Pet odors in your car can be stubborn: but with the right approach, they don't have to be. Eliminating pet smells in your car is completely doable. But you need to understand wy they linger, how they sink into seats and fabrics, and what it takes to actually kick them out (for good).
To help you get started, we're breaking down how to clean your car and keep it that way—no matter who's sitting shotgun.
Why Do Pet Odors Linger In Your Car?
Pet odors don't just sit on surfaces. Traces of animal fur, saliva, dander, and more can penetrate upholstery, carpets, and fabrics.
Because these materials are organic, they contain proteins and oils that cling to other fibers. When mixed with moisture, they're incredibly likely to lead to bacterial and mold growth.
Your car's heating and cooling system also keeps these smells in near-constant circulation. That reinforces the smell each time you turn on your heat or A/C, essentially perpetuating the cycle.
How To Remove Pet Odors From Your Vehicle
1. Ventilate And Vacuum
Airflow is your first line of defense. Roll down the windows and let fresh air circulate through your car, especially after transporting your pet. Even just a short drive with open windows can help reduce trapped smells. On a nice day, leaving your car parked with the doors open in a shaded area can also work wonders.
Then, you'll want to vacuum. Focus on every surface: seats, floor mats, carpets, under the seats, and between crevices. Use a handheld attachment to reach tight spots.
Pet hair, dander, and even tiny food crumbs can all cause unpleasant smells. Even freshly-washed interiors can retain smells if the hair isn’t removed. Vacuuming lays the groundwork for everything else.
2. Deep Clean Fabrics And Carpets
Use a natural enzymatic cleaner or foam upholstery cleaner that’s made to break down organic matter. Apply generously to seats, carpets, and any upholstered surfaces.
Use a soft-bristled brush to gently work the cleaner in, then let it sit for a few minutes. Blot up the excess with a clean microfiber towel and allow it to air dry.
If odors persist, repeat the process.
3. Clean Out Air Vents And Duct
Don’t forget the circulatory system, which can trap pet smells and spit them back out into your car's cabin. To help stop that cycle, we recommend deodorizing your entire cab.
To do so, turn your car on, set the A/C to max with the recirculate setting activated, and place a deodorizer in the cabin (we opt for our naturally fresh Auto Odor Eliminator, which uses pure tea tree oil to eliminate airborne smells from bacteria and mildew).
Let your A/C run for about 15 minutes with the doors closed. This allows the product to reach deep into the ducts and eliminate smells you can’t even see.
When it's done, open the doors to ventilate fully. It’s a small step with a big impact on air quality.
4. Tackle Hard Surfaces
Hard surfaces like dashboards, cupholders, door panels, and center consoles may not absorb odors like fabrics do, but they can still harbor grime that contributes to the smell. Use a multi-surface cleaner, like our odor-eliminating and cleaning wipes, on every surface.
Then, run over each surface with a microfiber cloth to dry. Pay extra attention to textured areas where dirt and dander can collect.
5. Use A Naturally Fresh Odor Neutralizer
Once your car is clean, it’s time to maintain that freshness with a natural pet odor neutralizer or car odor eliminator. Unlike heavy sprays that mask odors with cloying fragrance, plant-powered neutralizers are better for your lungs (and your pet's). We use our tea tree oil-based cleaning and freshening sprays to eliminate any lingering airborne odors without residues.
6. Keep Removable Covers Clean
If you use pet seat covers, mats, or blankets, make a habit of washing them regularly. These accessories catch a lot of fur, dirt, and oils that would otherwise settle into your car.
Wash according to the label, and always air-dry if possible to preserve their materials. We’ve found that consistent care here not only minimizes odor buildup but also extends the life of your car’s interior. It’s a simple habit that makes a big difference.
7. Shampoo Or Steam-Clean Floor Mats
Floor mats collect everything, from mud and slobber to fur and whatever your pet tracks in on their paws.
If your mats are rubber, pull them out and hose them down with warm, soapy water. Let them dry completely before placing them back in the car.
For carpeted mats, we recommend shampooing or steam-cleaning them. Use a pet-safe carpet cleaner and scrub thoroughly. A steam cleaner works well if you have access to one, as the heat helps lift deep-set grime and odor.
8. Brush And Wipe Down Your Pet Before Rides
A little prep before your pet hops in can go a long way. Give your dog or cat a quick brush to reduce shedding, and use pet wipes to remove dirt and dander from their coat and paws.
Even just a few seconds spent on this can keep your car cleaner over time.
9. Keep A Small Trash Bin In The Car
It sounds simple, but keeping a small trash bin or bag in your car helps manage odor-causing clutter. Leftover treats, chew toy bits, or used wipes can contribute to lingering smells if left behind.
Make it a habit to empty the bin regularly. This small step keeps your car neater and cuts down on the sources of hidden stink.
By ventilating, vacuuming, deep cleaning fabrics, treating vents, wiping surfaces, and keeping pet gear clean, you’re tackling the issue from every angle.
How To Remove Pet Odor From Your Car (FAQs)
How often should I clean my car to keep pet odors away?
We recommend a light clean (vacuuming and wiping down surfaces) every week and a deeper clean once a month if you regularly travel with your pet.
Are pet odors harmful to human health?
In most cases, they're not dangerous, but strong or lingering odors can indicate bacteria or mold growth, which could affect indoor air quality and cause irritation over time.
Do leather interiors hold pet odors less than fabric?
Yes, leather is less absorbent than fabric, so it typically holds fewer odors. However, it still requires regular cleaning to stay fresh, especially if it collects pet oils or fur.
