carfume, stressed the common kitchen staple could help “eliminate persistent car odours”.

She stressed the baking soda would “absorb unwanted smells and moisture in a major boost ahead of the cold winter months. Baking soda can absorb and clean smells by neutralising acidic odor molecules and trapping particles. Absorbing moisture is crucial as temperatures fall, with the tip likely to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

Katie explained: “To eliminate persistent car odours overnight, place an open container of baking soda infused with a few drops of your preferred essential oil, such as lemon or vanilla, under a car seat.

“The baking soda will absorb unwanted smells and moisture, while the essential oils will release a pleasant, lasting fragrance, giving your car the fresh scent of a new vehicle.”

This isn’t the only advice, with the AA also previously suggesting road users use baking soda to clean their vehicles.

The established breakdown group said: “If the seat still smells after it's dried, pour some baking soda onto the stain and let it sit for an hour. Vacuum the baking soda away - it should have absorbed the smell.”

The RAC added that baking soda was a crucial ingredient in making a personalised air fresher in a boost to road users. They said that filling a small mason jar with baking soda and around five drops of essential oils should do the trick.

However, baking soda isn't the only top tip to reduce busty car smells with Katie also encouraging road users to regularly ventilate their car. Leaving all of the windows open for around for 15 minutes could be enough to remove lingering odors.

If motorists continue to be affected by smells, it could signal a bigger problem, with owners likely to need to strip their cars down the air vents.

Katie added: “Cleaning your car's vents is crucial for improving air quality and eliminating odours. Many people overlook this task, but it's simple to do. You don’t need any special tools; simply get an old toothbrush and some diluted dish soap or shampoo and clean the vents out. If there is a musty smell coming from the vents, then it might be better to replace the air filters.”