Vent clip and dashboard air fresheners are meant to be clipped to or positioned over the vents. Tree-style and other air fresheners can be placed hanging from the rear view mirror, or under the dash—where the passenger’s feet go—to get the most circulation. [1] X Research source

Chemical Guys new car smell K1 air freshener for cars Armor All new car smell air freshener

If you have an old tree-style air freshener lying around that doesn’t have any scent left, you can spray perfume directly on this and place it back in the car.

Don’t use candles that are in jars, otherwise you won’t be able to smell them.

To make for a slower release of the scent, keep the box sealed and poke a couple holes in the top and sides.

If you don’t want to drive around with the windows open, leave the car in the driveway with the windows down and the doors open on a windy day, and hopefully some of the smell will blow out. [3] X Research source

Don’t forget the floor mats, under the floor mats, and the space between the back seats and the rear window. Be sure the floors and upholstery are completely dry before you sprinkle on the baking soda. Let the baking soda sit for three to four hours. [5] X Research source

When you’re finished vacuuming, leave the floor mats out of the car.

Tackle mold and mildew with disinfectant sprays. Address bodily fluids (such as vomit) and food stains with bio-enzymatic cleaners. For really powerful smells—think skunk—use an oxidizing cleaner.

It may take a while for the vinegar smell to dissipate, but it will work to help remove most smells, even cigarette smoke. [9] X Research source

Hang the mats to dry over a railing or on a clothesline.

Place some freshly ground coffee beans in a jar with a plastic lid. Poke holes in the lid and place the jar somewhere in your car. [11] X Research source Keep an open box of baking soda in your car to absorb and neutralize smells. [12] X Research source Leave a few orange peels under the front seat to neutralize odors and leave a fresh citrus smell in the car. [13] X Research source Charcoal is another traditional odor neutralizer, so you can even place a couple lumps under the driver or passenger seat to control smells in your car. [14] X Research source

It’s a good idea to keep a few old towels or paper towels in the car to deal with emergencies and spills.