What to Do If There’s Vomit in Your Car – A Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Accidents happen—whether it’s a sick child, a pet, or an unfortunate night out, dealing with vomit in your car is never pleasant. If not cleaned properly, it can leave behind stains, odors, and bacteria that make driving uncomfortable.
3/4/20252 min read
Step 1: Act Fast!
The longer vomit sits, the harder it is to remove. As soon as possible, start cleaning to prevent stains and odors from setting in.
Step 2: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
You'll need:
✔ Disposable gloves
✔ Paper towels or a plastic scraper
✔ Baking soda or cornstarch
✔ Vinegar or an enzyme-based cleaner
✔ Warm water
✔ Microfiber cloths
✔ A vacuum cleaner or wet/dry shop vac
Step 3: Remove the Chunky Bits (Yes, Really 😬)
Use paper towels or a plastic scraper to scoop up solid material. Be careful not to rub it deeper into the fabric or carpet. Dispose of everything in a sealed bag to reduce odor.
Step 4: Absorb the Moisture
Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch over the affected area to absorb excess moisture and neutralize odors. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then vacuum it up.
Step 5: Deep Clean the Area
For Fabric Seats & Carpets:
Mix one part vinegar with two parts warm water and a few drops of dish soap.
Use a microfiber cloth to gently blot (not rub!) the stain.
If the smell persists, use an enzyme-based cleaner designed for pet messes—these break down odor-causing bacteria.
For Leather Seats:
Wipe up the mess with a damp cloth.
Use a mild leather cleaner to remove residue.
Apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture and prevent cracking.
Step 6: Dry and Deodorize
Leave the windows open or use a fan to help dry the area completely. To eliminate lingering odors:
Place a bowl of baking soda or activated charcoal in the car overnight.
Spray an odor neutralizer (not just an air freshener) to break down bad smells.
When to Call a Professional Car Detailer
If the smell won't go away, or if the vomit has seeped deep into the upholstery, it’s time for a professional deep clean. At Auto Shine Solutions Mobile Car Detailing Scarborough, we use:
✅ Steam cleaning to kill bacteria and remove stains
✅ Industrial-strength enzyme cleaners for tough odors
✅ Professional-grade vacuums to extract deep-seated messes
Need Help? Book a Vomit Removal Service Today!
Don’t let a mess ruin your car’s interior! Auto Shine Solutions Mobile Car Detailing Scarborough offers deep cleaning services to remove stains, eliminate odors, and leave your car fresh.
🚗✨ Contact us today and let us handle the dirty work!