Fishing trips can be enjoyable, but the lingering fish smell in car interiors is far from pleasant. Strong odors and stains left by fish fluids can make your car less comfortable and potentially reduce its resale value.
Sometimes, the smell is so bad that you might have to get a professional detailing service to get rid of this smell.
This guide provides an effective and thorough step-by-step guide to get rid of fish smell in car interiors, ensuring a fresh and clean environment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get Rid of Fish Smell in Car
Remove All Fishing Equipment and Trash
The first step in eliminating odors of fish is to identify their source.
- Inspect your car’s interior for any spilled fish fluids, lingering moisture, or forgotten fishing gear.
- Check under the seats, inside storage compartments, and on upholstery for any signs of contamination that could contribute to the dead fish smell in car interiors.
Spot Clean Affected Areas
For areas stained by fish fluids, use a pH-balanced car shampoo for better cleaning results.
- Gently blot the area with a microfiber cloth, working from the edges toward the center to prevent the stain from spreading.
- Avoid scrubbing as it can damage the fabric or push the stain deeper.
Deep Clean Carpets and Upholstery
- Vacuum the carpets, seats, and other fabric surfaces thoroughly to remove any hidden debris.
- For stubborn stains, use a carpet and upholstery cleaner that is safe for your car’s interior materials.
- If you notice discoloration, repeat the cleaning process until the stain fades.
Check out this detailed guide: How to Get Stains Out Of Car Seats: Coffee, Ink, Oil, Blood
Neutralize Odors with Natural Deodorizers
Baking soda is an excellent natural deodorizer.
- Sprinkle a generous amount on the stained areas or where the smell is most prominent.
- Let it sit for several hours or overnight, then vacuum it up. For additional odor neutralization, place a shallow bowl of white vinegar in the car overnight to absorb lingering smells.
Improve Ventilation and Air Circulation
- Open all doors and windows to allow fresh air to flow through your car.
- Turn on the air conditioning and set it to circulate air for a few minutes.
This helps to remove any remaining odor from the interior and ventilation system, ensuring the fish smell in the car is fully addressed.
Why Does My Car Smell Like Fish
The primary cause of the fish smell in car interiors is usually the spills from fish juices or fluids during transport. Improperly sealed coolers or forgotten fishing gear can worsen the issue.
Fish fluids can seep into cloth or leather upholstery, causing persistent stains and odors.
If a recent fishing trip isn’t the issue, the smell might be due to mold, mildew, leaking antifreeze, or decayed rodents in a car.
For example, a clogged ventilation system or moisture trapped in the carpet can also create a dead fish smell in car interiors.
Identifying the root cause is critical to resolving the issue effectively.
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Home Remedies to Eliminate Fish Smell in Car
Baking Soda as a Natural Deodorizer
Sprinkle baking soda generously over carpets and seats, letting it sit for several hours. This method helps neutralize odors and leaves the interior fresher after vacuuming.
White Vinegar for Stubborn Smells
Place a bowl of white vinegar inside the car overnight to absorb odors. Vinegar effectively neutralizes strong smells without leaving a lasting scent.
Essential Oils for a Fresh Smell
Apply a few drops of essential oil to a cotton ball or car vent diffuser. This provides a long-lasting and pleasant scent in your car without overpowering the interior.
When to Contact Professional Detailers
If the fish smell in car interiors persists despite thorough cleaning of the interior or stains being deeply embedded in the upholstery, professional detailing services may be necessary. Professionals use specialized equipment to target hard-to-reach areas and remove stubborn stains.
Auto detailing experts utilize advanced cleaning techniques to remove fishy smells from cars. Professional tools and products ensure that all traces of odor and stains are removed effectively.
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