Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers | April 1, 2025 | DUI / DWI

How Long Does Alcohol Stay On Your Breath

If you have been drinking, it is no secret that the smell of alcohol will be on your breath. Most people know that if they are pulled over, they could be subject to a breathalyzer. Having the smell of alcohol on your breath only increases the odds that officers will conduct further investigation for a DWI.

The only thing that will truly eliminate the smell of alcohol on your breath is time. Your body must metabolize and get rid of the alcohol, and that process takes time to occur. Below, you can learn more about how long alcohol will stay on your breath after drinking.

How Long Will My Breath Smell Like Alcohol?

If you have been drinking alcoholic beverages, your breath can smell like alcohol for hours. In some cases, it may take more than 12 hours for the smell to go away. The reason for this is the science behind the way your body processes alcohol, also known as alcohol metabolism.

Generally, the liver can metabolize alcohol at a rate of about one drink per hour. Of course, this can vary depending on:

  • Age
  • Sex
  • Weight
  • Food consumption

Most people can consume alcohol much quicker than it can be metabolized by the body. For this reason, alcohol may accumulate in the bloodstream. In some cases, it can take hours to clear all the alcohol from your body. According to the Cleveland Clinic, alcohol may be present on a breath test for up to 24 hours after consumption.

This is why it is best to avoid driving after drinking alcohol. The smell may stay on your breath for hours after drinking, especially if you have consumed multiple drinks.

Ways to Get Alcohol Off Your Breath

The only true way to get alcohol off your breath is to let your body remove it. This process takes time. It is not uncommon for someone who has been drinking the night before to have alcohol on their breath the next morning. The smell of alcohol on your breath can be used by law enforcement as evidence of recent drinking, even if you refuse to take a breathalyzer.

How to Cover Up Alcohol On Your Breath

Some people believe they may be able to cover up the smell of alcohol on their breath. This may be done for a variety of reasons, but here are a few methods that may help you mask the smell of alcohol on your breath.

  • Brush and floss your teeth: Removing alcohol-soaked food particles from your mouth can cause the smell of alcohol to dissipate.
  • Take a shower: Taking a shower can wash the smell of alcohol away, but make sure that you wait until after your body has gotten rid of all the alcohol. Otherwise, the smell may return immediately after your shower.
  • Chewing gum: Many people chew gum to help mask the smell of alcohol. The smell of the gum can help with masking, and the increased saliva production can also help to wash away excess alcohol in your mouth.
  • Using mouthwash: If you decide to use mouthwash to mask alcohol on your breath, make sure you use an alcohol-free mouthwash. Otherwise, the smell may return.

Again, the only true way to get alcohol off your breath is to wait until your body flushes it all from your system. Some of these techniques may help with masking the odor, but do not count on any of these to help you pass a breathalyzer if you have been drinking.

Should I Take a Breathalyzer?

If you have been pulled over or arrested for driving while intoxicated, you may be asked to take a breathalyzer. Refusing to take the test can result in some serious penalties, like an automatic license suspension. If your blood alcohol content is lower than the legal limit, you should be OK to take the breathalyzer.
However, after taking the test, you can advise law enforcement that you wish to exercise your right to an independent alcohol test. You should also request a criminal defense attorney. Even though a first offense DWI is a misdemeanor, it can carry some stiff fines and penalties. The best choice is to simply not drive if you have been drinking.

For more information, please contact the DWI/DUI law firm of Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers for a consultation. Give us a call at (682) 777-3336 or visit our convenient location:

We serve the surrounding areas of Tarrant County and Fort Worth, TX.

Cofer Luster Criminal Defense Lawyers
604 E 4th St Ste 101
Fort Worth, TX 76102