Let’s be clear right away: don’t drive stoned, despite what the title might imply. Cannabis use while driving is certainly not recommended, and we do not support doing so in any way. Now that we’ve cleared up the (hopefully obvious) disclaimer, let’s face it: there will inevitably be situations when you might store or use marijuana in your automobile. Although it’s not a good idea to smoke marijuana while operating a motor vehicle, that doesn’t imply you won’t ever do so when the vehicle is parked. It’s possible that you don’t smoke indoors or that it’s too cold to smoke outside. Be aware that it has a strong odor that could cause major trouble! The seats, flooring, dashboards, fabric ceilings, and air conditioning units in cars can all absorb weed smoke. So, driving while high may be fun and problematic all at once! So, have you kept some marijuana in your car or used it to smoke it?

If you’re a frequent smoker, you may have experienced the lingering smell of weed in your car. The smell can be quite strong and persistent, making it difficult to get rid of. Whether you’re trying to cover up the smell before a car ride with friends or family, or you’re trying to sell your car, getting the weed smell out of your car is essential. Fortunately, there are a few simple and effective methods for eliminating the odor. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most effective ways to get the weed smell out of your car, so you can enjoy a fresh smelling ride.

Why does weed smell so strongly?

Because of the aromatic substances known as terpenes that are present in marijuana flowers, the part of the plant you smoke, each strain of cannabis has a distinctive aroma. Although we use them for a number of health benefits, their main function is to protect the plants from predators. Limonene, caryophyllene, myrcene, and other terpenes are examples.

Depending on the main terpenes present, cannabis can smell fruity, heavy, relaxing, earthy, overpowering, powerful, or unpleasant. Additionally, your automobile fills with that stench when you smoke inside.

How long does weed smell linger in a car?

It should last for at least 30 minutes after you smoke. The stink will go in about 40 minutes with enough air and windows open. However, if you smoke marijuana frequently, be aware that the fragrance will linger on the vents, seats, and cushions in your automobile. To get rid of the strong smell it produces, you will need to clean thoroughly.

How to Get the Weed Smell Out of Your Car (From Least to Most Effective)

By using essential oils

Essential oils can be used to eliminate the smell of weed from a car by diffusing them in the vehicle. Some essential oils that are known for their odor-eliminating properties include peppermint, lemon, and eucalyptus. To use essential oils in your car, you can either:

Use a diffuser: Purchase a car diffuser specifically designed for essential oils, fill it with water and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil.
DIY: You can make your own car diffuser by using a small bowl or container, add some water and a few drops of essential oil, place it on the dashboard or somewhere else in the car.
Dabbing: Dab a small amount of the essential oil on a cotton ball or tissue and place it in the car, or put a few drops on a clothes hanger, and put it inside the car and hang it on the rear-view mirror.

Please keep in mind that some essential oils can cause allergic reactions, so you should be careful when using them. And also, if you have pets or children, it’s best to avoid or use with caution as some essential oils are toxic to them.

By using air fresheners

There are several types of air fresheners that can be used to eliminate the smell of weed from a car, including:

Spray air fresheners: These come in various scents and can be sprayed directly into the car’s interior. Some popular scents that can help mask the smell of weed include lemon, pine, and vanilla.
Gel air fresheners: These are similar to spray fresheners but come in a gel form. They can be placed in various parts of the car, such as the cup holder or dashboard.
Charcoal air fresheners: These are made with activated charcoal which is known for its odor-absorbing properties. They can be placed in the car and will absorb any unwanted smells over time.
Hanging air fresheners: These can be hung from the rearview mirror or placed on the dashboard. They come in a variety of scents and can be replaced as needed.

By using baking soda

Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and can be used to eliminate the smell of weed from a car. Here’s how you can use baking soda to get rid of the weed smell:

Sprinkle baking soda on the car’s floor mats, seats, and other fabric surfaces. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if possible.
Vacuum up the baking soda thoroughly, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies in the car.
Repeat the process if necessary.

You can also make a DIY odor-eliminating solution by mixing baking soda with a few drops of essential oils. Mix it in a bowl and then sprinkle the mixture on the car’s interior. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, then vacuum it up.

Alternatively, you can put some baking soda in a bowl, or a small open container and place it in the car for a few days. Baking soda will absorb the odor and you can vacuum it up or dispose of it.

It’s important to note that while baking soda can help to absorb and eliminate the smell of weed, it may not completely remove all the odor. You may need to use a combination of methods to fully eliminate the smell, such as using an odor eliminating spray or charcoal air freshener in addition to baking soda.

By using ozone generators

Ozone generators have been suggested by some as odor removers. Currently, there is limited scientific agreement on its actual efficacy. Researchers have hypothesized that it may be able to get rid of some scents, particularly those brought on by second-hand smoke.

Keep the following in mind if you’re considering employing an ozone generator to eliminate the cannabis smell: The EPA classifies ground-level ozone as an air pollutant because it poses a risk to human health. Be sure to leave the car while it is running if you opt to use one to eliminate odors from your automobile. Additionally, make sure to let your car vent completely before you start driving.

By deep cleaning your car

The easiest technique to get rid of any cannabis odor in your automobile may be to give it a thorough cleaning. This can entail using a wet vacuum throughout the interior and utilizing the proper cleansers on all interior surfaces, such as Armorall for the dashboard and consoles and Windex for the inside of windows and windscreens. Since all smells are actually gasses, there are a lot of areas in your car where the weed scent might hang out. A thorough cleaning may be required to actually get rid of the stink if it is strong. This will not only make your car smell fresh and clean, but it will also help get rid of the weed odor.

By avoiding the smell in the first place

The best solution at the moment is to fully avoid any odor in the first place. Since you don’t consume or transport marijuana in your automobile, it won’t ever smell like marijuana. If you need to pick up your medication from the dispensary by car, this is challenging. If you only purchase vapes, concentrates, or edibles that are tightly wrapped, you can lessen the chance of residual scents from your purchases. However, a lot of customers favor flowers, which even when not smoked, creates a distinct smell in your automobile. By packing your item for the ride home in an airtight canister, bag, or jar, you can eliminate this odor. As an alternative, you can have a designated carer shop for you or employ a weed delivery service.

Conclusion

That concludes our list of the numerous techniques you can use to eliminate the weed odor from your car. Just another reminder that it is prohibited to smoke or consume cannabis inside of a moving vehicle, regardless of who is driving. Additionally, if you are high on marijuana, please never drive. There is seldom a good reason to operate heavy machinery when you are high.