Here's the truth: no air freshener can beat a smell that has a source. Find the source first, then add a scent you love. Here are the usual suspects.
1. Food and drinks
Fries under the seat, a spilled latte in the carpet. Vacuum under and between the seats, and clean spills with a carpet cleaner.
2. A dirty cabin air filter
This filter cleans the air coming through your vents. When it's old, the whole car can smell stale. Many are easy to swap yourself; check your owner's manual.
3. Damp carpets and mats
Rain, snow and wet shoes lead to that musty smell. Take mats out to dry fully and check for leaks if the carpet stays wet.
4. The AC system
A musty smell when you turn on the air can come from moisture in the system. Running the fan without AC for a few minutes before you park can help dry it out. A mechanic can clean it if it keeps happening.
5. Gym bags and shoes
Sweat and closed doors are a bad mix. Don't leave gear in the car overnight.
6. Smoke
Smoke soaks into the headliner, seats and vents. A deep clean of fabric surfaces is the only real fix.
7. Pets
Use a seat cover, vacuum often and wash the cover regularly.
Then make it smell expensive
Once the car is clean, a scent stops covering problems and starts setting the mood. Find yours in our 13 designer-inspired car scents, or try the Fragrance Finder.
If you ever smell fuel, burning or exhaust inside the car, don't cover it up. Get it checked by a mechanic right away.