Uber and Lyft passengers are pushing back against cars loaded with dozens of air fresheners that leave riders nauseous and chemically overloaded.
The Wall Street Journal and follow-ups describe dangling trees, under-seat pucks and vent clips blasting cherry and tropical scents with windows shut. New Orleans rider William Hargrave counted seven trees and felt carsick; Houston’s Jacque Keener estimated 20–30 and joked about new allergies. Complaints flood social media and petitions for fragrance-free options or bans. Uber says guidance aims for scent-free cars so the ride — not the perfume — is remembered; Lyft has urged ventilation or absorbers and offers paid Extra Comfort as a scent-free option. Drivers often say fresheners mask passenger odours.