How to Clean Vomit from Car Seats & Other Interiors

To clean vomit from a car, first, remove any solid pieces with paper towels or a plastic scraper. Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water, then use a cloth or sponge to gently scrub the affected area. For tougher stains or lingering odors, sprinkle baking soda on the area and let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming. If necessary, use an enzyme cleaner to break down any remaining proteins and eliminate the smell. Finally, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth and let it air dry.

How to Clean Vomit from Car Seats & Other Surfaces

Clean Vomit from Car Seats

Vomit stains and odors can be challenging to deal with, especially in cars where the smell can linger. It’s important to clean vomit as quickly as possible to avoid permanent stains and odors, which can settle into the upholstery and other surfaces. The right approach and cleaning supplies will help restore your car’s interior to its original state.

Why Quick Cleaning is Important

Addressing vomit stains immediately helps prevent lasting damage to your car’s surfaces, including seats, carpets, and leather. Delayed cleaning can lead to stubborn stains, lingering smells, and potential wear on fabric or leather materials.

Tools and Supplies for Cleaning Vomit from Car Surfaces

  • Mild dish soap
  • Warm water
  • Baking soda
  • Enzyme cleaner
  • White vinegar
  • Clean cloths and paper towels
  • Soft brush or sponge
  • Vacuum cleaner

5 Steps to Clean Vomit from Car Door Panel

Clean Vomit from Car Door Panel

  1. Remove excess vomit: Gently scoop up any solid bits using a paper towel or a plastic spatula. Be careful not to make it spread more.
  2. Wipe with a damp cloth: Use a clean cloth dampened with warm water to wipe away the remaining vomit from the door panel.
  3. Make a cleaning mix: Combine a little dish soap with warm water.
  4. Clean the panel: Gently scrub the affected area with the soapy sponge, focusing on any spots where vomit may have dried.
  5. Rinse and dry: Wipe the area again with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then dry with a towel.

Special Considerations for Textured Panels: For textured plastic or vinyl panels, use a soft brush to scrub gently. This helps lift vomit and grime from the grooves without damaging the surface. You can also use a mild all-purpose cleaner or an enzyme cleaner if odors persist.

How to Clean Vomit from Car Floor

Clean Vomit from Car Floor

  • For Carpeted Flooring:
    1. Remove any solid pieces with a spoon or scraper.
    2. Sprinkle baking soda on the stained area, let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb moisture, then vacuum it.
    3. Use a carpet cleaner or a vinegar-water solution (1:1 ratio) to scrub the vomit stain.
    4. Rinse with a clean cloth dampened in water and blot dry with a towel.
  • For Rubber Mats:
    1. Take out the mats and rinse them under water.
    2. Wash with soap and water, then rinse thoroughly.
    3. Let the mats dry completely in the air before putting them back in the car.

Cleaning Vomit from Car Seat Straps and Car Leather

Cleaning Vomit from Car Seat Straps and Car Leather

Cleaning Method Car Seat Straps Car Leather
Initial Step Wipe off excess vomit with a damp cloth. Gently wipe vomit off the leather surface with a soft cloth.
Cleaning Solution Mix mild soap with warm water. Use a leather-safe cleaner or mild soap mixed with water.
Application Dab the soapy water onto the straps using a soft cloth, avoiding soaking them. Apply the cleaner with a soft cloth, avoiding scrubbing to prevent damage.
Rinsing Wipe the straps with a damp cloth to remove soap residue. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off the cleaner from the leather surface.
Drying Air dry completely to avoid mold. Gently pat dry with a towel and let the leather air dry.
Final Touch Consider using a fabric-safe disinfectant spray. Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather soft and stop it from cracking.

How to Clean Vomit from Car Upholstery

Clean Vomit from Car Upholstery

To clean vomit from car upholstery, first blot the area with paper towels to remove any excess. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain to absorb moisture and odors, then vacuum it up after 15-20 minutes. Spray an enzyme cleaner on the spot, gently scrub with a soft brush, and let it air dry completely to finish.

Expert Tip from Cleaning Specialist Mark

To effectively clean vomit stains, act fast by blotting the area with paper towels. For stubborn odors, use a mixture of vinegar and water, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.

Best Cleaners to Use for Removing Vomit Stains

Image Product Name Price Buy Now Button
Nature's Miracle Stain & Odor Remover
Nature’s Miracle Stain & Odor Remover $10.99 Buy Now
OxiClean MaxForce Gel Stick
OxiClean MaxForce Gel Stick $11.97 Buy Now
Resolve Pet Stain Remover
Resolve Pet Stain Remover $8.98 Buy Now

How to Get Rid of Vomit Smell in Car

Vomit Smell in Car

To eliminate lingering vomit smells in your car, start by removing any solid residues and cleaning the affected areas with soap and water. Next, sprinkle baking soda on the affected surfaces and let it sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb odors. Vacuum up the baking soda afterward. You can also place bowls of activated charcoal or coffee grounds in the car for a few days, as they are effective at neutralizing odors.

How to Clean Vomit from Carpet: Quick and Easy Solutions

Clean Vomit from Carpet

  • Wear gloves to protect your hands.
  • Press a clean cloth on the spot to soak up any extra liquid.
  • Mix a cup of warm water with some dish soap.
  • Use a sponge to apply the soapy solution to the stain.
  • Gently blot and scrub until the stain lifts.
  • Rinse the area with clean water.
  • Blot with a dry cloth until the carpet is dry.
  • For tough stains, consider using a carpet cleaner or enzyme cleaner.

FAQs

 How to Clean Dog Vomit from Mattress 

Blot up solids, spray a mix of water and vinegar, and blot until clean. Let it air dry.

 How to Clean Cat Vomit from Couch 

Remove solids, mix dish soap and warm water, blot the stain, and rinse with a damp cloth.

 How to Clean Vomit from Sink 

Remove solids, rinse with hot water, scrub with baking soda, and rinse again.