Are you looking for ways to clean a gas spill in a car trunk? A gasoline spill is something that needs to be cleared quickly. Use our detailed guide on how to clean the gas spill and get rid of the gasoline smell from your car.
There could be multiple reasons for a gas spill in your trunk. It could happen when you try to transport fuel for your lawnmower or when you have a gas can in your trunk for a long road trip, and it starts leaking. Whatever the reason be, you should never take the spill lightly! The obvious reason is that it can make your car’s trunk messy. Also, inhaling gasoline fumes over time can cause dizziness, headaches, or worse, it can even damage your lungs! Don’t worry. Cleaning the spill as soon as you spot/smell can help you clean the mess effectively.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Gas Spill in a Car Trunk
Things you’ll need
- Face mask
- Old clothes, rags, and towels
- Spray bottle
- Carpet cleaner
- Vinegar
- Coffee ground
- Baking soda
- Kitty litter
- Brush
- Vinegar
- Fan
- Vacuum cleaner
Before you start the cleaning process, make sure you’ve all the equipment near you. You should wear a face mask to protect both your mouth and nose from the gas fumes. Park your car in an open and well-ventilated area, like a driveway or on your street, and then start cleaning the spill.
Step 1
After locating the gasoline spill, use old rags and press them against the spot to soak up the gasoline. If you don’t have rags, use paper towels or even newspapers for this process. If it’s an old spill, you can locate the source by smelling it, or you can use your hands to feel for the wet spot – make sure you wash your hands after it.
Step 2
Spray some water on the area to dampen it. Water and gasoline don’t mix well. Therefore, the water will help loosen the gasoline molecules. Next, apply a thin layer of salt, cornmeal, or kitty litter over the stain. Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, and then wipe it off thoroughly.
Step 3
Now clean the gas stain using a cleaning solution. Use a carpet shampoo, mix it with adequate water, and apply it to the stain. You can even use your household items to clean the stain. Mix equal amounts of baking soda, vinegar, and dishwashing solution to make a household cleaning product. Next, pour the cleaning solution onto the spill and then scrub it thoroughly using a nylon brush.
Step 4
After scrubbing out the stains, dab it with clean and unused rags. Open the door and allow the trunk to air dry. If you want to speed up the drying process, use a fan or park the car accordingly to let sunlight enter the trunk. Check if the stain is removed. If not, continue the cleaning and drying process.
Step 5
Now, it’s time to get rid of the gas smell. You can use a commercial car air freshener or use household remedies to eliminate the odor. For example, baking soda is an excellent odor remover; it can effectively remove the gasoline smell in your car. Sprinkle some baking soda in your trunk, allow it to sit for a few hours, and finally vacuum it.
Some car owners use coffee grounds. However, instead of a few hours, allow it to stay for a week before you vacuum it. You can find other DIY methods by searching ‘how to get rid of gas smell in a car’ on the internet and pick a technique that suits you. After trying all the methods, we recommend replacing your trunk’s carpeting if your car still smells like gasoline.
Renée Martin is a travel and car expert who focuses on road and air travel in the U.S. For the past 6 years, she’s been helping make driving and trip planning easier and budget-friendly for everyday travelers.
