Reader Digest Version Global
Homepage >

Weird Ways to Freshen Your Car

These unconventional tips will help get rid of car smells and keep unwanted odors at bay.

from Reader's Digest Magazine | July/August 2012
Loading
←
© iStockphoto/Thinkstock
  • 1 of 5

Sniff salts

Pour fragrant bath salts into a loose-leaf tea strainer, and place it in the glove compartment for a fast refresher every time you pull out the map.

  • 1 of 5
←
Courtesy Yankee Candle
  • 2 of 5

Get a whiff of wax

Drop a potpourri wax tart— commonly made by candle companies—into a cup holder, and take your favorite scent with you wherever you go.

  • 2 of 5
←
ComstockComplete.com
  • 3 of 5

Dry and drive

Lay fresh herbs, such as basil, on a piece of newspaper in the backseat and leave the windows rolled up to dry the leaves and banish bad odors.

  • 3 of 5
←
© Hemera/Thinkstock
  • 4 of 5

Sprinkle oil

Shake a few drops of lemon or eucalyptus essential oil onto car mats for a naturally sweet scent that will last a few weeks. 


Sources: Real Simple, Apartment Therapy, crunchybetty.com, theresaann.com

  • 4 of 5

Your Comments

  • Mphillips

    I use dryer sheets with good results. Just place one under a seat in your car and it works well. I have also used them in conjunction wth the filter on a vacuum cleaner to distribute a nice fagrance while vacuuming.

  • http://elmercat.org/ Elmer

    I’d be careful about putting scented wax in your cup holders. On a hot, sunny day the wax will melt and create a scented mess.