Mobile Detailing Guide to Removing Cigarette Smoke Smell From Your Car

Mar 15, 2024By Eagle Star Detail

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Eagle Star Detail's Guide to Odor Removal From Your Car


Cigarette isolated on white background

It's Time To Clear the Air In Your Car Interior

Whether you're a smoker or have recently purchased a used car that smells like an ashtray, dealing with smoke odor in your car can be a daunting task. The pungent smell can linger for a long time, making your driving experience less enjoyable and potentially affecting the resale value of your vehicle. However, with the right techniques and products, you can effectively remove smoke odor from your car's interior.

Understanding the Health Impacts of Smoke Odor In Your Car 

Beyond the nuisance of the smell, the presence of smoke odor in your car can have serious health implications. Smoke contains a variety of harmful chemicals and particles that can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate existing health conditions such as asthma and allergies. Prolonged exposure to these pollutants in a confined space like a car can lead to respiratory issues, headaches, and even more severe health problems over time. Removing smoke odor from your car is not just about improving the smell - it's about creating a healthier environment for yourself and your passengers.

The Benefits of Smoke Odor Removal

Eliminating smoke odor from your car offers a multitude of benefits beyond just improving air quality. First and foremost, it enhances your driving experience by creating a more pleasant and enjoyable environment. Instead of being greeted by a stale, unpleasant smell every time you get into your car, you'll be welcomed by a fresh and clean interior that's conducive to relaxation and focus. Additionally, removing smoke odor can help preserve the value of your vehicle. A car that smells like smoke may be less appealing to potential buyers and could fetch a lower price on the resale market. By investing in smoke odor removal, you're not only improving your own driving experience but also protecting your investment in your car. David Faustina, Owner at Eagle Star commented, "A car owner that smokes in the car will destroy any chance at a good resale or trade in value unless they have it professionally cleaned and deordorized. Spend some, to make more. No one wants to sit in someone else's ashtray."

Effective Techniques for Smoke Odor Removal

Start with a Deep Clean
Begin by giving your car's interior a thorough cleaning. Remove all trash and clutter, then vacuum the seats, carpets, and floor mats. Wipe down all hard surfaces, paying close attention to areas where smoke residue tends to accumulate.

Worker man cleaning dust interior vacuum inside car

Use an Odor Eliminator
Invest in a quality odor eliminator specifically designed for cars. Look for products containing enzymes or activated charcoal, which are effective at neutralizing and eliminating smoke odor. Follow the instructions on the label and allow the car to air out with the windows open after application. A good option and one that car companies such as Enterprise Rent A Car uses, is the Maguires Car Refresher which can be purchased at places like Walmart inexpensively. 

product image of maguires car refresher
Maguires car care is a good option for smell removal

Replace Cabin Air Filter
Consider replacing the cabin air filter in your car, as it may have absorbed some of the smoke odor. A fresh filter can help improve the air quality inside your vehicle. To make this step easy, if you purchase your own replacement air filter and book an interior detail with us, we will replace the filter for you. We will need to have the replacement part which you can find at O'Reilly's using the link above. 

Air filter replacement operation.


Steam Clean Fabrics
For stubborn smoke odor, consider steam cleaning the fabrics in your car, including seats and carpets. Steam cleaning can effectively lift and remove residue, leaving your car smelling fresh. You can either rent a steam cleaner or hire a professional detailing service. Be sure to read our Ultimate Guide: Health Car Interior's where we discuss the benefits of using steam to clean. 

Cleaning interior of the car with hot steam . Selective focus.

Deodorize with Baking Soda
Baking soda is known for its odor-absorbing properties. Sprinkle a generous amount on upholstery and carpets, then let it sit for several hours or overnight before vacuuming thoroughly.

Air Purification
Use an air purifier designed for cars to help remove smoke odor and other airborne pollutants. These devices can improve air quality by capturing and neutralizing odors, allergens, and contaminants.

Regular Maintenance
To prevent smoke odor from returning, maintain a smoke-free environment in your car. Avoid smoking inside and regularly clean and air out the interior. Consider using air fresheners or odor-neutralizing products to maintain a pleasant scent. For more on this we invite you to take a look at our blog post on keeping air fresh in your carwhich is chalked full of information to keep your ride safe and clean. 

Car detailing interior textile seats chemical cleaning with professionally extraction method.
Professional Detailing is a great way to rid odors from a car

Professional Detailing
If all else fails, seek help from a professional detailing service specializing in odor removal. These experts have the tools and expertise to effectively eliminate smoke odor and leave your car smelling like new. One very effective way is using natural elements in a creative way. At Eagle Star Detail, one of our treatment offerings is using an OZONE generator. Ozone generators create O3, or ozone, which disburses into the space to be treated. O3 attacks odor causing substances at their source to permanently remove odors in the treatment area.


The use of Ozone is not recommended to be done without the help of a trained professional. Breathing in O3 is toxic and can lead to death. We follow strict guidelines and use it in a way that is safe and effective at removing odors permanently.

Please use caution if using OZONE on your own and be sure all pets and kids are not in the area being treated. Please make sure all pets are out of the car. Again, we do not recommend using OZONE on your own. Give us a call and we can take care of the issue and do it for less than what you will pay for the machine and ensure all steps are taken to eliminate the risk and the smell. 

Eagle Star Detail: Your Partner in Smoke Odor Removal

Inside of a Toyota Tacoma with black interior driver column and dash
Interior Detail- Toyota Tacoma by Eagle Star Detail - Eagle, ID

At Eagle Star Detail, we understand the importance of a clean and healthy car interior. That's why we offer professional smoke odor removal services that come to your home or business. Our experienced technicians use advanced techniques and high-quality products to effectively eliminate smoke odor from your car, leaving it fresh, clean, and ready for the road ahead. Don't let smoke odor diminish your driving experience - contact Eagle Star Detail today and breathe easy in a car that smells like new.
 

FINAL NOTE:  If you or someone you know would like to get help or more information on quitting smoking, we applaud you and encourage you to make a plan to stop smoking. Quitting is a hard thing to do and making a plan will help you to stay on track and ultimately, quit for good. Arm yourself with your own Quit Plan for Smoking and know we are cheering for your success. If you are not ready yet, we understand and will be cheering for you too when the time comes. If you are supporting someone who is trying to quit there are resources available such as the How To Support The Quitter from Smokefree.Gov

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