Remove gasoline smell fast. Whether it’s on your clothes, in your garage, car trunk, or spilled on the floor, that sharp, lingering odor can be overwhelming and even dangerous. But don’t worry, this guide walks you through exactly how to remove gasoline smell from every common surface using proven, household-safe techniques.

Gasoline fumes aren’t just unpleasant, they’re also flammable and harmful to your health in large amounts. So let’s tackle that odor head-on and freshen your space the right way.

Why It’s Important to Remove Gasoline Smell Immediately

Before jumping into solutions, let’s talk about why you need to remove gasoline smell quickly:

  • Health hazard: Prolonged exposure to gasoline fumes can cause headaches, dizziness, or nausea.
  • Fire risk: Gasoline vapors are highly flammable.
  • Absorbs fast: Gasoline soaks deep into fabric, concrete, and other porous materials.

That’s why it’s essential to act fast and follow the right method based on where the spill occurred.

1. Remove Gasoline Smell from Clothing

gasoline on clothes

Gasoline-soaked clothing doesn’t just stink, it can also damage your washing machine if not treated properly. Follow these steps carefully:

Step-by-Step:

  1. Air It Out: Hang clothes outside for several hours to evaporate lingering fumes.
  2. Soak in Vinegar: Fill a tub with warm water and add 1 cup of white vinegar. Let it soak for 1–2 hours.
  3. Sprinkle Baking Soda: After soaking, rub baking soda into the stained area to neutralize the smell.
  4. Use Heavy-Duty Detergent: Wash alone in cold water with a strong detergent (avoid hot water, it sets the smell).
  5. Repeat If Needed: Smell still there? Repeat the process before drying.

Never put gasoline-stained clothes directly into the dryer, it can ignite the fumes.

2. Remove Gasoline Smell from Your Car

inside car smell

Gas spilled in your car? That small puddle can stink up the entire interior fast.

Here’s what to do:

  • Blot the spill immediately with paper towels or an absorbent cloth.
  • Sprinkle cat litter or baking soda generously over the area. Let sit for several hours.
  • Vacuum up the litter or powder.
  • Clean the area with a vinegar-water mix or an enzyme cleaner.
  • Air out the car with windows down for at least 12–24 hours.

Optional: Place a bowl of coffee grounds or activated charcoal under the seat to absorb lingering odors.

3. Remove Gasoline Smell from Concrete or Garage Floors

gasoline in floor

Garage spills happen, especially if you’re filling a mower or storing fuel. But concrete is porous, so removing gasoline smell from your garage takes a little elbow grease.

What to do:

  1. Absorb the spill with cat litter or cornstarch.
  2. Sweep and dispose of it in a safe, sealed bag.
  3. Mix dish soap, vinegar, and hot water in a bucket.
  4. Scrub the area with a stiff brush.
  5. Rinse and repeat if necessary.

Pro Tip: After cleaning, place a bowl of baking soda or charcoal in the garage overnight to absorb residual fumes.

4. Remove Gasoline Smell from Shoes or Sneakers

smelly shoes

Shoes soaked in gasoline? Don’t toss them just yet.

Steps to follow:

  • Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch inside and outside the shoe.
  • Let it sit overnight in a well-ventilated space.
  • Clean fabric shoes with a vinegar-water mix using a cloth or brush.
  • Wash shoelaces separately in hot water with detergent.
  • Air dry outside, never in a dryer.

For leather shoes, use a leather cleaner and let them sit outdoors to air out.

5. Remove Gasoline Smell from the Washing Machine

washing machine

Accidentally washed gas-stained clothes? Your washer needs a clean, too.

Try this:

  • Run an empty hot water cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar.
  • After that, sprinkle baking soda directly into the drum and run a second rinse.
  • Leave the door open afterward to air it out.

Pro Tip: Place an open box of baking soda inside overnight to absorb remaining odor.

6. Use Natural Odor Neutralizers to Remove Gasoline Smell

activated charcoal

Sometimes the smell lingers even after cleaning. Here are a few powerful odor absorbers to try:

  • Activated Charcoal: Place in a small bowl near the affected area.
  • Coffee Grounds: Surprisingly effective, place them in a breathable pouch or bowl.
  • White Vinegar: Set a bowl of vinegar in the room to neutralize airborne odors.
  • Baking Soda: Classic solution, leave it open in the room or inside containers.

Let them sit overnight (or longer) for maximum results.

7. Safety First: What NOT to Do When Trying to Remove Gasoline Smell

safety first

  • Don’t mix bleach with gasoline, this creates toxic fumes.
  • Don’t use heat (dryer, hair dryer) to dry gas-soaked items.
  • Don’t ignore the smell, lingering gasoline is dangerous.
  • Don’t store gas indoors or in unventilated areas.

When in doubt, always air it out. Ventilation is key to removing gasoline smell safely.

Remove Gasoline Smell the Right Way

Gasoline odors aren’t just annoying, they’re hazardous. Whether it’s a small spill on your clothes or a big mess in the garage, acting fast and using the right method makes all the difference. Follow these expert-backed solutions to remove gasoline smell from your home, clothes, or car safely and completely.

Want It Done Right? Book a Pro Cleaner Today

Tired of chasing stubborn odors or messes? Let Hellamaid take care of it for you.

With years of experience, eco-friendly cleaning options, and top-rated professional cleaners, Hellamaid is trusted by thousands to handle everything from routine cleanups to deep odor removal and more.

Book your professional cleaning today!

Let Hellamaid help you breathe easier and live fresher, starting today.