Hints From Heloise

Sun., Oct. 13, 1996

King Features Syndicate

Dear Heloise: A gallon of milk was left in my car trunk for five days. It leaked into the trunk bed.

We washed it out, washed the liner, put it in the sun, sprayed deodorizer and the trunk still smells. Any ideas? - Laura Mitchell, Terre Haute, Ind.

Your question sent us to the experts. A large car detailing company suggested the following.

Since you washed the liner, the odor could be coming from the metal trunk or even the back of the back seat.

If the milk spilled toward the back of the trunk, it may have seeped into the foam seat. You should check it by removing the seat and looking at the foam. If it soaked into the foam, you may consider having it professionally cleaned or replaced.

If the odor is coming from the metal trunk, clean it thoroughly again with a good all-purpose cleaner. Let dry, then sprinkle baking soda on it and replace the clean liner.

If there is still an odor, here are some home remedies to try.

Activated charcoal works well as an odor absorber. It can be bought in a pet store or large home-improvement store. Fill a coffee can with holes punched in the lid.

Another great hint is freshly ground coffee grinds. Do the same, just put some in a can and keep changing the coffee until the odor goes away. Good luck! - Heloise

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