Pat the spilled milk instead of rubbing it, so that you don’t spread it around or push it deeper into the fibers of your car’s upholstery. The same goes for leather upholstery. Aggressive rubbing can force spilled liquids in deeper. [2] X Research source
Some auto care experts recommend scrubbing the stain with a soft-bristle scrub brush to work the baking soda into the fibers of fabric upholstery. [4] X Research source Make sure the area is mostly dry already before you sprinkle on the baking soda. Otherwise, the soda will harden and become difficult to clean up. [5] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source Baking soda works well for soaking up stains on leather as well as fabric upholstery. [6] X Research source
If the spill has already started to smell a little sour, leave the baking soda on a bit longer before you vacuum it up. Try to let it sit for at least 60 minutes, or overnight if possible. [8] X Research source For leather upholstery, simply buff away the baking soda with a dry cloth. [9] X Research source
If you’re not sure whether carpet cleaner is safe to use in your car, you can also get upholstery cleaners specifically designed for cars. Look for these cleaners in your local auto parts store or in the automotive section of a department or hardware store. If you’re worried about lingering odors, follow up by spritzing the stained area with an enzyme-based odor neutralizer. Use a stain or odor remover containing protease, which can break down animal-based stains, such as milk or formula. [11] X Research source
You can buy cleansers made for leather car upholstery at an auto parts store or in the automotive section of most department or hardware stores. You can also make your own leather cleaner by mixing 1 part water with 1 part vinegar.
For a little extra cleaning power, add 1 or 2 drops of dish soap to your vinegar solution. If your car has leather upholstery, mix up a 2:1 combination of olive oil and vinegar instead of water and vinegar. Spray the cleaner onto the stain and gently buff the area with a soft cloth.
Depending on what kind of cleaner you’re using, you may need to wear gloves to protect your skin from irritation. You can also try using a citrus-based cleaner to break down milk fats.
You can also get rotating brushes that attach to a hand drill for quicker stain removal.
Choose a lint-free cloth so that you don’t leave behind fuzz and debris on your car seat or floor mat. Most car upholstery cleaners don’t have to be rinsed out after you apply them, but check the label on your product to be sure. For instance, you may have to wipe the area with a damp cloth after applying the cleaner.
You can buy a small dehumidifier for under $30, or rent one from a home supply store. You can also speed up the drying process by going over the damp spots with a hair dryer if you don’t have access to a dehumidifier.
Leaving an open box of baking soda in the car, or sprinkling baking soda on the area where the stain was and leaving it overnight. Vacuum it up the next day. Leaving an open container of coffee beans in the car overnight. Setting a box of kitty litter near the spot where the smell is coming from, or sprinkling litter on the stain. [22] X Research source
