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Nobody likes a smelly car. If you’ve cleaned your car but just can’t get that rancid smell to go away, you’ll want to consider a good car odor eliminator. Finding the right one depends on what you’re dealing with and your personal preferences. However, we’ve taken some of the leg work out of finding the right odor eliminator for your car.

Things to Consider in Car Odor Eliminators
With many smells to eliminate, and many products on the market, you’ll want to make a few considerations before grabbing an odor eliminator for your car.
Type of Odor Eliminators
There are several different types of odor eliminators to use in your car, depending on much time or effort you’re willing to put in, or how aggressive of an odor you’re facing.
Spot Sprays
Odor eliminators that come premixed in a spray bottle make it quick and easy to get down to business. You can spot spray affected areas, such as in the case of pet accidents, or you can hit your entire car to zap lingering odors like those from smoke. Just be mindful of the directions – some sprays don’t mix well with leather and plastics, and can cause damage to certain surfaces.
Concentrates
These are concentrated odor eliminators meant to be diluted in water. With concentrates, you can customize the strength, making them great for dealing with harsh odors. Concentrates are also often more economical in the long run.
For instance, the Chemical Guys New Car Smell Odor Eliminator makes up to 2 full gallons worth of spray. Using it in moderation, it could easily last you a full year.
Foggers
These set-and-forget aerosol sprays are one of the easiest and quickest ways to freshen your car up and eliminate foul odors. They are also perhaps the most dangerous – with foggers, you’ll want to make sure your car is clear of pets and people. When activating a fogger’s locking trigger, make sure you also keep it pointed away from you.
Vent and Duct Aerosols
Foggers work great for your whole car, including your vents and ducts. But if you’ve got a problem in your car’s AC system, you might specifically opt for a vent and duct odor eliminator. These aerosols are meant to go into your vents inside your car, as well as your air intake outside the car. They usually come with a straw that helps you get down inside your vents.
Gel
A gel that sits passively to eliminate odors around the clock. These are useful if you smoke in your car, but you don’t want your car smelling like stale smoke. They also work great as a general air freshener that eliminates odors.
Charcoal Bags
Another great passive option, they utilize charcoal’s absorbent properties to suck up odors and trap them. These are also non-toxic, environmentally safe, and have no smell, making them great if you’re sensitive to smells.
Powder
Powder odor eliminators are simple products you sprinkle onto your fabrics and then vacuum up. With some powders, you can also mix them with water and use them as a spot spray.
Type of Odors
Odor eliminators have one job and one job only: get rid of that gnarly stench in your car. Next you need to consider what odors you’re dealing with. Here are a few common types of odors:
Pet Smells
This is a catch-all for any odors caused by your pets, from wet dog smell to vomit and accidents. If you’ve got an organic mess in your carpet or seats, you’ll seriously want to consider a product specifically meant to tackle these messes, like Rocco & Roxie Supply Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator. It’s formulated with special enzymes that will take out stains and eat odors caused by pets.
Smoke
Stale smoke odors are the worst, especially if you’re a non-smoker. Most odor eliminators will tackle smoke odors to some degree. But if you want to be extra sure you’ll rid your car of that horrendous stench, you might want to consider something specifically made for smoke odors, such as Armor All’s Smoke X Odor Eliminator.
If you’re a current smoker, but want to keep your car smelling as fresh as possible, you can also try using the Ozium Smoke & Odors Eliminator Gel. This stuff works passively around the clock to help keep your car smelling fresh, and lasts for months.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are an unfortunate side effect of high humidity. You might find mold and mildew in your air ducts, especially if you commonly run your air conditioner. If you’ve isolated the smell to your vents and ducts, you’ll either want an aerosol fogger or an air duct cleaner like the Armor All Car Vent and Duct Odor Eliminator.
Safety
All odor eliminators can be safe as long as you use them as directed. Still, you might want to opt for a non-toxic option to avoid potential health problems and disasters.
If you’re looking for something that’s non-toxic and environmentally friendly, you might want to check out Van Den Heuvels R86 Industrial Odor Eliminator.
Suitable Surfaces
Your car’s interior is made up of rubber, vinyl, plastic, fabrics, and maybe even leather. With so many types of surfaces, you’ll want to be sure to choose an odor eliminator that’s safe for the surfaces you’re treating.
Some sprays are meant for fabrics only, and can damage the plastic, leather, or vinyl components. Others are safe for all water-safe surfaces. Be sure you’re grabbing the right stuff for the job so you don’t ruin your car trying to tame foul odors.
Now, keeping in mind some of the basics, let’s look at some of the best car odor eliminators we’ve found.

Top 10 Best Car Odor Eliminators 2021
1. Best Overall Odor Eliminator: Febreze Eliminator Extra Strength + Unstopables

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Why we like it: From a reputable company, it’s rather inexpensive, works great, and can neutralize the toughest odors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Spot spray
Type of odors: All
Safety: Safe when dry
Surfaces: Fabrics
A staple in many households, Febreze is well-known for being one of the best odor eliminators around. Formulated to attract and neutralize odors, this package is a double-whammy for foul odors in your car.
It includes a bottle of Febreze Fabric Extra Strength and Febreze Fabric “UnStopables,” a more concentrated formula. Both bottles contain a proprietary formula that is safe for all fabrics except leather, suede, and silk. However, be sure to do a test spray in an inconspicuous spot if you’re worried about potential water spotting or other issues.
In addition to eliminating foul odors in your car, Febreze is also great for around the house. Being versatile and relatively inexpensive, it’s a safe bet and works effectively on most foul odors that linger.
Both sprays have a strong fresh linen scent that will fade as they dry. If you’re sensitive to chemical fragrances, this could be a little too strong for you – especially the “UnStopables.” In that case, you might consider spraying when you plan to be away from your car for a while, and then briefly air it out before you get in again.
If you’d rather opt for a more natural smell, you might be interested in checking out the Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator. It doesn’t contain the same odor-trapping chemicals Febreze includes, but it’s a powerful natural cleaner capable of eliminating odors while leaving a fresh orange scent behind.
Nevertheless, Febreze is a common household name for a reason. Whether you’re trying to tackle old smoke and pet odors, or you just want an effective multi-use odor eliminator for your car and home, Febreze is a solid choice.

Pros
Tackles many types of foul odors
Safe on nearly all fabrics
Multiple bottles of different scents
Inexpensive
Fresh linen scent

Cons
Fragrance may be too strong and artificial for some people

2. Best Premium Odor Eliminator: Angry Orange Ready-to-Use Citrus Pet Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: It’s natural, non-toxic, biodegradable, and makes your car smell like an orange orchard.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Spot spray
Type of odors: All
Safety: Biodegradable and non-toxic
Surfaces: Most water-safe surfaces
Angry Orange’s Ready-to-Use Pet Odor Eliminator is a great choice if you want to eliminate tough odors, or just freshen your car up. Despite the fact that it’s marketed as a pet odor eliminator, it’s a great all-around odor eliminator strong enough to work on smelly pet accidents.
The smell is insanely strong, yet natural and fairly pleasant. You should be prepared for an orange bomb after you spray it, especially if you’re putting it in a small, enclosed area like your car. However, given time, it will fade, and you can always further dilute it to lessen the intensity of the smell.
If you have a sensitive nose, Angry Orange may be a bit overwhelming. If you’d rather opt for a natural odor eliminator that doesn’t have a smell, you might want to consider the Basic Concepts Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags. However, you should also keep in mind that – unlike Angry Orange – charcoal bags are a passive solution and won’t attack the source of foul odors.
Angry Orange is safe for nearly all water-safe surfaces and safe around children and pets. However, you’ll want to be careful with plastic. Concentrated orange oil can melt through polystyrene. This bottle isn’t a pure orange oil concentrate, but it could still cause some issues with clouding on your car’s dashboard. As such, you should always do an inconspicuous test spray before going nuts with it.
If you love the smell of citrus, or you just want a natural and potent alternative to the likes of Febreze and other artificial odor eliminator sprays, this stuff is the perfect solution for you!

Pros
Great for all-around use
Smells great and all-natural
Works especially well on pet odors
Safe for most surfaces

Cons
Smell may be overwhelming for some
May not be safe to spray on plastics

3. Best Budget Odor Eliminator: Chemical Guys AIR_101_16 New Car Smell Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Aiming to give your car that new car smell, this stuff will last forever, making up to 2 gallons of spray.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Concentrate
Type of odors: All
Safety: May irritate eyes
Surfaces: Fabric (not safe for use on plastic)
Sometimes a little can go a long way, and with the Chemical Guys New Car Smell Odor Eliminator, that certainly holds true. At a highly competitive price, this small 16-ounce bottle of concentrate makes up to 2 gallons of spray that will last for a long time, making it a highly economical choice.
It won’t just mask odors either. Containing odor-fighting enzymes, it seeks to eliminate odors at the source, leaving behind an odor that’s supposed to make your car smell as if you just drove it off the lot. It also contains enzymes that will break down odor-causing molecules, so you can be sure it won’t just mask odors.
Like Angry Orange, this stuff has a powerful smell. That means you’ll either want to dilute it as per the instructions, or go light – one spray of the concentrate under your floor mats should be more than enough, and can even be overwhelming if you’re sensitive to smell.
Since this spray from Chemical Guys aims to mimic the freshly-tanned leather and clean rubber and plastic of a new car, it’s going to have an artificial chemical smell. If you’d rather a more natural scent, you might consider something like Angry Orange, an equally potent natural solution.
This spray is meant for fabric only, and it can damage your dashboard. You’ll want to avoid spraying it on your dash or in the air. You’ll also want to give the spray some time to set and dry – we recommend spraying when you’ve got a few hours to let it set.
Whether you’re combating stale smoke odors or just looking to keep your car smelling crisp, this is a great choice for keeping your car smelling as close to new as you can get.

Pros
Inexpensive
Concentrate means it will last for a long time
Odor-fighting enzymes to eliminate odors at the source
Strong smell will overpower foul odors

Cons
Chemical smell can be overwhelming
Can cause damage to dash if used inappropriately

4. Best Pet Odor Eliminator: Rocco & Roxie Supply Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Formulated with enzymes, it will break down organic odors at the source and eliminate stains as well.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Spot spray
Type of odors: Organic/pet odors
Safety: Safe when dry
Surfaces: All water-safe surfaces
If you frequently travel with your pets, then you’ll want to pick up a bottle of Rocco & Roxie Supply’s Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator. One of the best pet stain and odor eliminators on the market, it’s great for combating foul pet odors like wet dog smell and pet accidents. The company also offers a 100% money-back guarantee.
Containing a powerful blend of enzymatic bacteria that will tackle the worst organic odors and stains, it’s safe for use around pets and children. It’s also safe on virtually all surfaces, and is certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute as safe for all carpets.
Keep in mind that this product has a strong fragrance. The smell of this spray might not be as strong as some of the other products we’ve listed, but just know it’s not totally scent-free. However, the smell fades as it dries, and it sure beats foul odors from pet accidents and the like.
If you’re looking to rid your vehicle of smoke odors, this product may help. However, the company recommends you use a product designed for smoke odors – something like the Armor All Smoke X Car Odor Eliminator is a perfect solution for dealing with smoke odors.
Other than potentially not working for smoke odors, the only real issue we see with this product is the price, which is rather high compared to other products on this list. Still, given its effectiveness and stellar money-back guarantee, you don’t really have anything to lose.

Pros
Works great on pet odors and stains
Safe for nearly all surfaces
Certified safe for all carpets

Cons
Strong smell
High price
May not work on smoke odors

5. Best Aerosol Odor Eliminator: Meguiar’s G16402 Whole Car Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: This little can can clear your whole car of foul odors, reaching hard-to-reach spots, with the press of a button.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Fogger
Type of odors: All
Safety: Flammable and toxic (direct exposure)
Surfaces: All
Since 1901, Meguiar’s has been making car care products for car lover’s the world over. If you want to deodorize your whole car quickly and easily, then Meguiar’s Whole Car Odor Eliminator is a good choice for you.
This little can of aerosol makes it effortless to have your car smelling like new. With a locking trigger on the can, you can simply set it and forget it (for 15 minutes). After letting your car air out for an additional 10-15 minutes, it’s now ready to drive, free of the foul odors you’re looking to rid your car of.
You won’t have to worry about this causing any adverse reactions with the interior of your car. It won’t stain fabrics or ruin leather, plastics, or other components of your car’s interior.
Like other odor eliminating products that aim to emulate that “new car smell,” this stuff might not hit the nail on the head. However, it does leave a fresh and clean smell behind, getting into hard-to-reach places that other odor eliminators can’t.
Aside from personal smell preferences, there are really only 2 downsides to this product. First, you should absolutely not have any living things in your car when you spray it, as it’s highly toxic if you’re directly exposed to it. It’s also flammable, so you’ll want to keep it away from sparks and flames, and store it in a cool area.
That aside, it’s not as versatile as other odor eliminators like the Febreze odor eliminators. If you want something you can use in your car and home, then this might not be right for you. But of course, Febreze is generally made for fabrics only, making Meguiar’s an excellent choice if you’re looking to make your entire car smell good.

Pros
Works quickly
Simple to use
Works in hard-to-reach places
Leaves a fresh and clean smell

Cons
Can be toxic and flammable
Not as versatile as other odor eliminators

6. Best Fragrance-Free Odor Eliminator: Basic Concepts Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags

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Why we like it: Non-toxic, odor-free, and easy to use. You can set them and forget them, and these bags will last for 2 full years.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Charcoal bag
Type of odors: All
Safety: Non-toxic
Surfaces: All
If you’re sensitive to smells, it can be hard to find a good odor eliminator that doesn’t carry an overwhelming odor itself. However, the Basic Concepts Bamboo Charcoal Air Purifying Bags are a great fragrance-free odor eliminator that are great for small spaces like your vehicle. They’re also natural and non-toxic, making them great for anyone looking for a natural alternative to chemicals and sprays.
Made with activated bamboo charcoal, these bags sit idly by and adsorb odors that permeate the air. They do so by trapping the odors within the confines of the hundreds of square meters of surface area the activated charcoal has, thereby blocking odors from reaching your nose.
Of course, this means these bags aren’t good for taking care of odors at their source. As such, they aren’t great at tackling particularly offensive odors that need to be dealt with immediately, such as pet urine.
Rather, charcoal bags like these are better at controlling perpetual odors like smoke or mildew, or in situations where they’ll have time to work (which can take a while, depending on the severity and source of the odors).
They also work great in combination with other odor eliminators. Sprays that tackle odors at the source, such as Rocco & Roxie Supply’s Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator, are great at zapping smells from the source, while these bags can help lessen the intensity of the spray’s fragrance.
Given that these bags are useful for up to 2 years, they are a worthy consideration as both a stand-alone and a supplemental purchase. They won’t harm your car or your loved ones, and they’ll stop your car from smelling bad.

Pros
Natural and non-toxic
Fragrance-free
Works for up to 2 years

Cons
Won’t eliminate odors at their source
Can take a while to work

7. Best Odor Eliminating Gel: Ozium 804281-4 Smoke & Odors Eliminator Gel

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Why we like it: Made by a reputable brand, this works around the clock, great against recurring odors, and lasts for months.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Gel
Type of odors: Smoke
Safety: Non-flammable
Surfaces: All
Ozium is a popular odor eliminator, and the Ozium Smoke and Odors Eliminator Gel is a great way to keep your car smelling great for months. It deals with foul odors by attaching to airborne bacteria, odors and contaminants as it evaporates. Made to eliminate smoke and other lingering odors, it leaves a fresh fragrance in its midst.
Since this is a passive air eliminator, like Basic Concepts’ Charcoal Bags, it works around the clock to slowly eliminate odors. Likewise, it can be placed anywhere in your car to effectively eliminate odors wherever they are. Unlike charcoal, however, it will eventually reach the source of odors as the gel slowly evaporates and permeates the air.
This gel has a very synthetic, cleaner-type smell. If you’re sensitive to chemical smells, you might be better off going with something like the charcoal bags. However, they do have an adjustable vent cap. This allows you to control the amount of fragrance emitted from the can, giving you some control over the smell.
Because the gel is formulated for use in cars, it won’t melt in high temperatures that are common in vehicles during warm weather. It will, however, evaporate at a quicker rate in high temperatures, meaning the duration of their effectiveness will depend on how warm your car typically gets.
Overall, given their effectiveness on foul odors and their long-lasting effects, they’re perfect for taming recurring foul odors or just keeping your vehicle smelling clean.

Pros
Works for months
Adjustable vent caps
Heat-resistant gel won’t melt in high temperatures
Works great on recurring odors like smoke

Cons
Won’t last as long in high temperatures
Works slowly to eliminate odors
Has a strong synthetic smell

8. Best Odor Eliminator for Smoke: Armor All Smoke X Car Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Made specifically for smoke odors, it will take away smoke smells quickly and effectively.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Fogger
Type of odors: Smoke
Safety: Flammable and toxic (direct exposure)
Surfaces: All
Whether you’re an ex-smoker or you’ve just bought a car from someone who smokes, you’ll find that smoke smells linger long after the smoke has cleared. Armor All’s Smoke X Car Odor Eliminator fogger quickly eliminates lingering smoke odors for good.
Unlike spot sprayers, this will work well to reach smells throughout your entire car, including inside your vents and ducts. It’s also easier to use than traditional odor eliminating sprays – simply trigger the can’s locking mechanism, turn on your air conditioner and set it to recirculate, and let the eliminator work for 15 minutes.
Like other odor eliminating foggers, this stuff is toxic if inhaled. You’ll want to remember to give your car time to air out after using it, and keep plants, pets and people clear of the vehicle during use.
While this stuff works great on combating foul odors, it won’t work as well on other foul odors as it does on smoke odors. It also has a scent that’s reminiscent of an 80s cologne, which certainly isn’t for everyone.
If you still want to go the fogger route, you might want to consider using Meguiar’s Whole Car Odor Eliminator. However, Meguiar’s eliminator is not specifically formulated to work on smoke odors, so it might not be as effective as Armor All’s solution for eliminating smoke odors.
If you’re specifically combating smoke odors, you’ll certainly want to give Armor All’s Smoke X Odor eliminator a try. Given it’s relatively low cost, it’s worth a try if you want to stop your car smelling like a stale ashtray.

Pros
Specially formulated to combat smoke odors
Quick and easy to use
Cheap

Cons
Can be toxic and flammable
Not as versatile as other odor eliminators
Smells like cologne

9. Best Vent Odor Eliminator: Armor All Car Vent and Duct Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: It makes eliminating odors from your vents easy, it has a pleasant light scent, and it kills mold and mildew.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Vent and duct aerosol
Type of odors: Mold and mildew
Safety: Flammable and toxic (direct exposure)
Surfaces: Vents and ducts
If you live in a warm climate with high humidity, then you’ve probably dealt with a musty smell coming from your vents at one point or another. Unlike most other odor eliminators, the Armor All Car Vent and Duct Odor Eliminator is great at combating odors from within your car’s AC system.
You’ll want to spray this into your car’s interior vents as well as the intake vent on the outside of your car. It will help kill any mold or mildew residing in your ducts, as well as any other lingering odors. To help it maximize its effectiveness, you’ll want to check out our recommendations below before using it.
The scent of this vent and duct cleaner is a light and pleasant tropical smell. However, the smell of the spray doesn’t last very long – a few days at most. This could be good or bad, depending on your preferences, but it would be nice to see a longer-lasting fragrance.
Because this spray is only for your ducts and vents, it won’t work if the source of the foul odors in your car reside elsewhere. It may also work best in combination with another effective odor eliminator, like Meguiar’s Whole Car Odor Eliminator.
Given its relatively low price, using it with another odor eliminator will help deliver a 1-2 punch to foul odors inside your vehicle. But even by itself, it’ll work wonders for musty and malodorous vents.

Pros
Kills mold and mildew
Light tropical scent
Low price
Works great as a supplemental odor eliminator

Cons
Only useful for ducts and vents
Smell doesn’t last very long

10. Best Non-Toxic Odor Eliminator: Van Den Heuvels R86 Industrial Odor Eliminator

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Why we like it: Coming in a powdered form, this stuff is useful for all sorts of odors and is non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type of eliminator: Powder
Type of odors: All
Safety: Non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable
Surfaces: All salt-safe surfaces
If you have a particularly pernicious foul odor plaguing your car, you might want to consider using an industrial-strength odor eliminator. Van Den Heuvels R86 Industrial Odor Eliminator is one such product that’s meant to tackle stubborn odors like skunk smell, smoke, vomit, and decay.
What’s fascinating about this product is that, despite being an industrial-strength odor eliminator, it’s actually non-toxic, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable. But don’t let its natural makeup fool you – this isn’t your granny’s baking soda, though it works similarly.
The actual odor eliminator is a proprietary blend of odor-absorbing salts and essential oils for fragrance that you can use wet or dry. That means you can simply sprinkle it on your carpets and seats and vacuum it off later, or you can mix it with water and put it in a spray bottle.
The smell is often described as being either a vanilla or banana smell – sweet but not flowery. This can be off-putting to some, but it entirely depends on your preference. And while R86 is marketed as having a faint fragrance, some people might find it too strong. However, the smell will fade in a few days, and isn’t as overpowering as other odor eliminators like Angry Orange.
This odor eliminator is best used on the source of the odor, and you may need to leave it on for a while to work. You’ll also want to be careful with this stuff around metal in your car. Since it consists of salt and essential oils, it can damage your car’s finish or accelerate rusting on unfinished metal.
Overall, it’s a great product meant to treat horrendous smells. It’s a bit pricey, but if you’ve tried other odor eliminators to no avail, it could be worth your while to give this stuff a try.

Pros
Great for all types of intense foul odors
Industrial-strength
Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
Can be used wet or dry

Cons
Fragrance may be off-putting for some people
Can cause damage to metal and paint
Expensive

Everything You Need to Know About Car Odor Eliminators

We’ve covered some odor elimination basics and a number of great products for all smells. Before using an odor eliminator in your car, you should consider a few things to maximize their effectiveness and ensure you’re banishing offensive odors for good.
Why Old Odors Come Back
You may have used an odor eliminator in the past, only to find that the foul odors you’re trying to eliminate don’t leave permanently. There’s actually a perfectly reasonable explanation for this.
You see, sometimes smells will naturally fade on their own as they dry out. For example, as urine dries, the uric acids eventually crystallize and cease to emit urine’s pungent odor. Without removing this residue, the source of the smell still resides in your carpet or upholstery, but sits dormant.
Many odor eliminators like Febreze also contain molecules that trap odors. These odors will stay trapped within those molecules, and lie inert on the surface of your carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces where the odors originally resided.
In both cases, the re-introduction of moisture can trigger the return of foul odors. For odors like urine, the introduction of moisture allows the uric acid to begin emitting the smell back into the air. Meanwhile, odor-trapping molecules will release trapped odor-producing molecules on contact with moisture.
That’s why you may find things like Febreze an ineffective long-term solution. Even something as seemingly benign as high humidity can cause odors to resurface and re-offend.
This leaves you with 2 options: mechanically remove the source of the odor from your car, or break them down chemically. Some odors, like wet dog smell and pet urine, can be broken down with enzymes like those found in Rocco & Roxie Supply’s Professional Strength Stain and Odor Eliminator, while others may need to be removed with an upholstery or steam cleaner.
Maximizing the Effectiveness of Your Chosen Odor Eliminator
Car odor eliminators are a great alternative to tearing out your interior and doing a full detailed clean. After you’ve chosen an odor eliminator, you should make sure to do a few things to maximize their effectiveness.
Remove the Source of Offending Odors
Ashes and dirty gym bags will diminish the effectiveness of any odor eliminator. If you want your odor eliminator to completely eliminate foul odors, you should make sure to clean your car before using them. A good vacuuming and a quick once-over to make sure any stray malodorous objects are removed will help keep odors away for good.
For stubborn odors that have seeped into your car’s seats and carpet, you may need to bring out the big guns. A good steam cleaner will help any odor eliminator go the extra mile in effectively eliminating foul odors from your car.
Replace Your Cabin Air Filter
Even after you’ve cleaned your car and removed the source of the odors, you might notice offensive odors still faintly lingering. There’s a good chance that your cabin air filter is at least partially responsible for this faint lingering smell.
Because the cabin air filter filters out dust and debris from your car, it’s likely that some of the lingering odor molecules are trapped in your filter. The best solution for dealing with this is to replace your cabin filter if possible.
Cabin air filters are relatively inexpensive, and are a great way to keep the air you’re breathing clean. It’s also good practice to routinely change your cabin air filter regularly, both to keep your car smelling fresh and for optimal performance.
Use Removable Seat Covers for Pets
If you’re a pet owner, having a removable seat cover is a must to avoid pet musk. This could be anything from a blanket or sheet to an actual seat cover. A seat cover won’t prevent all accidents and smells. But having something you can easily pull out of your car and properly wash will save you the time and hassle of constantly cleaning and deodorizing your car directly.
Avoid Storing Most Odor Eliminators in Your Car
It really goes without saying, storing most odor eliminators in your car can lead to disaster. Many sprays and aerosols contain flammable substances that can cause a fire. This is especially prevalent with aerosol sprays, which can explode inside your car in extreme hot or cold temperatures.
Fire and explosion hazards aside, you’ll want to keep leakage in mind. Accidents happen and sometimes things leak. Guess where it’ll end up if you keep it stored in your car?
If you’re going with a passive odor eliminator, such as Ozium’s Smoke & Odors Eliminator Gel or Basic Concepts’ Charcoal Bags, then you shouldn’t have to worry about temperature problems or leakage. For everything else though? You might just want to leave your car’s smell-good at home.
Wrapping Up
Beating bad odors in your car doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Keeping your car smelling great will keep you and your passengers happier. It will also help preserve your car’s resale value, meaning a small investment now can yield you greater return in the future.
Beating bad odors in your car doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. Keeping your car smelling great will keep you and your passengers happier. It will also help preserve your car’s resale value, meaning a small investment now can yield you greater return in the future. More

Your car is one of the most valuable and most utilized investments that you can ever have in your life. Unfortunately, its underside regularly comes into contact with a wide variety of substances. It can get splashed with water, doused with chemicals, and hit by debris and dirt that you encounter on the road. This exposure can cause major rusting or corrosion on your vehicle, compromising its road-worthiness as well as your safety over time.
Undercoating your vehicle is an excellent way to guarantee that this isn’t going to happen. In this article, we present to you the ultimate guide to undercoating. Not only will we help you choose the best car undercoating paints for all your needs, but we will also tell you everything you need to know about the hows and whys of undercoating your car.

Factors to Consider in Car Undercoating Paints
With the vast choices available for undercoating your vehicle, you may get confused about what makes them all different from each other.
In order to choose the right undercoating paint for your needs, there are several factors that you need to consider first, such as type, function, filling power, durability, volume, and shelf life.
Type
Although all undercoating paints are designed to protect your car from physical damage and natural elements, different types address different needs. It’s important to know what type of paint you need exactly before making your purchase.
One, there are different types of materials that undercoating paints can be based on, such as petroleum, asphalt, silicone, rubber, ceramics, and fiberglass. Two, undercoating paints differ by application as well. Some need to be manually painted; others come in pressurized spray cans for convenient application.
Simply put, different types have different features and benefits. If you want to learn more, this will be discussed in further detail below.
Function
The most basic function of your undercoating paint is to prevent corrosion and rust on the surface of your vehicle. Other functions that you might want to consider are applicability, sound deadening capabilities, the drying period after application, and aesthetics relative to the design you are going for.
Filling Power
This factor refers to how well your undercoat paint covers and spreads through the tiniest nooks and crannies that are present in the underbelly’s surface so that it can smooth out its surface. This is because the more even the surface of your vehicle’s undercarriage is, the better base it provides in case you may want to paint a topcoat of decorative covering.
Durability
The best undercoating paints can last for up to several years, while others can only last for several months. Keep an eye out for the durability of your coating since this will dictate the reapplication times of your paint as well as the money you may spend for initial and continuing costs.
Volume
Undercoating paint products come in various volume denominations. Some come 16 ounces per can, while others yet contain 5 gallons of material. If you’re DYI-ing your undercoating job, you should factor in how much paint you need for the initial coating, as well as the amount you need to buy for future maintenance. Obviously, bigger vehicles have a bigger surface that needs to be coated, so keep this in mind, too.
Shelf Life
Undercoating paints also come with different shelf lives, which comes hand-in-hand with volume. Most products have a shelf life of at least 1 year after being opened, but sometimes they can be shorter or longer. Let’s say you’re using undercoating paint that only has a shelf life of 6 months. How many times are you planning to reapply undercoating in 6 months? If the answer is “0,” you should buy only what you need for one paint job.
With the wide variety of car undercoating paints present in the market, you may find it difficult to find the best option for you.
Fortunately, that’s what we’re here for. We’ve screened through the most common undercoating products in the market right now and determined the good, the bad, and the ugly. Take a look at the list below to choose the best undercoating paint for your specific needs.

Top 10 Best Car Undercoating Paints 2021
1. Best Overall Undercoating Paint: 3M Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating

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Why we like it: The smooth, top coat-ready, protective finish of the 3M Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating certainly lives up to the 3M quality brand name.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized, Asphalt-Based
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: 1 hour
Shelf Life: N/A
3M is one of the leading brands of automotive chemical manufacturers, which is why it’s no surprise that the 3M Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating delivers so well. Although it primarily serves to protect the undercarriage of your car from abrasion, rust, and corrosion, it’s actually a multipurpose coat, which means it also works perfectly in quarter panels, under the hood, and on fender interiors, trunk lids, and wheel wells.
It has an asphalt-based formula that dries to a completely smooth rubberized finish. This not only inhibits rust and corrosion but is also the perfect base for a long-lasting topcoat. It also provides good sound deadening, able to reduce both road and engine noise.
It comes in an easy spray can, perfect for touching up small or narrow parts of your vehicle, but not so much when applying over a wide area. Its no-run formula ensures that the application is never messy. However, it doesn’t offer a lot of coverage for its volume, so you’ll have to apply multiple coats just to get proper coverage. For more intense coverage, consider Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat.

Pros
Multipurpose use
Strong, asphalt-based formula
Easy, no-mess application
Sound deadening properties
Good for small or narrow parts

Cons
More pricey than the competition
Difficult to apply on wider areas
Needs multiple coats for proper coverage

2. Best Premium Undercoating Paint: POR-15 Rust Preventive Paint

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Why we like it: The POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating isn’t just great for undercoating–it’s also an amazing choice for all-around protective coating, making it a premium product worth the premium price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Type: Oil-Based
Method of Application: Brush or Spray
Drying Time: 4.5 hours on average
Shelf Life: 2 years if unopened, around 6 months if opened
POR-15’s best-selling Rust Preventive Coating is a high-tech coating that functions splendidly in protecting your car’s underbelly from the elements and preventing rust from forming.
The best thing about this product is that there’s no need to remove rust completely before applying this to your car. It is specifically designed to be applied to any metal surface, as long as it is prepped properly beforehand. The material dries into a non-porous finish that is as hard as a rock and will never crack or peel. It also lasts a long time, provided that you apply it properly.
That said, even premium products have their own downsides. For this one, shelf life is a little subpar at 6 months. It’s also UV-sensitive, so it can’t be directly exposed to sunlight. For a UV-resistant undercoating paint, take a look at Rust Bullet Automotive. If you’re planning to apply POR-15’s paint to areas that will be facing the sun for a while, you should always apply a topcoat. This is not necessary when applied to unexposed areas, though, making it the ideal undercarriage coating for your vehicle.
Pro-Tip
It works best when used with POR 15’s 3-step rust preventive system, which consists of a cleaner/degreaser, a metal prep, and this rust preventive coating. If applying to exposed areas, finish it off with the POR-15 Top Coat.

Pros
High-quality performance
Protects any kind of metal surface
Can be bought in several container sizes
Lasts a long time if properly applied

Cons
Has a short shelf life after opening
Messy application as it stains everything
UV-sensitive so not ideal for surfaces exposed to the sun

3. Best Budget Undercoating Paint: Rust-Oleum Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating Spray

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Why we like it: The Rust-Oleum Professional Grade Rubberized Undercoating Spray is a fantastic option for people who want to protect their car’s underbelly completely, especially those on a tight budget.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: Dry to the touch in 1 hour; can drive in 24 hours
Shelf Life: 5 years if unopened
Rust-Oleum’s Pro-Grade Rubberized Undercoating Spray is called Pro-Grade for a reason. It dries into a protective high-quality rubberized material that prevents rust and protects against salt, chemicals, moisture, and environmental exposure. Since it’s rubberized, it can even save your car from minor road damages like chips or dents. It also has sound deadening qualities that make for a smooth, quiet ride.
Despite its name, this product comes in both spray and paint form. The spray version comes with the brand’s special any-angle technology and a custom spray tip that makes application easy and convenient, even for complete beginners. The material also dries exceptionally fast compared to other rubberized sprays, becoming dry to touch after just one hour. Keep in mind though you should still wait for 24-48 hours before using your car.
That said, this undercoating spray lets out heavy fumes, so make sure you have your protective gear ready. Also, the standard 15 oz can only cover 10-15 sq. ft., which may be too small depending on the size of your vehicle.
Pro-Tip
If your undercarriage is rusty, you should either grind the rust down first or use the Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer Spray before using this undercoating spray.

Pros
Budget-friendly
High quality, professional-grade product
Ease of use with all-angle spray technology
Fast drying for a rubberized spray

Cons
Spray can only covers 10-15 sq. ft.
Releases heavy fumes upon us

4. Easiest-to-Use Undercoating Paint: Dynatron Dyna-Pro Rubberized Undercoating

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Why we like it: Dynatron’s Dyna-Pro Rubberized Undercoating is an easy-to-use, instant protection against the harsh elements of your day-to-day commute.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Brush, Roll, or Spray
Drying Time: 24 hours
Shelf Life: 1 year if unopened, 4 months if opened
Backed by 3M, Dynatron’s Dyna-Pro Paintable Rubberized Undercoating is a very versatile undercoat that can be used on all types of vehicles. It was specifically formulated to protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from chemical corrosion, rust, and chipping.
It has a good coverage and can be easily applied using a brush, roller, or spray. Once it hardens to its thick, rubberized finish, it becomes tough enough to secure your car against the multitude of minor scrapes that it encounters every day. It also has sound-reducing properties to prevent unnecessarily noisy rides.
You can buy the product in 1-gallon cans that are compatible with paint refinish systems, which means it can be easily matched with any desired OEM colors. Unfortunately, this can also be a big downside, since the shelf-life of the Dyna-Pro is quite short compared to competitors.

Pros
Fast-drying
Strong protection against everyday wear and tear
Sound deadening properties
Compatible with other paint systems

Cons
Pricier than the competition
Short shelf-life

5. Most Versatile Undercoating Paint: Rust Bullet Automotive

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Why we like it: Tough, versatile, and low-maintenance, Rust Bullet’s Automotive rust inhibitor paint is ideal for undercoating your vehicle and any outdoor metal product that can benefit from its super-strong protection.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Non-Rubberized Polyurethane
Method of Application: Brush, Roll, or Spray
Drying Time: 24 hours
Shelf Life: 2 years if unopened, 1 month if opened
Rust Bullet’s Automotive rust inhibitor paint not only fights against rust and corrosion but also keeps your undercarriage safe from abrasions and minor damages. You also don’t need to use a primer or topcoat to use this coating. You can apply it directly on rusty or previously painted surfaces, but it’s always best to clean metal surfaces thoroughly first to ensure optimum performance.
It can be applied to a wide variety of areas including undercarriages, floor pans, frames, suspensions, and rocker panels. It can even be applied to areas exposed to the sun, since it’s completely UV-resistant. It’s a little thinner compared to other paints but that only means that it’s much easier to apply and spread. That said, you’ll need a minimum of two coats for it to last a long time.
Do keep in mind that due to its polyurethane formula, this rust inhibitor paint will start hardening almost immediately after you open the product. This means you should only buy the amount that you actually need for one use. It also tends to stick to everything, so be careful when applying it to your car.
It also does not offer any noise deadening benefits. If you’re looking to reduce noise, consider Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat instead.
Pro-Tip
For best results, apply Rust Bullet Rust Treatment first to rusty areas of your vehicle before using this paint.

Pros
Convenient one-step process
Completely UV-resistant
Protects from physical and chemical damages
No heavy metals to damage your vehicle surface

Cons
Very short shelf life once opened
Sticks to everything and therefore may get messy
No noise deadening capabilities

6. Best Undercoating Paint for Aesthetics: Dupli-Color Professional Rubberized Undercoat

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Why we like it: Plain, simple, and effective, Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat is a good choice for anyone looking for an easy-to-use undercoating.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: rubberized
Method of Application: spray
Drying Time: 2 hours
Shelf Life: N/A
Dupli-Color’s Professional Rubberized Undercoat is a quick-dry, paintable-finish formula that aims not only to protect your car’s undercarriage, but also to improve its aesthetics. It dries to a rubberized matte finish that is perfect for top coating and can help the paint retain its color even after a long time.
It provides good protection against rust, corrosion, and minor abrasions from daily use. It also has great noise deadening capabilities because of the rubberized finish. Coverage is good, provided that you prep the surface properly before application.
Although the formula is rather thick, application is quite messy. The nozzle on the spray can is also not very durable and easily breaks. Lastly, it’s not UV-resistant, so you should only use this strictly for your undercarriage or areas that are unexposed to the sun.

Pros
Paintable
Rubberized, matte, textured finish
Noise deadening capabilities
Quick-drying
Relatively cheap

Cons
Not UV-resistant
Messy application
Flimsy nozzle

7. Best Undercoating Paint for High-Contact Areas: 3M Non-Rubberized Undercoating

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Why we like it: Although it does not perform as great as the brand’s rubberized version, 3M’s multipurpose Non-Rubberized Undercoating is a great, long-lasting, and reliable product in its own right.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Asphalt-Based
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: 30 minutes
Shelf Life: N/A
This version of 3M’s undercoating paint dries solid and very hard. It’s perfect for those areas in your undercarriage that can potentially be exposed to more physical contact with the environment than normal, such as the fenders and wheel wells. Its primary use is to protect the metal from rust, build-up, and abrasions, but it’s also fairly decent at reducing road and vehicle noise.
That said, the substance does take a while to dry. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a full 24 hours for it to fully cure. It also requires you to thoroughly prepare your undercarriage before application, or else it could peel off prematurely.

Pros
Dries into a hard, protective coating
Comes in either paintable or non-paintable variety
Covers marks on metal surface
Decent sound deadening properties
Easy spray application

Cons
Takes a long time to dry
Required prior preparation

8. Simplest Undercoating Paint: Rusfre Automotive Rubberized Material

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Why we like it: Rustfre Automotive Rubberized Material’s beauty lies in its simplicity – it doesn’t offer anything revolutionary, but its protective properties are certainly worth your dime.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Brush or Spray
Drying Time: N/A
Shelf Life: N/A
Rusfre’s Automotive Rubberized Material is an automotive undercoating, pure and simple. Although it does not offer anything new aside from the standard abrasion protection, rust and corrosion inhibition, peel, crack, and chip resistance, and noise reduction, it does deliver on all its promises.
The formula comes out as a viscous substance that semi-hardens into a protective layer. It can be applied using a roller, a paintbrush, or a spray. Although it sticks very well, application can be a bit messy. Not to mention, due to its thickness, it takes a while to dry.
Also, using this product is not a one-step process. Your undercarriage needs to be fully prepped before using this product, which means thorough cleaning and rust removal are required.
Pro-Tip
If you need to apply it to small nooks and crannies where thick liquid can’t go, you only have to dilute the product with an appropriate solvent like an enamel reducer or even mineral spirits.

Pros
Very strong, tough bond
Different application methods available
Reduces vehicle noise
Relatively cheap

Cons
Application can be messy
Takes some time to fully cure and dry

9. Best Restorative Undercoating Paint: Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection

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Why we like it: Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection is a multipurpose coating that can not only be used for your car’s undercarriage, but also to any metal surface that needs protecting from rust and corrosion.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Petroleum-Based
Method of Application: Brush or Roll
Drying Time: N/A
Shelf Life: N/A
Fluid Film has made a name for itself in the aircraft and aerospace industry as a maker of top-of-the-line lubricant and rust inhibitor products. Now, the brand’s bringing it over into the automotive market with this Rust & Corrosion Protection.
This product provides great value for money in terms of preventative coating for your vehicle’s undercarriage. It provides trustworthy protection against moisture and chemicals, and its thixotropic fluid formula makes sure it gets into the littlest corners of your undercarriage. Not only does it protect the metal from corrosion, but it can also salvage surface-level damage by digging into the metal itself and lifting out the rust over time.
However, do keep in mind that this undercoating doesn’t harden and will not protect against debris or abrasion. It is very gooey and may make a mess. It also has strong fumes that may take some getting used to. You may notice some white smoke during your first few drives after applying this, but rest assured that it’s not flammable enough to catch fire. The white smoke is merely caused by the fluid evaporating when it gets to the exhaust pipe.

Pros
Versatile use
Digs into the smallest spaces of the vehicle
Reliable rust and corrosion prevention
Salvages reasonably rust damaged metal

Cons
Doesn’t dry completely
Very strong fumes
No sound deadening
May produce white smoke at first

10. Most Stylish Yet Simple Undercoating Paint: Penray Rubberized Undercoat

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Why we like it: If you’re looking for something simple and a bit fancy at the same time, Penray’s Rubberized Undercoat is a great choice.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Type: Rubberized
Method of Application: Spray
Drying Time: 2 hours
Shelf Life: 5 years if unopened
Penray may not be as prominent as the other brands on this list, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t deserve a spot.
This rubberized undercoating will keep your undercarriage pristine over long periods, protecting it from rust, corrosion, moisture, dirt, and chemicals. It also has great sound deadening properties.
When it comes to aesthetics, it dries to a matte black finish that looks both buffed and classy. It doesn’t need a primer or a topcoat to do its job, but it’s completely paintable with no bleed through in case you want a splash of color. A spray extender comes with the product so you can easily reach narrow areas.
However, make sure to cover up your nose when using this product as it smells quite bad. You should also clean the undercarriage thoroughly before applying this, because while it’s typically adherent to surface material, it does have a hard time bonding to greasy surfaces. Lastly, although Penray markets it as a quick-drying formula, it still doesn’t dry as quickly as we would like.

Pros
Convenient application
Sound deadening properties
Dries to a matte finish and can be painted over
Doesn’t need much preparation

Cons
Requires multiple coatings for proper coverage
Hard to apply to greasy surfaces

The Ultimate Guide to Car Undercoating Paints

Undercoating your car is a complex job to undertake. You have to consider a lot of factors in order to protect your vehicle in the most efficient way possible. This section of our guide will provide an exhaustive source of all the important information you need to use and apply undercoating paints.
What Are Undercoating Paints?
Undercoating paints provide the most vulnerable part of your vehicle an added layer of protection against harmful elements that you may encounter every day, such as rocks, debris, salt, water, and other minerals that could negatively affect your car.
This kind of paint is typically applied to the car’s exterior, especially the undercarriage. It can also be applied to floorboards, suspension parts, frame, gas tank, pans, and wheel wells of your vehicle. If you’re buying a second-hand vehicle, you should always apply undercoating paint to prevent additional damage to its already fragile underbelly.
How Long Do Car Undercoating Paints Last?
How long your undercoating lasts depends on many factors, like what type of undercoating you used, how well you applied it, how you use your car, and even where you live. Generally, though, car undercoating lasts at least a full year.
If you often use your car on rough terrain or if you live near the ocean, where the chance of rust, corrosion, and chemical damage is greater, there’s a good chance you’ll have to apply undercoating at least once every six months.
Different Types of Undercoating Paints
There are several types of undercoating available in the market, such as water, petroleum, rubber, asphalt, and polyurethane-based paints. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses that you should consider before picking out which paint is best for you.
Here’s an explanation of each one in a nutshell.
Water-Based
Water-based undercoating paints are the most commonly used paints for DIY undercoating projects. Like other water-based products, they have a thin consistency and dry faster than other types of undercoating paint. They’re also generally sold in aerosol cans for easy application.
The biggest disadvantage of water-based paints is that they wear out faster than other types. This means you’ll need to redo the coating more often for maximum protection, which could be a problem for those who don’t like high-maintenance vehicles.
Wax or Paraffin-Based
Wax or paraffin-based undercoating paints are some of the cheapest options around. They never actually harden and instead seep into the nooks and crannies of your vehicle to protect it from most elements. They are also stronger than water-based paints and can withstand more abuse and exposure.
This type of paint can be either painted on or sprayed, making application quick and easy. However, they still wear off pretty fast, which means you still need to redo the coating at least once a year.
Oil or Petroleum-Based​​​​​
Petroleum-based undercoating is a step above both water and paraffin-based options, as it offers much wider and stronger protection. It can repel road salts, oils, and debris much better than most other types of undercoating paints. Also, petroleum-based compounds are known to be effective at preventing corrosion in vehicles.
However, they’re harder to find in the market, and some petroleum-based undercoating like the Fluid Film Rust & Corrosion Protection never really dries fully – something not everyone likes.
Rubberized
Rubberized formulas are the second-strongest undercoats available on the market. This type of substance is designed specifically for rugged terrains and can withstand stronger exposure and abuse than any other formulas mentioned. They also offer additional features like sound deadening and resistance to dents.
These formulas are very easy to apply and can be painted on or applied as an aerosol spray. They can even be painted over in case you make a mistake and can be removed easily with any undercoating paint remover.
Polyurethane
Polyurethane is one of the most expensive undercoating options out there. It is self-sealing, which means it will seep into the smallest corners and cracks, sealing the surface where it’s applied and pushing out all the salt, sand, dirt, and moisture in the process. Due to this, it’s a great option if you want complete protection for not only your car’s underbelly but also its exterior in general.
This type of undercoating can be purchased in pails or canisters for coating guns. Keep in mind that you have to spend extra time prepping your car’s surface before you apply polyurethane. This includes doing tasks such as degreasing, sanding, and applying an etching primer to metal parts.
Asphalt-Based
Asphalt-based undercoating is designed for military all-terrain vehicles that often see rugged use. It contains some rubber material in it that can help in sound deadening as well.
Compared to other types of undercoating, asphalt-based undercoating is the strongest and the most long-lasting. It does have three downsides worth considering, however. First of all, it’s the most expensive undercoating option in the market right now. It’s also not paintable, which means it can only be used for your car’s underbelly. Lastly, asphalt-based undercoating takes the longest time to fully cure.
Benefits of Undercoating
Not everyone takes the time and effort to undercoat their car. Not that it’s a surprise, considering how many people see undercoating as an expensive waste of time. However, the benefits that come with undercoating can’t be denied.
Here are some of the most significant benefits of undercoating your car.
Provides Additional Protection
Daily wear and tear, when left unattended, can eventually result in irreparable damage to your car. Every time you take out your car for a spin, it accumulates dust, grime, and salt. It also gets exposed to moisture, chemicals, and oxidation. This can lead to rust and mold, two of your car’s biggest enemies.
A good undercoating can prevent all that from happening. It can even protect your car from physical damages like chinks, dents, or scratches. And since all the important parts are covered and water-proofed by the coat, undercarriage cleaning becomes much easier and less risky.
Saves You Money in the Long Run
Anyone who has ever owned a car before will know that repairs are expensive – sometimes, unbelievably so. For instance, it’s not unusual to see repairs for structural damage amount to more than the value of your car.
Remember, the undercarriage is the part that is always exposed to rough terrains, harmful chemicals, and other debris present in the road and the environment. By providing a solid layer of protection to a vulnerable part of your vehicle, undercoating can save you money in the long run. You wouldn’t have to spend so much on repairs if there’s nothing to repair in the first place, right?
May Help Offset Insurance Costs
Insurance providers base their quote on how high-risk your car is. For example, second-hand cars cost a lot of money to insure because they’re more likely to need repairs. Reducing your risks by providing your vehicle more protection may qualify as a discount towards your premiums, especially in states that see high cases of corrosion in vehicles.
Makes Your Vehicle Run Quieter
Undercoating typically contains rubber, allowing the formula to seal the entire underbelly of your car completely. The rubber layer not only protects the surface of your undercarriage from damage but absorbs road noise, as well. The added noise suppression in your vehicle’s interior results in a quieter vehicle and a significantly better driving experience.
Undercoating vs. Rust Proofing
Although people often use the two terms interchangeably, rust proofing and undercoating are technically not the same.
Rust proofing usually refers to applying rust inhabitant on specific spots where rust will most likely form on your vehicle’s body. It usually involves using a thin substance to coat your car and prevent it from developing rust over time.
On the other hand, undercoating is applying a thick, durable, and protective layer of material to the underbelly of your vehicle. It’s meant to cover the floorboard, frame, and the wheel wells – places that are very susceptible to physical and chemical damage in the long run.
Pros and Cons of Undercoating
When you apply undercoating, you’re providing protection to your car’s underbelly against all kinds of damages, rather than just rust. In addition to that, undercoating can also reduce the noise that your car generates on the road, something that plain rust proofing can’t do.
However, undercoating is merely a preventative measure, which means it’s more advisable for newer cars. If your undercarriage has already begun to rust, you’ll have to completely remove all the rust first before you can apply undercoating. Depending on the condition of your vehicle, this can be extremely expensive.
Pros and Cons of Rust Proofing
Rust proofing is meant to lengthen your car’s lifespan as well, and for a typically cheaper price than undercoating. Unlike undercoating, you can still apply rust proofing to areas that have already begun to rust. Rusting is a chemical process, and like all chemical processes, it can always be delayed or stopped – if caught early.
However, rust proofing is becoming less and less popular with the arrival of newer, more rust-resistant materials that cars are made of. Galvanized steel, for example, greatly increases the resistance of car surfaces to rust, making rust proofing a costly redundancy. On the contrary, this doesn’t apply to undercoating, as undercoating protects your car from more than just rust.
Rust Proofing or Undercoating?
If you’re on a tight budget and can only choose one of the two, you should look first at the specific problem you want to solve.
For example, if owning a vehicle for you is all about keeping the exterior spotless and looking good, rust proofing is enough. However, if you’re more concerned about how your car will hold up over ten or so years, then undercoating is a better option.
However, if you have the means to avail both for your car, you don’t have to choose at all. Rust proofing and undercoating are not mutually exclusive – in fact, they complement each other pretty well. Getting both can give your beloved ride the best protection it needs and deserves.
Methods for Applying Undercoating Paints

Different types of undercoating may need different methods of application. Here’s a quick explanation about the two main methods used to apply car undercoating paints.
Brush or Roll
One way to apply undercoating paints is by using a paintbrush or a roller brush. Water-based, wax-based, paraffin-based, and rubberized undercoating typically use this method. It’s very straightforward even for beginners because you can easily control the brush, which means you can paint more than just your car’s undercarriage. The only downside is that it can take up a lot of your time.
Spray
This is the most widely practiced method for applying undercoating to vehicles. Spraying makes sure that the material will adhere properly to your vehicle’s underside to protect it from the elements. However, it can be quite difficult to get an even spread. It’s best to use this method on a new car the day you bring it home.
How To Apply Undercoating Paint
Undercoating your vehicle, although simple in theory, can be an arduous task. To help you out, here’s a step-by-step guide to applying undercoating paint to your car.
Materials
Scraper
Degreaser
Disc grinder and grinding pads
Sandpaper
Dry rag
Primer
Undercoating
Workshop safety goggles
Protective gloves
Steps
Thoroughly clean your vehicle’s undercarriage with a good degreaser. Make sure that no part is left uncleaned.
If there’s any rust present, grind it down with a disc grinder.
Sand down any rust that remains. There should be no rust present before you begin undercoating.
Once that’s done, it’s time to prime the clean undercarriage. If you’re using polyurethane undercoating, etching primer is needed for bare metal parts. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding.
Liberally apply undercoating to the undercarriage of your vehicle. Cover all of the exposed parts such as the wheel wells, the frame, the floorboards. Let this first coat dry for at least an hour.
Once the first coat has dried, apply your second coating of undercoat.
Let the undercoating dry for 24 hours at a minimum before you use your vehicle.
If you want to remove undercoating from your car, apply the appropriate paint remover product for the type of undercoat you want to remove. This includes solvents, aircraft strippers, or paint strippers. You can also use a heat gun to soften the undercoating first.
Once the undercoating has already softened, use a scraper to scrape off the undercoating paint, taking care not to damage your vehicle.
What’s the Best Method for Cleaning My Undercarriage?
The best method is to get a professional car wash service to clean your vehicle’s undercarriage thoroughly. However, if you prefer–or don’t mind–doing it yourself, power washers are the best way to get all the dirt and grime off your car. If you don’t have a power washer, a regular garden hose is the next best option.
That said, keep in mind that you’ll have to check more thoroughly if you’re using a garden hose since the pressure may not be strong enough to remove dirt that has already hardened over time.
Also, both power washers and garden hoses aren’t the be all and end all of the undercarriage cleaning. You still have to apply a degreaser and then grind down any instances of rust before applying the undercoat.
Should I Remove My Wheels When Applying Undercoating?
Yes, you should. It may seem like a chore, but you should always remove the wheels of your car before you apply undercoating, especially when using spraying methods. Undercoating is a substance that hardens over time, so if you get it on your wheels, it will form a lump that may throw off your vehicle’s balance while driving.
Once again, always remove all removable parts of your car before undercoating to ensure that the whole process goes smoothly. It’s better to be safe than sorry, after all.
Tips For Undercoating Your Car
Here are some additional tips that you should keep in mind before you undercoat your car.
Never apply undercoating to a dirty undercarriage. Once your car has been undercoated, you won’t be able to clean the surface underneath it anymore. Any dirt, mildew, or rust trapped there will slowly corrode your car’s undercarriage.
It can be a real pain to clean the mud, dirt, and dust from the underside of your car. To easily rid the undercarriage of road gunk, use a pressurized washer. Once it dries, you can proceed to grinding and sanding down rust, if any. You can also use a rust remover to make sure that no rust remains.
Most undercoating products will never stick to greased surfaces, no matter how long you dry it out. Always use a degreaser to completely remove grease from your car’s surface.
If you’re using an aerosol spray, do a trial spray first to see the can’s fan pattern. Spray up and down if the paint comes out in a narrow stream, but if it comes out tall and fan-like, spray side to side.
Always use safety goggles and a sturdy mask when undercoating. During the process, you’re going to be exposed to a lot of harsh chemical fumes, so it’s best to protect yourself.
Final Words
This list showed you the best undercoating paints that you can get on the market right now. All of them are great options–some more suitable for your situation than others.
Regardless of what you pick though, undercoating is a great way to protect your car from daily wear and tear, prevent rust and corrosion, and prolong its lifespan. Not only does it save you money in the long run, but it also saves your car from otherwise preventable damages. More

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or an off-road junkie, having a good winch is essential for getting unstuck. But what good is a high-quality winch without a decent rope?
The last thing you want is for your winch rope to snap on you. It’ll leave you in a sticky situation or with mud on your face, sometimes quite literally. Having a durable and dependable winch rope is crucial, and these days everybody chooses synthetic winch ropes due to their many advantages.
In this article, we’ll be looking at everything you need to know about synthetic winch ropes, such as the key things to look out for, how to choose a winch rope to match your needs, and our reviews of the nine best synthetic ropes available today.

Major Factors to Consider in a Synthetic Winch Rope
While there are many additional factors to consider in a synthetic winch rope, four major things stand out. These critical factors will determine whether the winch rope is suitable for your specific use case and requirements. Below are the four major factors to
consider in a synthetic winch rope, but first, let’s take a look at what exactly a synthetic winch rope is.
What Is Synthetic Winch Rope?
Synthetic winch ropes first appeared in the 1990s as an alternative to traditional steel cables. While steel cables are both strong and reliable, they have several drawbacks, which we’ll look at in more detail in our full comparison of synthetic vs. steel section.
As the name suggests, synthetic winch ropes are made from synthetic fibers, typically a multi-braided high molecular polyethylene. This material makes them strong, durable, and light, which is why they’ve become a popular choice for using with winches.
Strength
The tensile strength, also known as the breaking strength, is the number one factor to consider as it’ll determine how much weight you can move. The breaking strength is the maximum capacity at which the rope will break, so it must be higher than the load you’re moving to avoid it snapping.
Make sure there’s some wiggle room when it comes to the strength of the rope. Don’t assume a 6,000-pound rope will move 6,000 pounds without snapping; choose a 6,500+ pound rope to be on the safe side. Always go slightly higher than the load you’re moving.
Thickness
The rope’s thickness (or diameter) ties in with its breaking strength, as a thicker rope is typically stronger than a thinner one. However, that’s not always the case, as seen with this
6,000-pound, 3/16-inch rope. Another thing to think about when it comes to thickness is that a thicker rope will take up more space on a winch drum, especially if it’s long.
Length
Synthetic winch ropes come in various lengths, ranging from 50 feet to 100 feet. The right length for you will depend on your typical winching distance. Make sure you have enough rope for the job, plus a little extra for room to work. Shorter ropes tend to have a lower breaking strength than longer ones, which is worth bearing in mind if you’re working with heavy vehicles.
Durability
If you’re going to use your winch frequently, you’ll need a durable winch rope. How durable a winch rope is can be boiled down to what protective features it has—for example, UV protection and abrasion resistance.
Price also plays a role here as the more expensive synthetic winch ropes tend to be of better quality and more durable. If you’re only moving a light weight, and doing so infrequently, then a cheaper, less durable option like the Ucreative Synthetic Winch Rope will do the trick.
While these factors in mind, here are the best synthetic winch ropes available today.

Top 9 Best Synthetic Winch Ropes 2021
1. Best Overall Synthetic Winch Rope: YaeKoo Synthetic Winch Rope Kit

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Why we like it: This YaeKoo synthetic winch rope kit is not only super strong, but it also has great aesthetics. It comes with both a hook and a fairlead, so you can be up and running in no time.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 92 ft
Thickness: 1/2-inch
Strength: 22,000 lbs
This synthetic winch rope from YaeKoo is our best overall pick for several reasons. It comes as a full kit, including an aluminum hawse fairlead and a hook, so you can get it installed and ready to use quickly. You will need to provide your own 10-inch bolts, though, as for some reason this kit doesn’t come with them.
It has a sleek red and black design that’s made from high-quality materials. If red isn’t your color, then there is an option to choose a black fairlead. However, the rope doesn’t come in different colors, so black is the only option. If you’re not keen on black, you may want to look at this X-BULL Dyneema Rope as it comes in multiple colors.
The rope itself is very well made with impressive breaking strength and an excellent length. It’s one of the thicker ropes on our list, but that’s why it’s so strong. Due to its thickness, the rope won’t kink or split easily, and the nylon sheath protects the fibers from abrasion on sharp surfaces, such as rocks. There’s also a 3-meter long red protective sleeve at the other end to protect against excessive drum heat.
Overall, this is an excellent choice to suit most vehicles, including ATVs and UTVs. It is on the more expensive side, so if you’re after a more budget-friendly option with a similar breaking strength, check out this offering from Off Road Boar.

Pros
Includes high-quality hook and aluminum hawse fairlead
Long rope with excellent strength
Sleek and stylish design
Highly durable due to protective sleeves
Fits most vehicles and winches

Cons
Doesn’t come with fairlead bolts

2. Best Premium Synthetic Winch Rope: Offroading Gear Synthetic Winch Rope Kit

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Why we like it: This synthetic winch rope kit has a premium feel and includes a heavy-duty hook and rubber stopper as standard.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 95 ft
Thickness: 3/8-inch
Strength: 18,500 lbs
While this winch rope kit from Offroading Gear is the most expensive on our list, it is undoubtedly the most premium option. Everything about it screams high quality, from the rope itself to the small bag and box it comes in. We felt that was a nice touch, as many other ropes just come in a plain plastic bag.
The kit includes a heavy-duty galvanized snap hook and a rubber stopper, but no fairlead. That shouldn’t be an issue as it universally fits most winches, including ARB, Power Winch, and SmittyBilt, on all types of vehicles. It’s easy enough to install as it has a steel terminal end for bolting to the winch drum. If you don’t need that to install it, then it can be removed without any issues.
The rope itself is made from light and super tough UHMWPE, making it a good choice for heavy winching. This material is also easy to handle without hurting yourself, unlike some materials out there.
There is an option to choose a different length and thickness of the rope, but that will affect the breaking strength. The downside we see with this rope is that it comes in a gray color, which isn’t going to be very visible in the dark or when it’s covered in dirt.

Pros
Made from light and robust UHMWPE
Premium quality look and feel
Includes galvanized snap hook and stopper
Steel terminal end makes it easy to install
Universal fit for all types of vehicles and winches

Cons
Gray color isn’t highly visible in the dark

3. Best Budget Synthetic Winch Rope: Ucreative Synthetic Winch Rope

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Why we like it: This product from Ucreative is cheap and it gets the job done. It’s an excellent option for those who need a good quality winch rope on a tight budget.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 50 ft
Thickness: 1/4-inch
Strength: 7,700 lbs
This is the cheapest synthetic winch rope on our list, but that doesn’t mean it’s the weakest. Despite being cheap, it’s made from a heavy-duty synthetic fiber that has adequate UV protection and chemical resistance, in addition to providing minimal stretch and non-rotation. It’s also very light, which helps it float on water with no issue. It’s easy to handle and can be spliced as it’s hollow inside.
You have a choice of three colors: blue, gray, and yellow. We like blue as it stands out and is easy to see in low light conditions. The 0.8-inch solid metal loop is sturdy and will work with any type of hook. The 5-foot long protective sleeve protects the rope from abrasive surfaces, such as sharp rocks or rough terrain.
If you have a traditional roller fairlead on your vehicle, you’ll need to buy a new hawse fairlead. This rope will snap if used with a traditional fairlead and must only be used with a hawse fairlead.
This is a durable and well made synthetic winch rope, and considering the price, it’ll be a favorite for many. If you can spend a little extra, we’d suggest buying something like the YaeKoo Synthetic Winch Rope Kit as it has a better breaking strength and includes additional accessories.

Pros
Excellent value for money
Three colors to choose from
Protection against UV and chemicals

Cons
Snaps if used with a traditional fairlead
Not the highest quality material

4. Longest Winch Rope: X-BULL SK75 Dyneema Synthetic Winch Rope

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Why we like it: This 100-foot rope from X-BULL is highly visible and easy to use with an excellent breaking strength thanks to its braided Dyneema construction.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 100 ft
Thickness: 3/8-inch
Strength: 23,809 lbs
This is the longest winch rope on our list at 100 feet long. It’s made from the ultra-strong but lightweight Dyneema. It’s moisture resistant and can float on water, making it an excellent choice for use in wet conditions. It can also be used in temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius without any issues, and you can use it in sunlight without it degrading thanks to its high level of UV protection.
There are three colors to choose from, including orange, blue, and gray. The orange is highly visible, which is useful in the dark. However, if it gets wet or is handled too much, the coloring does come off. This doesn’t affect its strength or usability, but it can make a bit of a mess. If you need to splice the rope, that isn’t an issue as there are no sharp frays.
This synthetic winch rope has a solid loop at one end for connecting your hook and a crimped bolt hole at the other end for bolting to a winch drum. While this product does come with a hook, it’s not the best quality, so you may want to purchase another hook. Alternatively, you can buy a kit that has a higher quality hook included.
Overall, it’s a very well made winch rope constructed using high-quality materials. For moving heavy loads, this winch rope is ideal.

Pros
Very long and high strength
Made from durable Dyneema
Multiple colors to choose from
Includes a hook as standard
Easy to install to the winch drum

Cons
Coloring does come off when handled
The included hook isn’t high quality

5. Strongest Winch Rope: Off Road Boar Synthetic Winch Rope

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Why we like it: This winch rope has the highest breaking strength of any rope on our list, making it a good choice for heavy-duty winching.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 92 ft
Thickness: 3/8-inch
Strength: 25,000 lbs
This is the strongest synthetic winch rope on our list, with an impressive 25,000 pounds of breaking strength. It’s perfect for winching heavy vehicles, including large trucks and ATVs, plus everything in between. It’s made from a high molecular polyurethane material, which means it’s durable and very good looking when attached to your vehicle. It also includes an excellently made claw hook that uses a spring-loaded latch for ease of use.
At one end, there’s a red jacket to protect the rope from drum heat and abrasion, while at the other end, there’s a protective sleeve that guards against rough surfaces and wear. The rope itself is UV and corrosion resistant, so it’ll stand up in any harsh environment. You can easily splice this winch rope should you need to.
The Off Road Boar will fit most winches, including AC-DK winches, ARB, SmittyBilt, Warn, and many more. While this is a super strong and well-made winch rope, the eyelet leaves much to be desired. It’s the weak point of this winch and may break easily if not correctly installed.

Pros
Outstanding breaking strength
Includes a high-quality claw hook
Protected against heat, UV, and wear
Fits all types of winches

Cons
Mounting eyelet is a weak point

6. Easiest Installation: FieryRed Synthetic Winch Rope

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Why we like it: This winch rope is easy to install and is made from heat-treated Dyneema, giving it excellent heat and wear resistance.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 50 ft
Thickness: 3/16-inch
Strength: 8,200 lbs
The FieryRed synthetic winch rope comes in both black and orange. It’s made from heat-treated Dyneema, providing a good amount of tensile strength and durability. The UV stable fibers have been treated with high-temperature urethane, giving it excellent protection against high temperatures, excessive wear, and abrasion on rough surfaces.
It’s effortless to install, perhaps the easiest of all these winches, as it features a self-tightening rope that holds it secure on the winch drum. The loop eye is of high quality, having scratch-proof, rust-proof, and corrosion-resistant qualities. It also has a thick chemical and UV resistant nylon sleeve protecting the rope from sun damage and the elements.
There is no eyelet at the end of this rope; it’s just a taped end that fits into the drum’s hole. This isn’t a significant problem as a knot can be tied at the end and screwed in, but most products have an eyelet that makes it easier to attach to the drum.

Pros
Dyneema has been heat-treated for increased durability
Enhanced heat and wear protection
Self-tightening rope makes it easy to install
Loop eye is rust-proof and scratch-proof

Cons
Doesn’t have an eyelet for attaching to the drum

7. Ranger Ultranger SY45 UHMWPE Synthetic Winch Rope

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Why we like it: The Ultranger by Ranger is made from high-quality materials and includes a well-made shackle.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 50 ft
Thickness: 1/4-inch
Strength: 7,500 lbs
The Ultranger synthetic winch rope is made from pre-stretched and heat-treated UHMWPE, making it strong and durable. It’s not the most robust synthetic winch rope out there, but it’s strong enough for use with ATVs and UTVs.
It features a double protective sleeve on the pull end to protect against chafing, wear, and excessive heat. It also has a protective sleeve on the drum end to protect against high drum temperatures and abrasion. The rope doesn’t kink and floats easily enough in water due to how light it is.
The stainless steel thimble offers better eye protection than some of the other ropes, and it includes a decent quality shackle. Considering the price and quality of this winch rope, it offers tremendous value for money.
The only downside to this rope is that it’s pretty tough, making it difficult to cut and splice. If you think you’ll need to splice it, we’d recommend the budget Ucreative Synthetic Winch Rope as it’s a lot easier to splice.

Pros
Double sleeved protection
High-quality stainless-steel thimble
Includes a good shackle
Excellent price considering the quality

Cons
Not easy to cut or splice

8. Thinnest Winch Rope: Extreme Max “The Devil’s Hair”

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Why we like it: The Devil’s Hair is made from SynSteel, giving it a good amount of strength while remaining light and thin.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 50 ft
Thickness: 3/16-inch
Strength: 6,000 lbs
We love what Extreme Max has called this product: The Devil’s Hair. It’s a fitting name, considering the strength of this rope in relation to its thickness. At just 3/16-inches thick, it’s the thinnest rope on our list. This is only possible due to it being made from the super light and tough SynSteel.
While it is a very durable rope, it isn’t designed for prolonged use in the sun as it has no UV protection. If you plan to use your winch rope in the sunlight for extended periods of time, pick something with great UV protection, like the FieryRed Synthetic Winch Rope. The Extreme Max does, however, have a protective sleeve to protect it from abrasion.
There are many different colors to choose from, so you can choose what looks best on your vehicle. It also fits all standard ATV and UTV winches, so there should be no issues when it comes to installing the rope to your winch.

Pros
Made from tough SynSteel
Super thin at 3/16-inch
Seven different colors to choose from
Fits all standard ATV and UTV winches

Cons
No UV protection

9. Best Protective Sleeve: Auxmart Synthetic Winch Rope

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Why we like it: This rope has plenty of protection in the form of a Velcro sleeve and a protective synthetic jacket, making it durable and long-lasting.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Length: 95 ft
Thickness: 3/8-inch
Strength: 20,500 lbs
This winch rope from Auxmart comes with a 3/4-inch D-ring shackle that has a nice looking black powder coat finish. In addition to that, the electro-galvanized shackle provides extra protection and looks the part. The rope itself is made from Dyneema, resulting in an impressive amount of strength.
Most synthetic winch ropes come with a sleeve for protection, and while this one does have one, it’s a little different from the rest. The sleeve is very thick and uses Velcro, making it easy to remove and giving it a tremendous amount of protection for the rope. There’s also an additional protective synthetic jacket to provide extra protection. On the drum side, the rope is colored red, which can be used as an indicator for when you should stop unspooling.
Unfortunately there’s no hook included, and despite the high breaking strength, we’re not entirely convinced of its capabilities. Considering the price, we’d go with our overall pick as we feel it’s a better quality product at a similar price point.

Pros
Great looking winch rope
Electro-galvanized shackle included
Velcro sleeve for extra protection

Cons
No hook included
Not the best quality rope out there

Everything You Need to Know About Synthetic Winch Ropes

If you’re still unsure about synthetic winch ropes, this section explores everything you need to know in a lot more detail.
Synthetic Winch Ropes vs. Steel Winch Cables
As briefly mentioned at the beginning of this guide, there are two main types of winch ropes: synthetic ropes and steel cables. Both have their pros and cons, which we’ll dive into now.
Safety
Synthetic winch ropes are, without a doubt, much safer than steel cables. If you’ve ever had a steel cable snap on you, you’ll know exactly what we mean.
Steel cables store up a lot of kinetic energy, which is incredibly dangerous when released through snapping. The heavy hook can easily find itself flying straight towards your windshield. You can imagine how scary that must be.
Synthetic winch ropes, on the other hand, don’t store up kinetic energy. If they snap, the rope will not recoil, and the hook will simply fall to the ground. Because of this, they’re a lot safer to use, and they’re certainly worth investing in.
Strength
These days, synthetic winch ropes are just as strong as their steel counterparts. In fact, some high-quality synthetic ropes have a higher breaking strength than steel cables. For example, the Off Road Boar has a breaking strength of 25,000 pounds, whereas a typical steel cable has a breaking strength of just 15,000 pounds.
If you choose a steel cable over a synthetic rope, we recommend choosing one with a much higher breaking strength. As we’ve seen, the consequences of a steel cable snapping are much worse than a synthetic rope breaking.
Weight
Synthetic winch ropes are the undisputed winners when it comes to weight. As they’re made from synthetic fibers, they’re incredibly lightweight, typically weighing between 0.5 and 5 pounds. Steel cables weigh a lot more, typically between 15 and 30 pounds. That’s a pretty big difference. Lighter ropes are also better for using in the water as most will float.
Durability
When it comes to synthetic winch ropes, the biggest problem with durability is that the fibers can wear down quickly. This is caused by the rope chafing or rubbing against rough surfaces like sharp rocks or hardened mud. Protective sleeves help mitigate this issue to a degree, and you’ll find them included with most synthetic winch ropes, including the double protected Ultranger.
Steel cables don’t have this issue, but they do have their own problems to contend with. As they’re made from metal, they can rust or corrode over time when exposed to the elements. This isn’t an issue with synthetic ropes, and if they’re looked after properly, they’ll be more durable in most situations.
Price
Steel cables are typically a little cheaper than synthetic winch ropes. However, the price gap has been narrowing for years. A typical cable will cost around 20 bucks if it’s short, all the way up to 100 bucks for a longer one. You can find synthetic winch ropes for the same price; for example, the budget Ucreative sits at the lower end of the price range.
Higher quality synthetic ropes, such as the super-strong Off Road Boar will cost a bit more, and the premium ropes will be significantly more expensive.
Choosing the Right Synthetic Winch Rope for Your Needs
If you’re unsure which synthetic rope will be best for your needs, these three questions may help you decide.
What Will You Be Using the Synthetic Winch Rope For?
Are you going to be pulling a heavy vehicle, like a truck, or a lighter vehicle, like an ATV? What you’re moving will determine the breaking strength the winch rope needs to be.
If you’re pulling something heavy, you’ll need a rope like the X-BULL Synthetic Rope with a high breaking strength. However, if you’re only doing light work, a cheaper and lower strength rope will be more than enough.
Also, if you’re looking for something to pull your vehicle over a longer distance, a winch rope probably isn’t the best choice for you. Instead, you should take a look at the best tow straps available.
What Conditions Will You Be Using the Synthetic Winch Rope In?
If you’re going to be using the rope in the wet, make sure the material is waterproof and that it floats on water. This winch rope is moisture resistant, so it’d be an excellent choice for use in wet environments. If you’re using it in cold temperatures, be sure to pick one that can withstand cold sub-zero Celsius climates.
If you’re using the rope in the sunlight for long periods or storing it uncovered, you’ll need a synthetic winch rope with UV protection. Ropes without UV protection will degrade over time if left exposed to sunlight.
How Often Will You Be Using the Synthetic Winch Rope?
Finally, will you be using the rope regularly or just once in a while? If you use your winch every week, you’ll be better off paying a little extra for a higher quality rope. It’ll work out cheaper in the long run to buy a more expensive, higher-quality rope, as it’ll last much longer than a cheap one when used frequently.
If you don’t use your winch very often, you’ll be able to get away with a cheaper, lower quality rope. That may be the best option if you want to save some cash.
Additional Things to Consider in a Synthetic Winch Rope
At the beginning of this guide, we looked at the major factors to consider in a synthetic winch rope. Those factors are crucial to get right, as they’ll determine what your rope is suitable for.
There are some additional, less pressing considerations to think about, which we’ve listed below.
Installation
Some synthetic winch ropes are easier to install than others. This will depend on the type of winch you have and what the rope has at the end of it. Some ropes come with a crimped eye so it can be easily bolted to a winch drum. Some have eyelets, and others have nothing at all. In addition to that, you may need to install a new fairlead as some ropes are only suitable for use with a hawse fairlead.
You may have installed a winch rope before, so you already know the drill. If you haven’t done it before, take a look at this video of a guy swapping his cable for synthetic rope to get a feel for the process.
Color
The color of the rope is subjective; beauty is in the eye of the beholder and all that. You’ll want something that looks nice on your vehicle. The Auxmart Synthetic Winch Rope has a great finish and looks fantastic on any vehicle, however the black color doesn’t stand out too much in the dark. The color of your winch rope has a practical use as well, as a bright rope is easier to see in low light conditions.
Warranty
Be sure to check whether the manufacturer provides any type of warranty with the rope. While the rope should handle whatever you throw at it, provided you’re using it correctly, defective products from the factory do occur. A good manufacturer will honor a replacement or a refund if the rope snaps through no fault of your own.
Material
Synthetic winch ropes are made from synthetic material, and there are a few different types, each with different properties. A very popular type is Dyneema.
Others will use a mixture of different materials, such as wire, polyurethane, and nylon, among others. One way to determine whether the material is good is to look at the breaking strength, which is noted in all of our reviews.
Protective Features
Heat and abrasion are the two main ways in which synthetic ropes get damaged. Ensuring the winch rope has protection against excessive heat and abrasion is crucial if you’re using it for long periods of time or in rough conditions. Most ropes will have a protective sleeve to protect against rocks, and many have another protective layer at the drum end to protect against heat.
Weatherproofing
Most ropes will have UV protection and chemical resistance to ensure they don’t break down if exposed to sunlight or chemicals. It’s also worth checking whether they have moisture resistance too, especially if you’re using the winch rope in the water.
Be sure to check if the rope can be used in cold temperatures if you’re in a cold environment. Some synthetic ropes work in temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius.
Accessories
Some products only supply the winch rope, meaning you’ll need to have your own hook and rubber stopper. Others come as full kits and include everything you need to get up and running. One such example is the YaeKoo Winch Rope Kit, which includes a high-quality hook.
While this isn’t going to make or break a product, it’s worth remembering that you may need to spend extra money if you don’t already have a hook. It’s also good to check out the quality of the hook that’s included, as some of them aren’t the best quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions when it comes to synthetic winch ropes.
Q: Can a Roller Fairlead Be Used With a Synthetic Rope?
A: In some cases, they can be; however, most synthetic ropes will wear and break down if used with a roller fairlead. Instead, synthetic ropes are best used with a hawse type fairlead.
Q: Is a Synthetic Winch Rope Better Than a Metal Cable?
A: In many aspects, yes. Synthetic ropes are lighter, easier to handle, and just as strong, if not stronger, than cable. Take a look at our full section on synthetic ropes vs. steel cables where we look at the pros and cons in more detail.
Q: How Long Do Synthetic Ropes Last?
A: This depends on how often you use it and how much stress you put it through. Assuming you look after the synthetic winch rope, it should last for up to 10 years before needing to be replaced.
Q: Do Synthetic Winch Ropes Require Any Maintenance?
A: Synthetic ropes can be kept in good working order by regularly cleaning them with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse and wash the rope thoroughly, then dislodge any dirt or debris stuck in the braids. Always make sure to dry the rope after cleaning, and use a winch cover when storing for long periods to limit UV exposure.
Q: How Do You Install a Winch Rope?
A: Installation will vary depending on your specific winch and the rope in question. Firstly, you’ll need to remove your old rope so that the winch is ready for the new one. Most winch cables have a small eyelet at the end, which is bolted to the winch drum. Once it’s connected, make sure the winch rope is tightly wound to the winch drum.
Take your time with this, as you don’t want any slack. If it’s not tight enough, the rope can skip, which causes it to fray prematurely.
Final Thoughts
As we’ve seen, synthetic materials are the way forward when it comes to winch ropes. They have many advantages over their steel cable counterparts, making them an attractive choice for most people.
Considering their durability, strength, and reasonable price point, synthetic winch ropes are worth the investment as they will help you out of sticky situations for many years to come.
There are plenty of different ropes on the market, each with something unique for every situation. Regardless of whether you’re pulling an ATV out of a ditch or a truck through the mud, there’s a suitable synthetic winch rope for everybody. More

Have you ever regretted accepting a ride from someone the second you stepped into their car because it smelled like a mixture of yesterday’s pizza pickup and a sweaty soccer kit? Most of us have been there, done that, and bought the T-shirt. But what about when that car is your car?
That’s when it’s time to take some serious action. News flash: standard air fresheners don’t work! They can actually make the problem worse since they add chemicals to the weird smell mixture in the air. Not to mention the possible side effects, like headaches.
Instead, opt for a car essential oil diffuser. These nifty little things shun the chemicals and fill your car with lovely scents that are also antibacterial, antiseptic, and antifungal – doing their part to get to the root of the problem.
Wondering where you can find one? You’re in the right place.

Features to Look for in Car Essential Oil Diffusers
All essential oil diffusers have the same end goal, but they use different means to reach it. Here’s how to tell them apart.
Design
Choosing the right design for your car essential oil diffuser isn’t just about what looks the most aesthetically pleasing (though that’s important too). You also have to think about what’s most practical.
Where will you store it? Some diffusers are shaped to slot into your car’s cupholders, while others are tiny enough to hang up or put anywhere.
If you’re particularly short on space, you could also consider a vent clip, a simple accessory that you can slide into your car’s air vent. However, vent clips produce a weaker scent than electric diffusers.
Waterless
The most common type of essential oil diffuser, the ultrasonic diffuser, relies on water to work – you pour a little water into the tank and mix in a few drops of essential oils. But this can be inconvenient and fiddly, especially if you don’t have water to hand.
An alternative is waterless diffusers (or nebulizing diffusers), which you add essential oils to directly. This is more convenient and produces a stronger scent.
Vent clips also don’t require water.
Mist Settings
The majority of car oil diffusers on the market offer two or three mist settings to choose between, which affect how quickly a diffuser emits the essential oil. Intermittent and continuous are the two most common settings.
Light Settings
Similarly, many diffusers offer various colors to alternate between. Some people like this feature since it means their diffuser doubles as a light during night drives – but others find it distracting.
Power Type
Regular essential oil diffusers must be plugged in at a regular plug socket, but car essential oil diffusers work differently. You can plug some into cigarette lighters or USB ports, and others are rechargeable, meaning you don’t need to keep them plugged in constantly.
Material
Most essential oil diffusers are plastic. This is the most affordable option, but some people prefer to avoid them – mixing essential oils with plastic reduces their soothing properties. However, choosing a BPA-free or noncorrosive plastic is a good way to get around this problem.
Run Time
Diffusers can’t emit essential oils forever. They always run out of liquid, usually within two to eight hours.
Of course, even when the diffuser stops, all you need to do is top it up –a shorter run time might be slightly less convenient, but it’s not the end of the world.
Automatic Shutoff
Leaving a diffuser switched on when it’s run out of liquid is wasteful and could even be a fire hazard – but it’s not easy to stop and turn it off when you’re driving. Thankfully, many diffusers shut down automatically, giving you a little peace of mind.
Now you know the basics, it’s time to skip to the good stuff: the top car essential oil diffusers on the market. The ten options below will be sure not to leave you disappointed.

Top 10 Best Car Essential Oil Diffusers 2021
1. Best Overall Car Diffuser: InnoGear Ultrasonic Car Diffuser

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Why we like it: If you want a snazzy but sleek car diffuser with all the settings you could want and more, look no further. This InnoGear diffuser will tick all your boxes!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: Six hours
Waterless: No
Material: Polypropylene (PP)
Auto shutoff: Yes
This light, portable device can be whatever you want it to be – a vaporizer, a night lamp, a humidifier, and of course, a diffuser. It fulfills all these roles beautifully and makes a trusty companion for many future journeys.
The high-quality PP material used is BPA-free, ensuring it’s safe for everyone – including babies. It’s also whisper-quiet, so you won’t need to turn the radio up to drown out its noise.
Special Settings
With seven color settings, you can drive while basking in the glow of your favorite color. It’s great for using as a night light on those dark evening drives.
You can also choose between two modes for diffusing the oils: intermittent or continuous. The first option lasts around six hours, while the second lasts for two hours.
Design
This diffuser might look like a regular black design, but when you switch it on, you’ll see that it’s much more. The clear panel at the front is actually an LED and lights up in multiple colors as soon as you turn it on.
It’s designed to be perfect for cars. All the buttons are on top of the diffuser, so you won’t need to perform some dangerous gymnastics to control it while driving.
One drawback of the design is that it’s quite large – if your car has smaller cup holders, it might just tip over or fall off.

Pros
Different light and diffusion settings
Shuts off automatically
Stylish design
BPA-free

Cons
Could be too large for some cars

2. Best Premium Car Diffuser: Minidiva Professional Grade Diffuser

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Why we like it: If you’re looking for a premium diffuser that’s technologically advanced and optimized for health, this Minidiva diffuser will be a match made in heaven.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: Eight hours
Waterless: Yes
Material: BPA-free plastic
Auto shutoff: Yes
When we say premium, we mean premium – this diffuser is quite the splurge. But it’s also completely unlike any other item on the market.
The Minidiva diffuser is a nebulizing diffuser – it works without water. There’s some evidence this is more beneficial to health since it means you’re breathing in a purer aroma.
As if that wasn’t fancy enough, it also utilizes atomizing technology, which means it gives off high-frequency vibrations that can atomize a wider variety of essential oils. Not just the usual suspects like tea tree oil, but also Vetiver and coconut oil.
Finally, it emits less than 38 dB of sound.
Can you see what you’re paying for now?
Special Settings
Unlike many of the other products on this list, the Minidiva diffuser doesn’t include a light – this could be a disappointment to some people. If having a light is important to you, try the InnoGear Ultrasonic Car Diffuser.
However, it does offer three settings for mist: low, medium, and high. You might prefer a lower setting since waterless diffusers emit a much stronger scent.
Design
As noted already, this is a car diffuser with a completely different design to anything else on the market. Instead of being a cylindrical shape, it’s a curved rectangle with a hole in the middle that you insert your essential oil bottle into.
This has advantages and drawbacks. At five inches wide, just under six inches high, and under two inches wide, it’s a tiny and nifty device. However, it’s less obvious where exactly you can store it in your car since it won’t slot into your cupholder like other diffusers.

Pros
Waterless diffuser
Can use it with other types of oils
Very small and portable

Cons
Doesn’t have a light

3. Best Vent Clip Diffuser: ttstar Car Diffuser

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Why we like it: Keeping your car smelling good has never been easier. No need to remember to charge a diffuser – just slot this cute vent clip into your ventilation system.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts
Charging type: Not applicable
Run time: Not applicable
Waterless: Yes
Material: Alloy
Auto shutoff: Not applicable
Technically, the ttsar Car Diffuser is waterless – but as a vent clip, it works in a different way to electric diffusers. Just open the vent clip up, put a few drops of essential oils onto the refill pad, fasten it up, and stick it on your vent. It really is that simple!
One of the best things about these vent clips is that you’ll get three of them – one for each air vent in your car. This pack also comes with 36 refill pads.
However, although a pack of 36 sounds like a lot, you could get through them quickly. Whereas rechargeable diffusers are a one-time purchase, vent clips involve more consistent expense.
Special Settings
Unlike electric diffusers, you can’t control the intensity of the smell – the overall result is a weaker aroma that might not be strong enough for some people. There’s also no light.
Design
Vent clips look similar to a compact mirror on a clip – but they’re even smaller! The circular clip has a diameter of just over one inch, and the clip part you stick into your air vent is also around an inch long.
The high-quality alloy used to make the main part of the clip gives a classy touch. As a bonus, each vent clip has a lovely, floral design on the front. The reusable refill pads also come in various colors, so they’ll be sure to give your car a funky twist!

Pros
Come in a pack of three
Comes with various refill packs
Nice design
Don’t need to charge it

Cons
Scent is weaker than an electric diffuser
Will eventually need to buy more pads

4. Best Portable Car Diffuser: Weljoy Wood Grain Diffuser

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Why we like it: If it’s convenience and portability you’re after, this wood grain diffuser is bound to float your boat (or drive your car). It’s cute and neat yet effective!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: Battery or USB
Run time: 5.5 hours
Waterless: Yes
Material: Polypropylene (PP)
Auto shutoff: No
There’s portable, and there’s portable – at just five inches wide and four inches high, this car diffuser is definitely portable. Fit it into the palm of your hand or any crevice in your car; the choice is yours.
It also comes with a cord, so you can hang it from your mirrors like a traditional chemical air freshener.
It’s a waterless diffuser, but unlike some other options, it won’t break the bank. It also comes with eight refill pads.
However, there is one big caveat: there’s no automatic shutoff.
Special Settings
You can choose between three different diffusion modes: Level 1 (lasts for 5.5 hours), Level 2 (lasts for 2.5 hours), and Level 3 (lasts for 1.5 hours) – the one you choose depends on the intensity level you’re after.
Sadly, it doesn’t last as long as other diffusers, even on the least intensive level – that might be something to do with the tiny size. If that’s a dealbreaker, consider a more long-lasting option, like the LEASTYLE essential oil diffuser.
Design
As discussed, this diffuser is tiny, and it’s also pretty cute – the wood grain finish gives it a somewhat quaint and vintage feel.
However, bear in mind that it’s not actually made of wood – it’s plastic. Still, the materials are reasonably high quality, with medical-grade and BPA-free plastic.

Pros
Very small and portable
Waterless
Comes with refill pads

Cons
Doesn’t last as long as other options
No automatic shutoff

5. Best Budget Car Diffuser: TOPLANET Car Diffuser

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Why we like it: The TOPLANET car diffuser has all the settings and features you could want but none of the expenses you might expect. Snap it up before they change their mind!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: Eight hours
Waterless: No
Material: Plastic
Auto shutoff: Yes
Plug the TOPLANET car diffuser into your USB plug, and you’ll be ready to rumble. It has a 300ml water capacity, doubles as a humidifier, and automatically shuts down when it runs out of water to avoid dry burning.
Plus, it won’t cramp your style by being too noisy. The gadget operates at under 36 decibels – for some context, that’s a similar noise level to a library.
Unfortunately, some customers have complained that their diffusers broke within a few weeks or months, so that’s something to be aware of.
If you’re not willing to take this risk and want a more high-quality option that’s less likely to break, consider the InnoGear Ultrasonic Car Diffuser instead.
Special Settings
There are seven light settings to choose between – including shades of red, purple, and green. This makes it perfect for using as a night light for children or babies.
It also has two mist settings: continuous (which lasts for four hours) and discontinuous (lasts for eight hours).
Design
Although it’s our budget option, this TOPLANET diffuser just might be the most attractive on the list. With a blue top that looks semi-metallic and a white bottom that lights up in multiple colors, no car is too chic for this stylish gadget to look out of place.
It’s also ultra-portable, weighing in at just 192 grams. Wherever you’re heading, just chuck it in your travel bag and you’re good to go – or keep it in your car’s cupholder permanently.

Pros
Seven color settings and two mist settings
Automatic shutoff
Very portable
Attractive design

Cons
Some products have broken quickly

6. Best Ultra-Quiet Car Diffuser: Gocheer Car Diffuser

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Why we like it: Diffusers lose some of their magic if they’re so noisy that you can’t hear yourself think when they’re turned on. That won’t be a problem with the Gocheer car diffuser – it’s so quiet that you’ll barely believe it’s really there!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: Six hours
Waterless: No
Material: Polypropylene (PP)
Auto shutoff: Yes
We’ve already seen a few diffusers that operate between 35 and 40 decibels, or the noise level of a library – and anyone would concede this is pretty quiet. But the Gocheer diffuser blows them all out of the water, with a noise level of under 30 decibels. That’s about the noise level of a whisper!
We might have reached controversial territory by suggesting whispers are quieter than libraries, but we digress.
Special Settings
There are seven different color settings to choose between, giving you plenty of choice.
The light is more subtle than other diffuser models, featuring a ring around the top instead of an entire light-up section – this could be a good or bad thing depending on your taste.
Another limitation is that there aren’t different mist settings – you can only choose to turn the mist on and off. For more choice, check out the InnoGear Ultrasonic Car Diffuser.
Design
One nifty element to this diffuser’s design is the way you can control it. Instead of having to reach back to the cupholder while you’re driving (inconvenient), you can simply use switches by the charging cable.
It’s also made of corrosion-free material to help it last as long as possible.

Pros
Has automatic shutoff
Very quiet
Control it by the charging point.

Cons
Light isn’t very strong
No mist settings

7. Best Black Car Diffuser: MADETEC Ultrasonic Car Diffuser

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Why we like it: Give your car a classy, minimalist aesthetic with this cool diffuser and you won’t regret it. Complete with a convenient design and changing colors.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: Unclear
Waterless: No
Material: BPA-free plastic
Auto shutoff: Yes
Some might think it’s fickle to choose a diffuser based solely on its color, but if your car is your pride and joy, you don’t want to choose a diffuser that ruins your vibe! Especially when it’s so prominent in your vehicle.
Besides, you don’t need to worry about compromising functionality here. The MADETEC diffuser comes with a range of features, including automatic shutoff and various settings.
Special Settings
It features seven light settings, although there are only subtle differences between each one.
One major drawback is that you can’t control the mist settings, and it’s also unclear what the average duration is.
Design
The cool black design is perfect for anyone who likes to go for a monochrome vibe.
It has two power buttons (one on the diffuser itself and the other on the body) so that you can always be in control. Another convenient touch is a dedicated slot for the USB cable underneath the device, allowing you to store it effortlessly.

Pros
Minimalist, classy design
Auto shutoff
Dual power button

Cons
No mist settings
Unclear how long it runs for

8. Best No-Mist Car Diffuser: Weftnom Essential Oil Diffuser

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Why we like it: For a no-nonsense diffuser that focuses on creating good vibes and good aromatherapy instead of offering lighting and mist effects, this is the one for you.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: Lithium rechargeable
Run time: Not specified
Waterless: Yes
Material: Polypropylene (PP)
Auto shutoff: No
This Weftnom diffuser is a diffuser like no other. It uses nanovibration technology to diffuse the essential oils, meaning it doesn’t produce fog or water – it emits essential oils into the air in the purest way possible.
This is great for anyone worried about mist distracting them as they drive. It also makes the diffuser a lot quieter than many alternatives.
Unfortunately, although it requires refill pads to work, it doesn’t come with a pack of them, meaning you’ll incur a fair bit of extra expense. An alternative is the Weljoy diffuser, which does come with some refill pads.
Special Settings
Since this style of diffuser doesn’t produce fog or light, there aren’t any extra settings to choose between. But that’s the beauty of this model – and minimalists will rejoice.
Design
The design makes this diffuser extremely easy to set up – just slide the lid off, slot in your refill pads, blot the essential oils on the pads, and turn it on.
However, the design isn’t quite as convenient to slot into your car as some others on the list. It’s wider and flatter, so you can’t put it in your cupholder.

Pros
Waterless
Very quiet
Doesn’t produce mist

Cons
Shape is less convenient for the car
Doesn’t come with refill pads

9. Best Pink Car Diffuser: LEASTYLE Essential Oil Diffuser

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Why we like it: It’s 2020, pink isn’t just for girls – especially when it comes to a diffuser this cute! This one also lasts for an impressive six to eight hours.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: 10 hours
Waterless: No
Material: Plastic
Auto shutoff: Yes
If we give you the best black diffuser, you can be sure that we will also give you the best pink diffuser! Some people just need a little color in their life. And nothing can beat this gorgeous LEASTYLE portable diffuser.
But color isn’t all this diffuser has going for it. It lasts for up to 8 hours, making it the longest-lasting option on the list.
Special Settings
Like most other diffusers with light settings, there are seven colors to choose between. Also, a red light will appear once the water has almost run out.
Unfortunately, you can’t adjust how much mist comes out.
Design
The simple but effective design makes this diffuser very easy to control. Just press it once to turn the mist and light on, press it twice to turn the light off; then give a long press to turn off the diffuser altogether.
You’ll get the hang of it quickly, we promise!
One bonus is that it comes with an anti-slip mat – perfect if you want to be sure that it doesn’t fall off your cup holder and cause havoc during your journey.

Pros
Easy to control with one button design
Lasts up to ten hours
Comes with no-slip mat

Cons
No mist settings
Only comes in pink

10. Best Wood Car Diffuser: One Fire Car Diffuser

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Why we like it: This diffuser would look just as good in your cottage or country kitchen as your car, and it comes with all the essential features, like auto shutoff and lighting modes.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Charging type: USB
Run time: Unclear
Waterless: No
Material: Abs
Auto shutoff: Yes
Most car diffusers on the market tend to be made of plastic and block colors like black, white, or pink. While there’s nothing wrong with this, some people prefer a more rustic feel to their car. If that’s you, we’ve got just the thing!
Unfortunately, it’s unclear exactly how long the average run time is for this diffuser, and the water capacity is fairly low. The price you pay for style…
For an option that will last longer, consider the LEASTYLE essential oil diffuser, which can last up to ten hours.
Special Settings
One Fire makes up for the poor run time You can choose between a continuous and intermittent mode for the mist, plus seven lighting modes.
Design
Although the wooden exterior is the standout design element, the panel in the center is equally charming – especially when it lights up with one of the seven different colors available.
Meanwhile, the shape is designed to slot perfectly into your car’s cupholder. That’s about as practical as it gets!

Pros
Has automatic shutoff
Slots easily into cupholder
Has a rustic design

Cons
Unclear how long the runtime is
Low water capacity

How to Choose the Right Car Essential Oil Diffuser
You’ve seen what’s on offer – but how can you choose between them? If one particular diffuser isn’t jumping out at you (or maybe it is and you’re doubting your judgment), here are some criteria you can use to pick which one is right for you.
Why Choose a Car Essential Oil Diffuser?
The main benefit of car essential oil diffusers is obvious – they get rid of those horrible odors and help you enjoy your journeys more. But why choose an essential oil diffuser over a conventional air freshener or incense sticks?
Predictable Fragrance Output
A diffuser is more efficient than incense sticks – instead of suddenly stopping working for no apparent reason, an oil diffuser is predictable. It will last as long as it remains plugged in/charged and has liquid inside.
Can Work as a Humidifier
Diffusers are also the only option that can second as a humidifier if need be – great for dry weather and improving air quality.
Can Have Therapeutic Effects
And did you know that aromatherapy has the word “therapy” in it for a reason? Certain essential oils do a great job of relieving stress, energizing you, and more.
Although not all the benefits outlined above apply to vent clips, they do use authentic essential oils instead of chemicals.
How to Use Your Car Oil Diffuser
Exactly how to use a car oil diffuser depends on the type of diffuser you have.
Some things are universal – you should always add three to five drops of essential oil – but other elements vary.
For diffusers that rely on water to run, you must fill up the tank with water before adding the essential oils. You also need to refill the tank when the water runs out and clean the tank after using it.
If you have a waterless diffuser, you only need to add essential oils to your diffuser, and you also won’t need to clean it.
For vent clips, you need to replace the reusable pad after each use, and you can also skip the water step.
Which Type of Car Oil Diffuser Should I Choose?
There are a few different types of car oil diffusers out there, and they each have their pros and cons. To figure out which is best for you, it helps to think about how long the typical journeys you take are, where you can or will store your diffuser, and how strong a smell you want.
Water Diffusers
Diffusers that use water are by far the most popular, and for good reason. They’re very affordable, they often have added features like light or mist settings, and they double as dehumidifiers. One of the best on the market is the Innogear Ultrasonic car diffuser.
Waterless Diffusers
Alternatively, you might want a waterless model.
If you’re lazy, the idea of being able to switch your diffuser on instantly without the extra step of adding water undoubtedly holds appeal. And they also involve less cleaning!
But it’s not just lazy people that should be rejoicing. Waterless diffusers might also be healthier – because water doesn’t dilute the oil, you can get the full benefit that essential oils provide. Which is everything from boosting immunity to providing antioxidants, by the way!
If you want a waterless oil diffuser, consider the Minidiva diffuser.
Vent Clip Diffusers
The final option is a vent clip. These small diffusers can be clipped onto a car’s air vents, allowing them to slowly and gradually diffuse oils into the air when you use the air conditioning or heating. A great option is the ttstar car diffuser.
Vent clips never need to be charged since they’re not electric – but they also have a much more subtle effect. If your car needs some more intensive treatment, a vent clip might not be sufficient.
The Safety of Car Oil Diffusers
There are conflicting messages floating around about essential oil diffusers. Some rave about their health properties, while others warn that they could actually be harmful. Who should you trust?
Generally, car oil diffusers are safe, but there are a few exceptions. Certain groups – like pregnant women, diabetics, and children – are at greater risk. Especially when it comes to lavender and tea tree essential oils.
Something else to worry about is that essential oils can corrode plastics and alter the properties of essential oils, possibly exposing us to harmful chemicals. One of the most worrying ingredients is BPA, which is linked to various health conditions – especially in children.
To err on the side of caution, opt for a BPA-free diffuser like the Weljoy wood grain diffuser and avoid the most problematic essential oils.
Which Oil Is Best for Your Essential Oil Diffuser?
Most car diffusers don’t come with essential oils – so your next question is probably which essential oil to opt for. There’s no right or wrong answer here (unless you have an allergy or another condition), so we recommend experimenting, but here are a few suggestions:
Cedarwood
Frankincense
Lemongrass
Sweet orange
Sandalwood
Vanilla
As mentioned already, certain essential oils have more side effects, like lavender, tea tree, chamomile, eucalyptus, and peppermint.
FAQs
Still got a few burning questions? We’ll answer them to the best of our ability.
How Long Will a Car Essential Oil Diffuser Last?
Every model of oil diffuser lasts for a different length of time – there’s no set duration. Most diffusers also have different settings that affect its run time: a continuous mode that doesn’t last quite so long, and an intermittent mode that lasts longer.
However, on average, you can expect a diffuser to last anywhere between two and eight hours.
What Type of Water Should I Use in My Car Essential Oil Diffuser?
If you take your aromatherapy seriously, you might be wondering whether it’s best to opt for distilled water or tap water in your diffuser. This depends on which type of oil diffuser you choose – they all come with their own instructions, which might specify the type of water you need to use.
Some diffusers work best with distilled water since they have fewer minerals, resulting in less buildup of mineral deposits. However, most modern diffusers recommend using tap water since the minerals help to diffuse the water into mist. Who knew?!
Can a Car Oil Diffuser Be Used as a Humidifier?
Diffusers and humidifiers are very similar: humidifiers emit water into the air to regulate the moisture level, whereas diffusers give off smaller amounts of water along with a scent (unless it’s a waterless diffuser).
In theory, it’s possible to use an essential oil diffuser as a humidifier – all you need to do is run it without any essential oils and use water instead. This will ultimately have the same effect.
However, it’s unlikely to be as effective as a “true” humidifier since diffusers are smaller and use less water.
Are Car Oil Diffusers Safe for Dogs?
Many essential oils are indeed harmful to dogs. The dogs should only be in danger if you apply essential oils to their skin directly or if they ingest them – but diffusers may also be harmful to dogs with respiratory issues. Certain essential oils are more toxic than others, such as pine, tea tree, eucalyptus, cinnamon, and citrus oil.
If your dog vomits, coughs, or sneezes frequently, this could be a sign of overexposure to essential oils.
Are Car Oil Diffusers Safe for Cats?
As with dogs, essential oils shouldn’t harm cats as long as they don’t directly ingest them and you don’t apply them to your pet’s skin. However, cats are even more sensitive to essential oils than dogs since their livers aren’t as effective at metabolizing them.
You might prefer to tread carefully and switch the oil diffuser off when your cat is traveling with you!
Kiss Goodbye to Your Stinky Car
A car essential oil diffuser is one of those things that most people never realize they need, yet almost everyone does need. Come on – how many times have you stepped into somebody’s car and thought, “it smells lovely in here.” Very rarely (if ever), right?
You’ve clearly realized that you do need one, putting you ahead of 99% of the population. For that, you have our full respect. You’re about to become the owner best-smelling car in town – just make sure to keep it a secret, or everyone you know and their grandma will be asking for rides from you! More

There aren’t many more fun ways to get around than a pro scooter. These mobility devices are quiet, compact, and quick. They’re also a great way to get some exercise when you’re getting from place to place. If you ride a pro scooter long enough, you’re going to feel like a real slob using a car to get around.
Now some of you are thinking, “Hold on, aren’t pro scooters toys?” Yes, yes they are. Kids love these things and they make great gifts. But that isn’t all pro scooters are. Head out to any large college or company campus and you are sure to see people riding around on their pro scooters.

What You Need to Know About Pro Scooters
You’re no doubt looking for the perfect pro scooter for yourself and we’ve got you covered. We’ve got a list of the very best scooters available to purchase right now followed up by all the information you need after you get one.
We’re going to start things off at the very basics. There are a few parts of a pro scooter you must pay attention to when making a purchase. These are elements that are crucial to having a good experience as a rider. Let’s take a look at what they are.
Bars
At the very apex of any pro scooter is its bar. This is what you’ll grab onto for dear life when you’re zipping down a street or doing some stunts are the skate park. So you’re going to want bars that you can trust.
Most pro scooters have bars that are made out of steel. But as you’ll see in our list, companies have gotten creative with the materials they use to construct pro scooter bars these days. The Envy Prodigy S8, for example, has aluminum bars.
Manufacturers also tend to play around with the design of the bar a little bit. But the main thing you’re looking for is a bar that you can grip easily and do so for a long time during your rides.
Deck
The deck is the part of the scooter that you stand on when you ride around. This is perhaps the most important part of the scooter. All of the other parts – like the bars, wheels, brakes, and fork – are all connected to the deck in some way.
The decks on pro scooters are built to be sturdy and be able to take the weight of the rider. They’re also required to cop a lot of the abuse riders put the vehicle through. Manufacturers usually craft decks out of aluminum as a way to make them both lightweight and durable.
What are you looking for in a deck on a pro scooter? Two things. First, make sure that you fit on there. Secondly, you want a deck that can keep you on the pro scooter when you ride it. The grip tape on the deck is responsible for that.
Wheels
The way your pro scooter feels has a lot to do with the wheels on them. Most wheels are made out of polyurethane. But it isn’t just the material of the wheel that matters; it’s also how it connects to the body of the pro scooter.
Pro scooters wheels usually come in two sizes: 100mm and 110mm. The Arcade Plus pro scooter, for example, has 100mm wheels. The Albott Scooter is an example of a pro scooter with 110mm wheels. In general, 110m is preferred, as they offer greater durability and control.
You can try both sizes of wheels to find out which one suits you better. Pro scooter owners often find themselves replacing stock wheels for ones that are either just new or better made.
We’ve listed the deck, bars, and wheels materials for every pro scooter on our list so you have an idea of what you’d be working with.
Other Factors to Consider When Buying a Pro Scooter
Skill Level
Before you hit purchase on that pro scooter, take a long look in the mirror, metaphorically speaking. You need to be honest about your own skill level before picking out the scooter that’s right for you.
If you’re a beginner, you can choose one of the many pro scooters aimed at beginner riders. You don’t need to splurge on something that’s made out of some very premium materials. The Fuzion X-5 is a pro scooter that is a perfect entry point for pro scooter novices.
Those further along in their pro scooter journey also have a lot of products from which to choose. You’re probably at a stage where you feel confident enough that you want to head down to the skate part and hit some stunts regularly. We really like the Fuzion Z300 for that kind of thing.
Weight & Height
Different pro scooters have different capacities. You should choose one based on what your weight is so that it can handle its payload and you don’t have to move unnecessary weight around yourself.
So if you’re under 140 lbs, you can choose a scooter like the Pulse KR2. Most of the other scooters on our list have a capacity of 220 lbs.
Height is another factor to take into consideration when buying a pro scooter. You don’t want to have to reach too much to get to the bars. We’ve picked out the Albott Scooter as the best one for tall riders.
Design & Color
Pro scooters have become better-designed products over time. There are a lot of pro scooters these days that are great-looking vehicles and have some snazzy graphics.
Design, of course, often comes down to personal taste. We’ve mentioned color options and interesting design choices for the pro scooters on our list. This is something you can get a good idea about simply by taking a look at the product page. The Arcade Stunt Scooter often stands out for its graphics and comes in several color options.
So that’s everything you need to know before you buy a pro scooter. Now let’s take a look at the best options that are out there.

Top 10 Best Pro Scooters 2021
1. Best Overall Pro Scooter: Fuzion X-3 Pro Scooter

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Why we like it: The Fuzion X-3 is a smooth ride that you can use to pull off fun pro scooter tricks without much trouble.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Bars: High tensile steel
Wheels: Polyurethane
Weight: 2.35 lbs
Height: 32”
If the Fuzion X-3 was a Michael Jackson song, it would be a smooth criminal. This is a pro scooter that you’re going to ride feeling like you’re getting around on a cloud. Pro scooters are modes of transport that don’t offer you shock absorbers and other such luxuries, so your body is going to thank you for having chosen one that can take ramps and bumps well.
Speaking of ramps, this is a pro scooter that you will be able to take down to the local skate park and try out all the tricks and stunts you know. That’s thanks to the way this scooter is constructed. The wide deck and durable hand grips make it the perfect scooter for that kind of use.
Getting the Fuzion X-3 ready for action is a simple process. You can have it up and running in 10 minutes after you receive your package. All the tools required to piece it together are also included.
The only trouble that you may have with this one is that it is set pretty low. So even moderately tall riders will have to arch their back to get to the handle. The Albott Scooter is a pro scooter that can handle tall riders better.

Pros
Smooth performance
Easy to assemble
Great for tricks

Cons
Low height

2. Best Budget Pro Scooter: Pulse KR2

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Why we like it: The Pulse KR2 is well built and lasts a long time despite having a low price tag.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aluminum
Bars: Polyurethane
Wheels: Urethane
Capacity: 140 lbs
Height: 32”
The Pulse KR2 is one of the more affordable pro scooters on the market today. But that isn’t to say that it lacks in performance. When you ride this unit, you could be fooled into thinking you’re working with something a lot more high end.
One of the reasons you will feel that way is the build quality of the Pulse KR2. All the materials used on this pro scooter look high-quality and are put together well. The grip tape on the deck is tacky, just how you want it. Also, the body connects to the front wheel in a way that feels sturdy. You will find that its build can rival pro scooters that come from big box stores.
You can expect the Pulse KR2 to last a long time. Even with regular use, it can easily last a year, which is excellent value given its very competitive price. Over time, however, you may notice that some parts come loose. You can fix that with a wrench. But if you’re looking for a more durable unit, check out the Root Industries Type R pro scooter.

Pros
Very affordable
Good build quality
Long-lasting

Cons
May need to tighten parts every now and then

3. Best Beginner Pro Scooter: Fuzion X-5

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Why we like it: The Fuzion X-5 is easy to control and sturdy, making it the perfect pro scooter for beginner riders.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aluminum
Bars: High-tensile steel
Wheels: Polyurethane
Weight: 7.4 lbs
Capacity: 220 lbs
Height: 31.75”
Sometimes you don’t need all of the bells and whistles. The Fuzion X-5 is a great product for beginners looking to make a smooth entry into the world of pro scooters.
When you’re a beginner, you want to work with a pro scooter that builds your confidence. That’s exactly with the Fuzion X-5 does. The unit feels durable when you use it, even if you’re jumping mini ramps or hopping on a curb.
You always feel completely in control when you’re riding this pro scooter. The wide handlebars and sturdy deck contribute to that. The wheels tend to last a lot longer than they do on other pro scooters.
Although great for beginners, the Fuzion X-5 isn’t for more advanced riders who want to enjoy doing stunts and use it roughly. For that kind of thing, you’re better off getting the Arcade Plus.

Pros
Easy to control
Durable
Easy for beginner riders to start using

Cons
Doesn’t handle rough use well

4. Best Intermediate Pro Scooter: Arcade Plus

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Why we like it: The Arcade Plus offers a smooth ride, great braking, and a capacity of 220 lbs.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aluminum
Bars: High-tensile steel
Wheels: Polyurethane
Weight: 8.5 lb
Capacity: 220 lbs
Height: 33”
So you’ve cut your teeth with beginner level pro scooters. You’re ready to ride your way up that ladder with a scooter that can handle your upgraded skills. The Arcade Plus is the perfect pro scooter for riders who are at that juncture in their journey.
A lot of the parts on the Arcade Plus are custom made and you can feel it in the ride. The makers handpicked parts from high-end scooters and customized them to achieve their vision of a scooter that is great for intermediate users. The deck, for example, is custom-built and uses a concave design for easy handling. It can hold riders up to 220 lbs in weight.
This scooter is lightweight but feels like it is sturdy at the same time. The wheels are solid and the braking on the Arcade Plus is very responsive. It’s the kind of nuanced braking response that intermediate riders can use to pull off some fun stunts.
The only gripe you may have with this scooter is that it comes with 100mm wheels. Products in this price range usually have 110mm wheels, which would have been a nice inclusion. The Albott Scooter is a product that does offer you 110mm wheels.

Pros
Custom parts
Lightweight yet sturdy
Good braking

Cons
100mm wheels as opposed to 110mm

5. Best Stunt Pro Scooter: Fuzion Z300

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Why we like it: The Fuzion Z300 is the kind of pro scooter you can take to the skate park and easily pull off all the tricks you can dream of without worrying about whether the scooter can handle it.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Bars: Alloy steel
Wheels: Polyurethane
Weight: 8 pounds
Capacity: 220 lbs
Height: 32.5”
When some people think pro scooters, they imagine getting around silently and without causing too much of a hassle to anyone. Others think about landing heelwhips or nose pivots. If you fall in the latter category, then the Fuzion Z300 is the pro scooter that will let you live your dreams.
As you’d expect from a pro scooter meant for showing your skills, the Fuzion Z300 handles very well. The build quality is premium. You can see that the headtube, riser bars, and other parts are all sturdy and can handle some rough use. It’s also a good-looking product, coming in colors that include teal, black, and red.
You’re going to be excited when this one shows up at your doorstep and you’ll be happy to find out that it is easy to assemble. The package itself is secure, which means you don’t have to worry about any damaged parts usually. You can put the entire thing together in as little as 10 minutes. You’ll probably be off to the skate park after that.
If you’re considering the Z300, you will notice that it is priced higher than most pro scooters out there. But it is worth noting that with this one, you get what you pay for. This is the kind of product that you can buy and not have to worry about repairs or replacements for a long time.

Pros
Good for stunting
Multiple color choices
Easy assembly

Cons
High price

6. Best Premium Pro Scooter: Envy Prodigy S8

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Why we like it: The Envy Prodigy S8 offers the triple threat of good looks, durability, and great performance.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aluminum
Bars: Aluminum
Wheels: Polyurethane
Weight: 7.7 pounds
Height: 34.6”
Envy has produced what will be the envy of all your pro scooter-riding friends with this one. The Prodigy S8 is, for starters, a looker. It’s clear that everything from the design of the handlebars to the pattern inside the wheel has been chosen with care. So this is the pro scooter for you if you like to be the darling of the skate park.
But the Envy Prodigy S8 isn’t all looks. This pro scooter can take some heavy-duty riding and still come away looking good. You can do cement half pipes and grinds on wood with confidence when you own one of these.
The wheels on this pro scooter will stand out immediately because they’re larger than average. That does mean a smoother ride and the ability to handle bumps and rough terrain well.
The Envy Prodigy S8 is not easy on the pocket. However, if you’re looking for a pro scooter that can serve all your riding needs and do it consistently for a long time, it’s the right choice.

Pros
Well designed
Can handle heavy-duty riding
Smooth performance

Cons
Relatively high priced

7. Best for Tall People: Albott Scooter

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Why we like it: If you’re tall and need a scooter that won’t prove a menace to your back, the Albott Scooter is what you’re looking for.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aircraft-grade aluminum
Bars: High-tensile steel
Wheels: Aluminum
Weight: 7.9 lbs
Capacity: 220 lbs
Height: 32”
Pro scooters have always proved a little bit of a challenge for tall riders. You don’t want to have to break your posture to land your favorite stunts or even just ride around. The Albott Scooter gives all you tall riders out there some much-needed reprieve.
Here’s how it does that. If you’re up to 6 feet tall or thereabouts, you need a pro scooter with bars that are at least 20” tall, if not taller. The Albott Scooter checks that box thanks to its height of 22.8″. So you won’t have to constantly reach down for the handlebars while riding this scooter.
Although taller than some of its competition, this pro scooter is also pretty lightweight. Riding around on this thing is a breeze and the solid build gives you the confidence to try out some tricks immediately. The wheels are high quality and can handle some extra weight if you’re carrying it.
The Albott Scooter isn’t the cheapest product around but it will feel like money well spent once you’ve taken it for a spin.

Pros
Perfect for tall riders
High-quality wheels
Lightweight

Cons
Moderately high price

8. Best Durable Pro Scooter: Root Industries Type R

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Why we like it: The Root Industries Type R scooter is built to be rock solid and can handle heavy-duty riding with ease.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Bars: Chromoly Steel
Wheels: Polyurethane
Weight: 8 lbs
Capacity: 220 lbs
The first thing you’ll notice about the Root Industries Type R is the design. This pro scooter comes in some snazzy colors, including what they call Gold Rush and a very suave Matte Black.
But if you ask a long-time user what they enjoy about this pro scooter, you’ll hear the word sturdy thrown around a lot. That’s because this is the kind of scooter you’ll take for a spin and very quickly want to test on a few ramps. The Type R can take rough use and be none the worse for wear.
The only area where you may see some effect of heavy-duty riding is the grip tape on the deck. But that’s a minor component that you can replace easily on the scooter. If you can keep the grip tape in play, this is a great pro scooter to try all your tricks and stunts on.

Pros
Rock-solid build
Multiple color options
Good for stunts

Cons
Grip tape tends to come off frequently

9. Mongoose Rise

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Why we like it: This lightweight pro scooter is easy to assemble and conducive to stunting.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Lightweight alloy
Bars: Welded steel
Wheels: Plastic
Capacity: 220 lbs
Mongoose is a name that’s well-known in the world of bicycling. The company has also forayed into the world of pro scooters and has done a great job of it with the Rise.
Riders will enjoy the wide-set handlebars on the Mongoose Rise. You will notice quickly that they are wider than the average handlebar. This can mean better control if you’re trying to pull off certain tricks.
This pro scooter has another characteristic that makes it conducive for stunts: its low weight. That makes it easy to zip around and to pull off moves like bunny hops.
Mongoose has plenty of experience in the world of mobility and that shows with the rise. Assembling this product takes practically no time. The tools that come with the package make the entire process very quick.
Is the Mongoose Rise the most durable scooter in the world? Not quite. This product has a tendency to catch some scratches and throw up loose parts every now and then. But the way it performs makes it hard to pass on.

Pros
Wide-set handlebars
Low weight
Easy assembly

Cons
Not very durable

10. Arcade Stunt Scooter

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Why we like it: The Arcade Stunt Scooter is an affordable way to get access to a smooth performing pro scooter.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Deck: Aircraft aluminum
Wheels: Polycarbonate
Weight: 7.5 lbs
Capacity: 220 lbs
It’s not often that you use a product and think about how you would have been willing to pay more for it than you did. That’s the feeling the Arcade Stunt Scooter leaves you with. We saw the Arcade Plus from the same stable earlier in our list. This pro scooter is a more affordable entry into that world but doesn’t skimp on performance much.
The Arcade Stunt Scooter lives up to its name and makes stunt-riding very fun and easy. You can thank the wide deck and long handlebars for that. If you’ve got a skate park near you, you’re going to find yourself spending a lot of time there with this pro scooter.
Children also tend to feel more confident on this pro scooter. That’s because of how well it handles different riding conditions. You always feel in control of it and if you don’t, the brakes always kick in in a timely manner.
Children and adults alike will enjoy the way this pro scooter looks. The graphics on this thing are nicely done and all the color options are great.
The bearings in the wheels of the Arcade Stunt Scooter can start to get squeaky with some use, so you may need to oil the wheels regularly to go back to riding it quietly.

Pros
Relatively affordable
Apt for children
Great color options

Cons
Squeaky wheel bearings

Complete Guide to Making the Most of Your Pro Scooter
You’re now familiar with all of the best pro scooters that are on the market. You also know how to go about making the choice that’s right for you. Let’s now take a look at the information you need to make the most out of the pro scooter that you choose.
How to Maintain a Pro Scooter
Pro scooters need regular maintenance. Well, at least if you want them to last a long time. Let’s talk about how you can make that happen.
Cleaning
The most basic thing that you can do is keep your pro scooter clean. Wipe it down regularly. Remove any debris that’s caught in the wheels and nooks. This is not the most exciting thing about owning a pro scooter but it will hold you in good stead over the long term.
Surfaces
You don’t want to go too crazy with where you ride pro scooters. These are generally made to be used on surfaces like cement and sometimes gravel. You don’t want to go off and ride your pro scooter on any other surfaces too often. You may find yourself replacing its wheels frequently and deal with loose parts if you do.
Tighten Parts
Since we brought up loose parts, let’s stick with that theme. The parts on your pro scooter will get loose over time. All the rattles and halts you put it through will do that. So tighten the parts whenever you feel like they’re loose. This will keep your pro scooter safe to ride for a long time.
Oiling
Some parts are more prone to rust or ceasing up rather than becoming loose. If that’s what you’re dealing with, whip out the oil can. Doing so once a week is a good idea.
Brake Gently
Now we understand that you want to pull off donuts on a bike. And that’s fine every now and then. But as much as possible, avoid hitting the brakes on your pro scooter too hard too often. Doing that can whittle off the material of the wheels and lead to a bumpier ride eventually.
Pro Scooter Clothing & Protection
Pro scooters are zippy little things, but not so much so that they pose a major risk in most conditions. So you won’t need a suit of armor if you ride one of these around. You do, however, need to at least have on some basic protective clothing to keep yourself safe.
Let’s start with the shoes. You’ll need comfortable shoes with a good grip when you ride a pro scooter. Sandals may seem comfortable but they won’t keep your feet protected when you ride a pro scooter.
You have some leeway when it comes to pants. You can wear short or long pants when you ride a scooter. The only thing you need to make sure of is that your knees are covered. Make sure you wear pants that give you enough freedom to move around the way you need to on a pro scooter.
Now the aforementioned pieces of clothing should be enough for the average pro scooter ride. You need to take some more precautions if you’re going to go stunting. In that case, you must have a helmet on. You could also get elbow and knee guards if you’re not too experienced with tricks on a pro scooter.
How to Customize A Pro Scooter
For some people, just owning a pro scooter isn’t enough. They have to make it their own. There are a couple of options available to those who want to customize their pro scooter.
The first is to find a shop near you that sells custom scooters. There are several of these in most major cities across the country. You can go down to one of these shops and tell them exactly what you want in a custom scooter and they’ll build it for you from the ground up.
The other option you have is to buy a pro scooter and then retrofit parts that you want on it. You can buy just about every part that goes on a pro scooter individually on Amazon. Check out these aftermarket wheels or deck for example. If you’ve got the know-how, you can customize every single part of your pro scooter.
Pro Scooter FAQ
How Long Do Pro Scooters Last?
Pro scooters last about a year on average if you take good care of them. Their actual lifespan depends on the brand that you decide to buy and how you take care of it.
Choosing any of the pro scooters on our list is a good starting point for a long relationship with one of these. You also need to make sure that you maintain your scooter well by using the tips that we gave in the section about pro scooter care.
How Fast Do Pro Scooters Go?
Pro scooters weren’t built to go at a million miles an hour. So if you’re looking for those kinds of thrills, you’re not going to find them here. These mobility devices are more for easy movement and some nifty tricks.
You can hit speeds of about 10 mph if you’re cruising down an empty path on a pro scooter. You’ll really need to put your body to work if you want to go faster than 20 mph on one. At that point, it turns into a real workout.
How Can I Maximize the Speed of a Pro Scooter?
We’ve established that pro scooters weren’t built to satiate a need for speed. But you can still do certain things to go as fast as you possibly can on one that you own.
You’ve probably already realized that the harder you kick, the faster your scooter will go. To get the most out of your kicks, wear shoes that are flexible. If you wear hard shoes, you will waste energy. Flexible shoes will channel your energy through the scooter better.
A lesser-known tip is to check whether the handlebar is the right size for you. If it’s lower than it’s supposed to be, then you’re probably applying too much weight to the front of the vehicle.
Can I Convert My Pro Scooter Into an Electric Scooter?
Yes, it is possible to turn your pro scooter into an electric scooter. It’s a little bit of an arduous process that you will need technical know-how to get right.
It starts with taking your existing pro scooter apart completely. You will then need to attach CIM motors to the body of the scooter. Keeping the motor protected is important so you will need to build an aluminum housing for it.
The power for the motor will come from a Li-ion battery pack. You will need to readjust the brakes to make this system work. You can read about the conversion process in detail on this page.
Final Thoughts
Pro scooters, as we’ve learned, are a lot more than just a fun gift for kids. If you ride these enough, you’ll learn they’re a great way to travel short distances and engage your body in the process. If you’re looking for something that can survive a more arduous commute, but is less cumbersome and expensive than a car, check out our list of the best gas scooters.
These aren’t as hardy as other modes of transportation so it’s important that you take good care of your pro scooter. Thankfully, cleaning and oiling a scooter doesn’t take very long.
Now you know everything you need to zip around on your pro scooter. Have fun and stay safe! More

Water is the essence of life—a critical molecule no known creature can live without. It hydrates cells, dissolves toxins, and nourishes our entire organism to allow nutrients to flow.
Unlike at home, you can’t always expect to encounter a clean supply of pleasant-tasting water while on the road. Excessive chlorine, sediment, and bacteria lurk within freshwater refill points, especially in far-flung regions without access to a city water supply. And not only will these contaminants cause your water to become murky and foul, but they can also provoke significant health issues.
The good news is there’s a relatively simple, cost-effective solution: the RV water filter. Sold in various shapes and sizes, these indispensable devices turn odorous water fresh—and in some cases, they can even eliminate nasty water-borne compounds.
RV water filters aren’t all one and the same; some designs are only suitable for specific situations. To help you wrap your head around the technology, we’ve put together an in-depth RV Water Filter Buyer’s Guide.
What’s more, to help you pick out the perfect product for your needs, we’ve researched and reviewed the top 10 RV-friendly water filters on the market.

Features To Consider in an RV Water Filter:
Several different types of RV water filters are available, each specially designed to cater to distinct users. Certain filters excel in certain areas—what’s right for one RVer mightn’t be the best option for you. Factor the following considerations into your final decision to find the ideal filtration solution for your needs.
Filtration System
RV water filters work in different ways, and the optimal filtration system depends on your usual water source. RVers who rely entirely on city water could buy a simple carbon filter, while remote adventurers will need something more extreme.
Installation Type
RV water filters can be installed under the sink, on your countertop, or at the end of your freshwater hose. If you’re not an avid DIYer, then consider opting for one of the easier-to-install options (i.e., inline) to save on installation costs. 
Time Spent in RV
Full-time RVers will need a comprehensive filtration system that performs well in various conditions. Weekend warriors, on the other hand, might prefer to stick with something simple (and cheap).
Price
Our recommended RV water filters range from $20 to $400+, with the upper end producing clear water with impeccable taste. Devices that eliminate harmful metals and bacteria are more expensive; consider whether your water source warrants extra protection.
Maintenance/Replacement Costs:
Every RV water filter has a limited shelf life, whether that means replacing a cartridge, a bulb, or the entire system. You should factor longevity into your decision-making process to determine the real, on-going cost of a filtration unit.
Dimensions
If you’re looking at an under-the-sink or countertop filter, you must first measure the available space. There’s no point purchasing a fantastic water filter if it doesn’t fit in your rig. Dimensions are less critical for external inline filters, which tend to be small anyway.
Micron Rating
All filters are rated at filtering particles of a specific size, referred to as microns. Basic carbon/sediment filters might only filter out large particles of 20 microns or more, while advanced models could catch particles smaller than one micron.
Gallons Per Minute
Gallons per minute, or flow rate, refers to how much water can pass through the filter at a time. A high GPM rating means the filter will cleanse a large quantity of water over a short period. Flow rate becomes especially important for RVs with a direct connection to a city water supply.
Water filters are just one way to keep your RV safe and clean. Don’t forget to check out our guides on the best RV air conditioners and toilets to buy as well.

Top 10 Best RV Water Filters 2021
1. Best Overall Pick: Camco 40043 TastePure RV Water Filter

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Why we like it: The Camco 40043 is a highly effective and affordable inline filter that’s super simple to use.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Carbon and sediment
Installation Type: Inline
Longevity: 3 months / 500 gallons
Micron Rating: 20 microns
If you’re just after something quick and easy that works, Camco has got you covered with its widely popular 40043 model. This simple inline filter clips into your hose (we recommend putting it on the RV side of the line) to filter out foul-tasting chlorine as well as sediment particles larger than 20 microns. Once you’re done filling up, just pop it out again and store it with your hose for next time.
You’ll get about 500 gallons of use out of this unit, enough to last a full-time RVer an entire camping season. And when it comes time to replace it again, the reasonably priced filter won’t break the bank. Although it’s specifically designed for RV use, nothing is stopping you from using the system in your garden or boat as well.
KDF technology helps protect against nasty contaminants such as hydrogen sulfide, iron, and heavy metals. As always, however, KDF isn’t a fail-safe solution, so only use this device on a potable water supply.
Most RVers use it to turn the dank tasting water at the campsite into something more palatable, and Camco certainly delivers in this respect. It’s an American-made product, too, so you can feel good about supporting the economy with each purchase.
If you’ve already got a flexible hose extension nozzle, consider opting for the Camco 40045 model instead. In essence, it’s the same great inline water filter, but sans the hose extension nozzle, thus cheaper.

Pros
Easy to install
Comes with a hose nozzle
Carbon filter with KDF
Filters large sediment particles
Long shelf life

Cons
Can’t filter small sediment particles
Doesn’t offer full protection against bacteria

2. Best Budget Pick: AmazonBasics Inline Water Filter, 4 pack

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Why we like it: You get four individual inline water filters for one low price—talk about affordable!
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Carbon and sediment
Installation Type: Inline
Longevity: 1350 gallons / one camping season
Micron Rating: 20 microns
Full-time RVers who live out of their rig need to filter gallons and gallons of water each week. And those using an inline filter (which cleans all the water that enters the tank) will find it needs to be replaced rather quickly, costing you both time and money.
One of the most cost-effective solutions to this conundrum is to buy in bulk—specifically, this four-pack from AmazonBasics costs a fraction of the competition. Each filter can last a good three months with heavy use (1,350 gallons each), so four will do you for a full year. Additionally, you could save a couple of bucks more by opting for the bigger four-pack if you prefer.
Although the filter isn’t specially designed for RV use, it does the job just fine. The granulated carbon filter works well at removing foul odors and taste from a chlorinated city water supply. Meanwhile, built-in KDF technology helps protect against bacteria, fungus, aluminum, and other metals.
Be aware that this one doesn’t come with the flexible hose nozzle, so you’ll need to create one yourself (cut your hose into a small piece). It also only filters sediment particles over 20 microns and isn’t all that powerful against microbes, so look elsewhere if you plan on filling up from wells or streams.
Nonetheless, it’s a reliable option at a low price that appeals to the heavy-use RVer on a budget.

Pros
Bulk buy discounts
Each filter is suitable for 1,350 gallons
KDF technology helps protect against bacteria and metals
Inline design filters entire freshwater tank

Cons
Doesn’t come with a flexible nozzle
Only suitable for city water

3. Best Premium Pick: AQUA TRU Countertop Reverse Osmosis

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Why we like it: It uses advanced reverse osmosis technology to create delicious water that’s 100% safe.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Reverse osmosis
Dimensions: 18 x 18 x 15 inches
Installation Type: Countertop
Longevity: 1 filter set per 4,500 bottles (16.9 oz.)
It doesn’t come cheap and takes up a considerable amount of space on your kitchen bench, but if it’s crystal clear and impeccably tasty water you’re after, reverse osmosis can’t be beaten. And while there are several competing countertop systems out there, we rate this model from AQUA TRU as the best for its compact design.
Coming in at 18 x 18 x 15 inches, you don’t need to sacrifice an excessive amount of space to make the most of this beast. For health-conscious users concerned about carcinogens, toxins, heavy metals, and other contaminants, the lost bench space is a worthy investment indeed (if you’re traveling in a roomy RV, anyway).
The unit complies with strict IAMPO Standards and removes up to 82 contaminants, bringing you safe and delicious tasting water that’s just as good as the bottled stuff. As it’s a countertop unit, there’s no tricky installation required—just plug it in and fill it up with water.
The downside to a reverse osmosis countertop system is it’s just not as convenient as other types. You’ll need to load up a gallon of water each morning to last the day (only using it for drinking), and the reverse osmosis process takes about 15 minutes to complete.
Nevertheless, if you find yourself frequently forking out for “clean” bottled water in the gas station, this reverse osmosis system is the ideal solution for your RV. And should you balk at the hefty price tag, it’s nice to know the unit comes with a one-year warranty.
Like other reverse osmosis systems, it’s intended for domestic use and runs on 110V. Therefore, you’ll need an inverter to use it with a 12V RV system.

Pros
Compact countertop system
Filters out 82 contaminants
Creates clean and delicious water
Filters one gallon in 15 minutes
Suitable replacement for bottled water

Cons
Less convenient than other filter types
More expensive than other filter types

4. Best Single-Canister Inline System: Camco EVO Premium RV Water Filter

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Why we like it: It’s easy to use and does a better job at removing sediment than an inline filter.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Sediment and carbon
Installation Type: Inline single-canister
Longevity: One camping season
Micron Rating: 5 microns
If you like the sound of a simple inline system but want the security of a fine sediment filter, then a canister system is your best bet. And this superb model from Camco is the finest single-canister water filter on the market.
Designed specifically for RV use, the device filters out sediment particles of 5 microns or larger, far finer than a standard inline filter (usually 20 microns or so). You still get all the added benefits of a granulated carbon filter—think fresh-tasting water that’s free from chlorine.
Canister systems are just as easy to use as inline filters. All you need to do is plug it into an ordinary-sized hose and use it to fill up your RV. This model comes with a flexible hose extension you can slip into the fresh water tank with ease—a truly turn-key solution.
It’ll last a full season, and you can replace the cartridge rather than the whole system when the time comes. In-built KDF technology helps protect against hydrogen sulfide, iron, lead, and other nastiness while also inhibiting fungus and mold growth.
Although it comes in at about twice the price of our favorite inline filter, the Camco 40043 TastePure, we feel it’s a worthy investment for a full season of crystal clear, pleasant-tasting water.

Pros
Excellent mid-range solution
Fine 5-micron filter
Works well with sediment
KDF technology inhibits fungus and mold
Comes with a flexible hose extension

Cons
Much more expensive than normal inline filters

5. Best Long-Lasting Inline: Culligan RV-800 Exterior Water Filter

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Why we like it: It does a top job at filtering out chlorine and boasts an impressive shelf life.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Carbon and sediment
Installation Type: Inline
Longevity: 2,000 gallons
GPM: 1.0
Culligan is a great alternative to Camco and a fantastic solution when you want clean water with minimal fuss. This particular inline model is the brand’s flagship and is commonly seen in RV parks all around America.
The secret to its success is its simple inline design, which doesn’t require any installation whatsoever. Just plug it into a normal-sized tap and hose, and you’re good to go. Like most inline filters, the sediment option isn’t ideal, but it’s certainly better than nothing. The granulated carbon filter works wonders, however, as you won’t notice any unpleasant chlorine or algae after tones.
A big reason to opt for this model is longevity. While many competitors are only suitable for 500 gallons or so, the Culligan RV-800 is rated for a whopping 2,000 gallons—a massive difference. It’s worth noting the precise shelf life depends entirely on the quality of the water you’re filtering. Nevertheless, we’re confident you’ll get through an extended camping season with the Culligan RV-800.
Another neat little bonus is you can purchase the unit without the flexible connector hose to save money (we recommend getting one if you don’t have it already).
Remember, though, that inline filters are only suitable for use with potable city water.

Pros
Good for 2,000 gallons
Works with sediment
Filters chlorine and algae
Can purchase without hose extension

Cons
Only suitable for potable water

6. Best Under-The-Sink Water Filter: Waterdrop 10UA Water Filter System

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Why we like it: It fits nicely under the sink and does an outstanding job at filtering drinking/dishwater.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Carbon and sediment
Installation Type: Under-the-sink
Longevity: 8,000 gallons
Micron Rating: 0.01 micron
GPM: 2 GPM
Under-the-sink RV water filters have an undeserved reputation for being more trouble than they’re worth. Terrified DIYers discount them for the mere fact an installation is required—even if the process requires no special skills and takes under three minutes to complete, as is the case with this model from Waterdrop.
The Waterdrop 10UA is the best under-the-sink filter on the market for its impressive filtration power and its easy-to-install design. Push-to-connect fittings and a twist-and-lock layout let you install and replace the filter easily, even without any previous plumbing experience. Plus, it uses the universal 3/8” standard sizing, making it compatible with most RV sinks in America.
The filter itself is far superior to a standard inline filter as well. Boasting a four-stage filtration system, it’ll remove 99% of contaminants from your drinking water, including chlorine, odor, sediment, rust, and heavy metals. The micron rating is equally impressive; it’s capable of filtering tiny particles as small as 0.01 microns. And that makes it safe enough to drink untested water from wells or even natural sources, providing there’s no heavy metal contamination.
As an under-the-sink filter, it’ll only work on the water coming out of that specific faucet. But so long as you remember to fill your cup or bottle from the same sink, it shouldn’t be an issue. The filter flows at up to 2.0 GPM, which is more than enough to do the dishes.
If you’ve got space to install this one under your sink (it’s 3.6 x 3.6 x 12.3 inches), then there’s no need to rely on an inferior inline filter ever again.

Pros
Easy to install
Superior to inline filters
Works on particles of 0.01 microns
Removes most contaminants

Cons
Requires sufficient space under the sink
Requires installation

7. Best UV Water Purifier for RVs: HQUA-OWS-6 Ultraviolet Water Purifier

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Why we like it: It uses the power of a 25W ultraviolet bulb to sterilize nasty bacteria in your water.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: UV
Installation Type: Under-the-sink
Longevity: One year
Micron Rating: 5 microns
GPM: 6 GPM
If you’re hoping to source water from natural streams, then you can’t afford to rely on an ordinary sediment and carbon filter combo. Bacteria and other ghastly microbes can lurk within even the clearest water and pose a serious threat to your health.
While reverse osmosis does a beautiful job at killing off the nastiness, a more comprehensive option is ultraviolet. This unit from HQUA sits under the sink to cleanse water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, safeguarding your family from harmful microscopic organisms. Compare that to reverse osmosis, which is only viable for treating the water you drink.
Before you get too excited about UV, there are a few things to know about the tech. First, this model isn’t specifically designed for RV use as it runs off 110V. Therefore, you’ll need an inverter to run it on your off-grid 12V electrical system, which means you’ll lose efficiency and chew through your battery in the process.
You’ll also need an effective sediment filter because bacteria are known to hide behind particles smaller than 5 microns, thus won’t be affected by the UV rays. We recommend using the Camco EVO Premium RV Water Filter as an exterior inline filter to complement the HQUA-OWS-6.
The HQUA-OWS-6 excels at RV use for two key reasons: size and ease of installation. Coming in at a petite 22.8 x 2.5 x 2.5 inches, it’s small enough to squeeze under most RV sinks (we recommend checking first). Furthermore, you don’t need a plumber as the horizontal installation is easy enough to pull off yourself.
As a nice bonus, it comes with an extra UV tube. Aim to replace your original one after about 12 months or so.

Pros
Great at killing bacteria
Easy to install without a plumber
Small enough for most RV sinks
Comes with a replacement UV bulb

Cons
110V appliance requires an inverter
Needs strong sediment filter

8. Best for Fluoride Removal: AQUA CREST RV Inline Water Filter

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Why we like it: Aqua Crest offers a superb inline water filter to achieve optimal cleanliness at a reasonable price.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Carbon and sediment
Installation Type: Inline
Longevity: One camping season / three months
Micron Rating: 20 microns
Aqua Crest is the biggest competitor to Camco in the inline water filter field, and their flagship model performs exceptionally well for the price. The cost is one of the main reasons to consider investing in this brand, which offers similar benefits for a substantially lower price than the Camco 40043.
Both products use carbon and sediment filtration systems along with KDP technology to create clean and safe water for your entire freshwater tank. The Aqua Crest goes one step further by adding a fluoride removal function, which is great if you would rather not ingest the controversial monatomic anion (but not so good if you would).
Both products also have an identical micron limit of 20 and a similar shelf life of around three months, depending on usage.
So what’s the difference between the two, apart from cost? Well, the Camco 40043 delivers better-tasting water on the whole; it just feels more fresh and easy on the palate. The included hose protector extension on the Aqua Crest is also rather flimsy and tends to break easily.
Speaking of the hose extension, if you don’t want one, you can purchase a hoseless two-pack or four-pack to save even more money.

Pros
Low-cost inline filter
Filters sediment larger than 20 microns
Carbon filter with KDP technology
Removes fluoride

Cons
Water doesn’t taste as good as Camco 40043
Hose extension is flimsy

9. Best Dual-Canister System: Beech Lane Dual Water Filter System

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Why we like it: Beech Lane incorporates two separate filters into one for optimal cleansing action.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Sediment and carbon
Installation Type: Inline
Longevity: 6 months
Micron Rating: 0.5 and 5 microns
“Two RV water filters are better than one,” as the ancient proverb goes. And Beech Lane brings truth to this age-old adage with its coveted dual water filter system.
The twin-canister approach works similarly to an inline filter: you plug it into the hose and fill up your entire RV fresh water tank. As a result, no special installation is required, making it an attractive option to RVers who aren’t confident with DIY installs.
The big advantage of a dual filtration system is the extra small micron rating. With a standard inline system, for example, you’d be lucky to get rid of anything under 20 microns. But with Beech Lane, two filters work in conjunction to catch sediment under 5 microns and then again under 0.5 microns. The result? You won’t have any unsightly and potentially harmful particles floating around in your freshwater tank—perfect for when you don’t rely entirely on the city water supply.
The unit comes with a durable design to handle the rigors of the road. Sturdy brass fixtures hold it firmly in place, while the universal ¾” pipes and connections aren’t prone to leakage. The company even throws in a wrench so you can quickly assemble and pack down the device.
On the downside, the dual-canister system is larger and more expensive than a simple inline filter. But if clean and delicious-tasting water is a top priority for you, these are small sacrifices to make.

Pros
Filters out fine particles
Dual carbon and a sediment filter
Strong, robust design
No installation required

Cons
Much larger than an inline filter
More expensive than an inline filter

10. Best for Permanent RV Hookups: Hydro Life HL-200 External Filter Kit

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Why we like it: This reliable canister model from Hydro Life is specially designed for permanent use.
Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:
Filtration System: Carbon and sediment
Installation Type: Single canister inline
Longevity: 3-6 months
GPM: 2.5 GPM
Not every RV owner is out there exploring the country on a whim; some of us are permanently sitting pretty in a trailer park, paying a fraction of the monthly rent compared to a normal house. And for permanent campers and trailer dwellers, the HL-200 from Hydro Life offers the ultimate filtration solution—it’s effective and cheap.
This exterior single-canister model has been adapted for permanent use. Consequently, you can hook it up and forget it for 3-6 months until it’s time to change the cartridge. Installing the device is easy and doesn’t require any special skills or tools, nor does changing the filter—no need to hire a pricey plumber to help you here.
Another key feature that makes it ideal for permanent users is its high flow rate. Filtering up to 2.5 GPM, you can run multiple faucets or even a shower through the unit. Heavy-duty fittings keep it lodged firmly in place, so it’s suitable for a direct and continuous connection to the city water supply.
The filter itself works rather well, with both granulated carbon and KDF media protecting against bacteria, chlorine, and more.
On the downside, it’s not convenient if you like to move around a lot—opt for an inline filter instead for maximum portability. It’s also not fantastic at filtering out sediment, so give this one a miss if you’re sourcing water off the grid.

Pros
Great for permanent trailer park dwellers
Suitable for continuous connection to the city water supply
Long-lasting cartridge doesn’t require frequent replacement
Carbon and KDF filtration

Cons
Doesn’t filter sediment very well
Bulkier than an inline filter

RV Water Filters Buyer’s Guide
A mind-boggling array of RV water filters are available to choose from, each specializing in filtering out different things. To help you wrap your head around the technical complexities, we’ve put together this in-depth buyer’s guide.
Why You Should Purchase an RV Water Filter
Even if you always get your freshwater from a safe city water source, there’s no guarantee it’ll taste great. Excessive chlorine, fluoride, and particles burrowed inside your water hose or tank can emit a foul odor and taste, forcing you to retch every time you drink from the faucet. And should you top up your tanks with well water (AKA bore water) or from a natural river or stream, there’s a good chance it’ll be full of nasty contaminants that could make you sick.
An RV water filter will serve one of two purposes: restoring a pleasant taste and/or removing harmful contaminants. Having unlimited access to tasty potable water means you’ll save a fortune on bottled water and reduce unnecessary plastic waste.
Understanding Contaminants
Several different contaminants can affect the taste, odor, color, and safety of your water.
Chlorine and Fluoride
Treated water contains chlorine and fluoride to kill off any harmful bacteria, thus rendering it fit for human consumption. While these chemical elements aren’t harmful, they do taste rather unpleasant.
Treatment: Carbon filters
Sediment
Sediment refers to tiny particles of dust, dirt, or sand that float in the water or settle on the bottom. These may or may not be safe for human consumption; sometimes, they’re contaminated with heavy metals or PCBs. In either case, sediment will negatively affect the taste and color as well as potentially clog up the plumbing in your rig.
Treatment: Sediment filters
Bacteria and Other Microorganisms
Bacteria and other microorganisms can contaminate water through the fecal matter of animals or humans.  These spread dangerous water-borne diseases that lead to nasty gastro illnesses.
Treatments: Reverse osmosis, UV radiation, boiling the water
Heavy Metals
Heavy metals can contaminate water through the runoff from industry and urbanization. Although the consequences aren’t immediately obvious, these contaminants are highly hazardous. Ill effects include cancer, organ damage, and stunted growth.
While several methods can treat heavy metal contamination on an industrial scale, the only practical solution in an RV is reverse osmosis. Nonetheless, we recommend avoiding water with any potential heavy metal contamination entirely.
Treatments: Precipitation, ion exchange, electrochemical treatment, solvent extraction, adsorption, reverse osmosis
Understanding Your Water Source

Where you usually source your water not only affects how tasty and safe it will be, it also determines what kind of water filter is best for your needs.
City Water
Most RVers fill their tanks from the city water supply, usually from the local RV park faucet. Also known as town water, this is the same water that’s pumped into houses and businesses around the region. Generally, city water is safe to consume.
As a highly developed first world country, even the smallest American towns tend to have a potable water supply. Nonetheless, if you’re ever in doubt while venturing through a remote area, it’s best to double-check with the townsfolk first.
We recommend the Camco 40043 if you only intend to treat city water.
Well Water
Well water, also known as bore water, is sourced directly from deep under the ground and may contain water-borne diseases that provoke diarrhea and other gastro illness. Aside from these nasty microorganisms, well water often has sediment that leaves an opaque color and unpleasant taste—plus, excess sediment can clog up the piping in your RV. Worse yet, bore water sometimes comes with trace amounts of heavy metals that can be extremely harmful if consumed.
Well water is generally reserved for irrigation, livestock, and washing. On some occasions, it may be potable without treatment, but you’ll need to confirm whether the landowners have done the appropriate laboratory testing.
When well water is free of heavy metals, you can still drink it if you filter out the sediment and bacteria. A good option for filtering well water is the Waterdrop 10UA Water Filter System. Or, if bacteria are likely to be present, try a UV filter or reverse osmosis system instead.
Rivers and Streams
Hardcore RVers who do remote boondocking for extended periods may prefer to extract water from a natural stream rather than heading back into town every time they run dry. Contaminants like bacteria live in stream water and could make you sick, so you need to ensure you’ve got an adequate filtration system.
Most of the time, a combination sediment filter and UV light filter will do the trick—although reverse osmosis is the only way to be 100% sure.
If you plan to treat stream water, then the HQUA-OWS-6 Ultraviolet Water Purifier (for bacteria) combined with the Camco EVO Premium RV Water Filter (for sediment) is an excellent combo.
RV Water Filtration Types
Now that you’re well versed in water sources and contaminants, it’s time to examine the four main water filter types found in RVs.
Carbon Filters
Granulated carbon filters are the most common as they’re cost-effective and highly efficient at eliminating chlorine. Government authorities add chlorine to the city water supply to disinfect it, cleansing bacteria and other harmful contaminants. Chlorine works through oxidation, penetrating the wall of harmful bacteria to neutralize adverse health effects.
The downside to chlorine is it leaves an unpleasant, acrid smell and chemical taste. The carbon filter will remove chlorine and the associated odor through absorption, restoring its clean and crisp taste. And as chlorine has already had plenty of time to neutralize bacteria in the water, the carbon filter won’t compromise safety.
Who should purchase a carbon filter: Carbon filters are good for RVers who fill up exclusively from the city water supply and want to improve its taste. Because they filter sediment or bacteria well, they’re not suitable for well or stream water.
Our favorite carbon filter: We recommend the Camco 40043 for treating the chlorine taste associated with city water.
Sediment Filters
Water from wells and natural streams may take on a murky brown appearance due to sediment, tiny particles of debris floating in the water. Not only does sediment look and taste terrible, but it’s detrimental to the health of both you and your RV.
If sediment becomes contaminated with pollutants like pesticides, heavy metals, or PCBs, it can cause an array of adverse health effects, including congenital disabilities, hormone imbalances, and enhanced cancer rates.
Even if sediment is pollutant-free, the debris can clog your RV plumbing system, especially the more sensitive components like water heaters and pumps. These clogs will reduce water pressure and eventually entail higher maintenance costs.
Sediment also reduces the efficiency of other water filter types. Carbon filters, for example, will clog up and quickly stop functioning if exposed to a heavy residue. UV light filters will struggle to see through the murkiness and disinfect bacteria and germs.
Note that carbon and sediment filters tend to overlap: they can perform both functions to an extent.
Who should purchase a sediment filter: Because sediment has already been removed from city water, you don’t need a sediment filter when filling up from the town water supply. Sediment filters are essential for anyone who fills up from another source, be it well water or a natural stream.
Our favorite sediment filter: We recommend the Waterdrop 10UA Water Filter System for optimal sediment filtration.
UV Water Filters
Bacteria and other pathogenic microorganisms are common in well water and streams; they can spread water-borne diseases upon consumption. Ultraviolet Light (UV) filters work by neutralizing microscopic organisms through exposure to powerful ultraviolet wavelengths. A strong dose of germicidal UV radiation scrambles the genetic code of unwanted microbes, thus preventing them from reproducing in your tank.
While UV filters can make non-potable water safe, it won’t improve the taste. Therefore, it’s worth using a UV filter in conjunction with another filter type.
Who should purchase a UV filter: Invest in a UV filter if you expect to rely on a water source that’s potentially contaminated with bacteria and other microbes.
Our favorite UV filter: We recommend the HQUA-OWS-6 Ultraviolet Water Purifier for a potent UV filtration system.
Reverse Osmosis Water Filters
Reverse Osmosis filters are the crème de la crème of the filtration world, although they’re not particularly practical for RV use.
The state-of-the-art technology pushes water through a semipermeable membrane to dissolve contaminants. A comprehensive system, it includes a pre-filter that removes sediment before it passes through the membrane and a carbon post-filter that neutralizes chlorine. The result is crystal clear water that tastes great and is free from both sediment and bacteria.
The catch is these systems are expensive and take up a tremendous amount of space. Reverse osmosis generates vast wastewater quantities—up to 80%—called brine that must be flushed away through a drainage tank. Consequently, you’ll chew through your freshwater faster than usual and will have to seek out suitable spots to dispose of the brine.
The best reverse osmosis filters for RVs come in a countertop system, so you only filter the water you intend to drink.
Who should purchase a reverse osmosis filter: Because reverse osmosis creates the cleanest and safest water possible, it’s ideal for RVers happy to sacrifice counter space for optimal water.
Our favorite reverse osmosis filter: We recommend the AQUA TRU Countertop Reverse Osmosis if you’d like to pursue RO filtration in your RV.
Installation Types
RV water filters are designed for use in one of three places: your hose (inline), under the sink, or on your countertop. The type of filter you use (carbon, sediment, etc.) and how much water you want to filter (the whole tank, sink only, etc.) determines the ideal installation type.
Inline / Canister Filters

Inline and canister filters are attached directly onto a hose and filter water as you pump it into your fresh water tank. As no installation is required—you simply clip it in place—these are the most common and cost-effective RV water filter types.
Because inline filters cleanse water before it enters your hold, it won’t help improve taste from algae and other contaminants lurking inside your freshwater tank.
The inline design only works well with carbon and sediment filtration. If you want to eliminate bacteria, you’ll need to upgrade to an under-the-sink or countertop filter.
Compatibility: Carbon and sediment
Filtration: Your entire freshwater tank
Our favorite inline filter: The Camco 40043.
Under-the-Sink Filters
Some water filters are installed directly underneath your sink to cleanse the water running out of that specific faucet. If you’re not handy with the tools, you may have to leave the installation to a professional.
It’s possible to install many inline filters underneath the sink when space permits. However, as you’re only filtering one specific faucet, these filter types won’t improve the water coming out of the shower and other taps.
Compatibility: UV, carbon, and sediment
Filtration: Filters water from one specific faucet (the sink) only
Our favorite under-the-sink filter: The Waterdrop 10UA Water Filter System
Countertop Filters
The countertop method is popular with reverse osmosis filters, which would be impractical to use on your entire RV water tank. A coffee machine-sized device sits on the countertop and filters the water intended for drinking and nothing else. You’ll need to top it up manually to ensure a constant supply of fresh drinking water.
Compatibility: Reverse osmosis
Filtration: Filters water in the holding tank on the countertop
Our favorite countertop filter: The AQUA TRU Countertop Reverse Osmosis
Micron Ratings
Water filter manufacturers use microns to describe how fine their sediment filters are. Devices with a low micron rating can filter out smaller particles and contaminants than those with a higher rating. For example, a micron-rating of 1 will remove particles 1 micron or larger, while a 20-rated unit will filter out particles 20 microns or larger.
Micron ratings can either refer to a precise or average measurement, making them challenging to compare.
Some water filters, such as the Beech Lane Dual Water Filter System use dual canisters to achieve a highly refined micron rating. Under-the-sink filters also tend to offer exceptional sediment filtration, such as the Waterdrop 10UA Water Filter System.
Gallons Per Minute
Gallons Per Minute (GPM) refers to the flow rate that water can pass through the filter. A low GPM will inhibit how fast you can refill your fresh water tank. Aim for at least 1.0 GPM, so you don’t have to wait around all day while topping up.
If you’re filtering water as it’s pumped directly out of the city water supply (you’ve got an external water hookup), look for a device with at least 2.5 GPM. In this instance, we recommend the Hydro Life HL-200 External Filter Kit.
Longevity and Replacement Costs
All water filter types require regular maintenance to continue functioning correctly. Carbon and reverse osmosis filters process a certain amount of water per canister, sediment filters eventually clog up, and UV filters require the occasional bulb change.
Maintenance and replacement costs have a massive effect on the overall price you’ll pay for a system. To help you understand how much a filter will cost in the long run, we include replacement information in our Quick Facts section of each review.
RV Water Filters FAQ
If you’ve still got a few questions about RV water filters, take a look through our FAQ.
What Is the Best RV Water Filter?
Although the best RV water filter depends on your budget and individual requirements, some models perform exceptionally well overall. The Camco 40043, for example, is our favorite water filter altogether for its simplicity, affordability, and effectiveness.
How Long Are RV Water Filters Good For?
The amount of time an RV water filter will last depends on how frequently you use it. For example, the Camco 40043 has a shelf life of 500 gallons. If you filter 40 gallons per week, you can expect this filter to last approximately 12 weeks.
How Often Do You Change RV Water Filters?
Most RV water filters should be replaced every three to six months. However, the exact shelf life depends on the type of filter and how often you use it. Consult the instruction manual for more information.
Do RV Water Filters Remove Chlorine?
Carbon water filters will remove the chlorine taste from a city water supply. If you’d like to remove sediment or bacteria, then you need to invest in a different filter as well (or instead).
Which Water Filter Removes the Most Contaminants?
Reverse osmosis is undoubtedly the most effective water treatment solution available. However, these large and expensive countertop units will only treat the water you manually pour into them; they’re laborious to use and only suitable for drinking water.
Why Does My RV Water Smell Bad?
If the water in your tank has been sitting idle for over two weeks, it will start to smell and obtain an unpleasant taste. Clean the tank with bleach, vinegar, or tank cleaner before thoroughly flushing it out.
How Often Should I Clean My RV Water Tank?
Over time, algae will begin to grow in your RV water tank and give the water an unpleasant taste. You should aim to clean the tank using an RV tank cleaner every six months if you’re living in it full time or after two weeks of disuse if you’re reclaiming it from storage.
How Can I Make My RV Water Taste Better?
Rather than using an RV tank cleaner, you could try putting vinegar and bicarbonate soda through the system. Add a quart of vinegar and a few tablespoons of bicarb soda to the tank, fill it with water, drive the RV to swish the mixture around, and let it sit there for a day or two before draining it.
Can I Filter Hot Water in an RV?
No. Filter water before it enters your RV hot water system, not after. Hot water can damage a water filter, while murky unfiltered water can damage an RV water heater.
Final Thoughts
Now you’ve made it to the end of our in-depth RV water filter guide, you’ve learned just about everything there is to know about this fantastic technology. You’ll never have to sip through murky or foul-tasting campsite water again—the perfect filtration solution is only a mouse click away.
Of course, you still need to grab an RV water filter for your rig. So take another gander through our top 10 recommendations to pick out the perfect product for you.
May your water be free of unsightly sediment for many happy camping trips to come. More