Hygiene experts agree even the cleanest cars may smell stuffy. Studies have shown that one of the main reasons why car owners stop using air fresheners is because they cannot find a scent that lasts.
The average consumer spends over $400 to mask odors for 12 weeks every year, and what do you have to show for it? Nothing but memories of a sweet smell for a few minutes before it fades away.
This Ultimate Guide will solve the problem of eliminating bad smells while enjoying good music, a good road trip… and all that goes with it. So read on to discover the most popular ways to freshen your car!
Understanding Car Freshies and Their Benefits
Hanging air fresheners, known as "car freshies", are commonly found in cars, closets, shelves, and bathrooms. These typically absorb fragrance or essential oil scents. The abbreviation "freshie" refers to automotive air fresheners.
The pleasant scent car fresheners impart to the car is their main advantage. This benefit is advantageous when there is heavy traffic and extended travel.
In addition, employing vehicle freshies has several advantages, such as 100% odor eradication and availability in various sizes and forms. With a wide range of aroma selections, it also gives off a feeling of freshness. Finally, it has a disinfecting effect.
Types of Car Fresheners and How They Work
There are many types of car fresheners and their scents. The most common types are air fresheners, car freshies, plug-ins, and aroma diffusers.
Air fresheners
Air fresheners are small devices that release a scent into the air for about an hour. This type of product is usually placed near the dashboard of your vehicle, so it will blow through the vents when you turn on your air conditioner.
Car freshies
Air fresheners are designed to fit into a car's vent system to release a pleasant scent into the vehicle as it runs. They usually come in different fragrances and sizes so you can use them everywhere.
Plug-ins
Plug-ins are similar to air fresheners in that they release a pleasant scent into the air inside your vehicle. However, they work by plugging into an outlet rather than using batteries, as some other models do.
Aroma diffuser
The other car freshener type is an aroma diffuser--these can be used in any vehicle. They contain no chemicals and release their scents into the air around you; this makes them great for those who don't want any chemical residue left after driving home from work or school!
How to Choose the Right Car Freshener for You
It makes complete sense not to let other car owners' selections affect your decision regarding automobile smells. Instead, consider the scents that make you happy, bring back memories of a vacation, or make you feel upbeat and cheerful when picking a fragrance. Here are some pointers on how to proceed:
Who has the say
A car is like a member of the family. Decide not to spend money on a fragrance that your family may find grating or overwhelming.
Discuss fragrance choices with other members who will frequently be riding. Generally speaking, picking natural car freshies like mint, grass, lavender, and fruits always does the job.
Long-lastingness
Long-lasting car freshies are a decision aspect when choosing air fresheners. Therefore, before selecting any scent, inquire about its type, longevity, and other pertinent details.
Explore seasonally
Every season has its unique characteristics and provides us with various moods. So why not also use seasonal car smells? Choose a minty or calming scent in the summer, fruity or floral in the spring, and sparkly with woodsy oaks in the winter.
Look up ratings
It is always advisable to read product reviews before purchasing anything. Search for what people say about the items you've pinned, their alleged longevity, and their fragrances.
Placement and Maintenance of Car Fresheners
Car fresheners' placement and maintenance are essential to your vehicle's overall performance. You can place car freshies in areas that are easily accessible but out of sight.
An area, in particular, could be your car's dashboard, where drivers will see them as they pass. These areas are also accessible for drivers to reach without having to get out of their seats or open doors. Once you're not smelling the scent you're used to, replace your car freshie with a new one.
The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Car Fresheners
You want your car to smell good when you're out and about. Whether driving through a city or on the open road, many different car fresheners are available to help make your ride more pleasant. There are three main car fresheners: air fresheners, plug-ins, and car air purifiers.
Air fresheners
Air fresheners are generally small and can be attached to your air vents. They release a pleasant fragrance when the air blows through them, which can help mask unpleasant odors in your car. The downside is that they only work when your vehicle's air conditioning or heater is running.
Plug-ins
Plug-ins are similar to air fresheners, except that they don't need to be attached to your vehicle's vents. Instead, they're usually small and can be placed on a table or shelf in your car.
As the car's battery is charged, it powers the plug-in and releases its fragrance into the air. This car freshener works whenever your vehicle is running and will last several weeks before needing replacement. The downside is that it requires batteries, which may last less than other freshening devices.
Car air purifiers
There are also car air purifiers, similar to plug-ins but have additional features. These products usually come with a fan that helps circulate the air around your vehicle and filters that help remove odors.
They're great for those who want to keep their cars smelling fresh and clean all year. The downside is that they must be plugged in and turned on to work. If you forget to turn them off when you leave your vehicle, they may drain the battery over time.
Natural Alternatives to Chemical Car Fresheners
Depending on the brand, car air fresheners can range in price from cheap to costly, but they all share the same chemical basis for aroma. To help you make your car smell incredible, we have crafted a quick list of car air freshener substitutes.
Essential oils
The best way to discover smells is with essential oils. While the type of oil you use is entirely up to you, select scents that won't make you drowsy while driving. Consider your options and choose something relaxing with an earthy, woodsy, and pleasant perfume, such as Egyptian Musk Fragrance Oil.
Using essential oils has the advantage that you won't need to use many products; even a little will do the trick. To distribute the smell as far as possible, place 1-2 drops of the oil on a piece of fabric or tissue, then put it close to your air vents.
Make-your-own air fresheners
If you're looking for a natural or chemical-free car freshie, doing it yourself can be a terrific alternative. This is especially true for people who want their vehicle to have a unique aroma.
You only need a container and the scents you wish to use in your car. You can use essential oils or a mix of your preferred citrus peels. The decision is entirely up to you.
Coffee beans
Coffee beans can be used as a quick approach to filling your car with a pleasant aroma. Coffee's aroma will not only help you wake up, but it will also help cover up unpleasant smells. Additionally, coffee beans aid in eliminating any unpleasant scents or aftertastes you may have previously encountered.
You may place these beans inside your car in a mason jar or a thin sock if you want to use them as an air freshener. Place a few pots or socks strategically within your vehicle to accentuate the coffee fragrance.
Incorporating Car Fresheners Into Your Car Care Routine
You can use car fresheners to enhance your car care routine. These products are designed to freshen the air in your car and are safe for you and your vehicle.
Here are some tips for incorporating car fresheners into your routine:
- Ensure you have a good-ventilated area for your car to avoid any smoke or fumes. It will help keep the smell from being too strong and ensure that it doesn't get into anything else in the vehicle.
- Ensure that the air vents are clear so that there isn't any debris blocking them up or causing blockage inside your vehicle's system.
- Try using different types of scents so that each time someone comes over, they can experience something new!
Conclusion
Your car is your buddy because you need each other's back wherever you go. So many things might happen while driving, but having a good scent in your vehicle can make you feel calm and easy.
Many car freshies are available in the market so choose what you think is best. We've also provided some alternatives if you need help finding what suits you. So get the best car freshie for you and your buddy!
