Someone Threw Up in My Car! Here's Exactly What You Should Do Next

We get it—few things are as frustrating or stomach-churning as discovering someone threw up in your car. Whether it was your kid getting car sick on the winding streets of Boston, a friend who partied a little too hard after the Celtics game, or maybe even an Uber or Lyft passenger after a late-night ride, the aftermath is not pretty.

But don’t panic! At Viper Car Detailing, we've tackled our fair share of unpleasant car interior incidents (yes, even those involving vomit), and we're here to help you quickly clean up the mess and get your car smelling fresh again.

Here’s exactly what you should do when faced with this challenging situation:

Step 1: (Someone Threw Up in My Car) Act Fast & Ventilate

Time is crucial when it comes to car vomit cleanup. The longer it sits, the more it soaks in, causing deep stains and odors.

• Immediately open all windows and doors to air out the vehicle.

• If you're driving, safely pull over in a secure area like a parking lot or driveway.

• Fresh air reduces the odor and makes the cleanup process more bearable.

Step 2: Protect Yourself

Don’t rush into cleaning unprepared—use disposable gloves and even a mask if the smell is strong. You’ll want to avoid direct contact with the mess for obvious health and comfort reasons.

Step 3: Remove Solid Matter ASAP

Use paper towels or an old rag to carefully pick up any solid matter. Remember, the sooner you remove it, the easier cleanup will be later.

Quick Tip: A spatula or plastic scraper can help lift stubborn solids from carpets and upholstery.

Step 4: Blot Up Moisture

After removing solid matter, absorb as much moisture as you can using dry towels or paper towels. Press firmly, but don't rub—rubbing pushes the mess deeper into fabric fibers.

Step 5: Basic DIY Cleaning Solution (Temporary Fix)

If you're unable to reach a professional immediately, here’s a quick household cleaning solution to reduce stains and odor temporarily:

• Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle.

• Spray the affected area generously, but don't soak it.

• Blot again with clean towels or microfiber cloths.

Note: Avoid over-saturating upholstery or carpet, as it can lead to mold growth.

Step 6: Absorb Odors Temporarily

Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the affected area. Baking soda absorbs odors and helps to dry the spot. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or even overnight if possible. Afterward, vacuum it up thoroughly.

When DIY Isn’t Enough (And It Often Isn’t)

Let’s face reality—while vinegar and baking soda are helpful in a pinch, the strong odor of vomit tends to linger, especially if the mess seeped deep into your vehicle's seats or carpets. And when the Boston sun heats up your interior, the smell will often come back even stronger.

This is when professional detailing comes into play.

Call the Professionals: Why You Need Viper Car Detailing

At Viper Car Detailing, we’re specialists in removing tough odors and stains from your car's interior. Our vomit cleanup service goes beyond surface-level cleaning and includes:

• Professional Carpet & Upholstery Extraction: Deep cleaning to lift stains from fabrics and carpets.

• Steam Cleaning & Sanitization: Eliminates harmful bacteria and viruses lingering in your upholstery.

• Ozone Treatment: Powerful odor-neutralizing technology that destroys odor-causing bacteria at the molecular level.

• Interior Detailing: A thorough cleaning of every surface in your car, leaving it fresh, sanitized, and smelling brand new.

Our team has cleaned hundreds of vehicles with stubborn odors, and our customers from Boston, Somerville, Quincy, and throughout the South Shore know they can trust us for guaranteed results.

Prevention: How to Avoid Future Incidents

While we can't guarantee your passengers won't get sick again (we’re looking at you, Fenway Park tailgaters), there are simple preventative measures you can take:

• Keep disposable vomit bags in your glove compartment.

• Place removable seat covers or waterproof floor mats to make cleanup easier.

• Regularly get professional interior detailing to maintain your vehicle’s cleanliness.

Book Your Professional Vomit & Odor Removal Today!

Don't stress another minute about that vomit smell in your car. Trust Viper Car Detailing to restore your vehicle’s interior back to its fresh, odor-free condition. We service Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Quincy, Medford, and surrounding areas within 12 miles of zip code 02145.

Call or Text: (617) 468-8211

Book Online: www.vipercardetailing.com

Service Area: Mobile detailing throughout Greater Boston & South Shore

Remember, professional intervention is the fastest, safest, and most effective way to fully recover from a vomit incident in your vehicle. At Viper Car Detailing, we turn your car from a place you dread sitting into one you'll enjoy driving again.