What to Do If Someone Vomits in Your Car (Before You Call a Professional Detailer)
It happens more often than people think — after a night out, during a road trip, or when someone isn’t feeling well, vomit can end up inside your car, and with the holiday season upon us, one of these instances may apply to you real soon. It’s unpleasant, stressful, and if not handled properly, it can leave behind permanent stains, strong odors, and even bacteria in your vehicle.
At Sweet Lemons Auto Detailing, we specialize in professional biohazard and odor removal. But before we come to you, there are a few important immediate steps you should take to reduce damage and prevent the smell from setting in.
Step 1: Act Quickly
Time is critical. The longer vomit sits in your car, the deeper it penetrates into fabric, padding, and carpet backing. As soon as it's safe to do so:
Park in a well-ventilated area.
Open all doors and windows to allow fresh air to circulate.
Avoid turning on the heat — warmth can lock odors into fabrics.
Step 2: Remove Solid Material Carefully
Wear disposable gloves if available. Use paper towels, disposable rags, or a plastic scraper to gently lift and remove any solid debris.
Do not rub — rubbing pushes the mess deeper into the fibers.
Place everything directly into a sealed trash bag.
Avoid using strong household cleaners at this stage.
Step 3: Blot, Don’t Soak
If there is liquid left behind:
Lightly blot the area with clean towels or paper towels.
Avoid soaking the area with large amounts of water.
Excess moisture can push contaminants into seat foam and carpet padding, where odors are hardest to remove.
Step 4: Apply a Mild Neutralizer (If Available)
If you have access to:
Baking soda
An enzyme-based cleaner (best option)
Mild vinegar solution (only as a short-term neutralizer)
You may lightly apply it to help slow odor development. This does not fully sanitize the area but can help reduce the intensity until professional service is performed.
⚠️ Avoid bleach, ammonia, or strong chemicals. These can permanently discolor upholstery, damage leather, and create dangerous fumes when mixed with vomit acids.
Step 5: Do NOT Try to “Mask” the Smell
Air fresheners, sprays, coffee grounds, or perfumes only temporarily hide the odor. Once the scent wears off, the smell usually returns — often worse than before. Odor-causing bacteria must be removed, not covered.
Why Professional Vomit Cleaning Is Necessary
Vomit contains:
Organic acids
Bacteria
Food particles
Stomach enzymes
When these penetrate into seat foam, carpet padding, or air vents, normal cleaning methods are not enough. Professional detailing uses:
Hot water extraction
Enzyme digestion treatments
Steam sanitation
Ozone or hydroxyl odor removal
Deep padding and foam treatment
This ensures true odor elimination, stain removal, and full sanitation, not just surface-level cleaning.
When to Call a Detailer Immediately
You should contact a professional right away if:
The vomit soaked into fabric or seat foam
The smell remains after basic cleanup
It entered seat cracks, air vents, or carpet backing
The vehicle is used for ride-sharing or transporting customers
A child or pet was involved (sanitation is critical)
