Finding mold in your car's interior can be unsightly and hazardous to your health. Mold thrives in warm, damp environments, making vehicles particularly susceptible after water exposure from spills, rain, or high humidity.
How to get mold out of car interior: step by step
To remove mold from your car's interior, you must pay attention to detail and use the appropriate method. Various factors, such as a spilt drink, rain through an open window, or excessive humidity, can cause mold. Here’s how to get mold out of the car interior to safeguard your health.
Step 1 - Safety first
Before you begin any mold eradication, protect yourself by wearing:
- A face mask to avoid inhaling spores
- Rubber gloves
- Safety eyewear and protective clothes, such as overalls
Step 2 - Prepare your vehicle
- Park your automobile in a well-ventilated and sunny spot.
- Remove everything from the car, including the floor mats and seat coverings.
- Open all doors and windows to ventilate the interior of your vehicle.
- Vacuum vigorously to eliminate stray mold spores.
Step 3 - Select your cleaning method
Mold can be removed through various efficient solutions like:
White vinegar solution
- Mix together equal portions of water and white vinegar.
- Apply to afflicted areas using a spray bottle and let sit for 20 minutes.
- Scrub lightly and hoover completely.
Baking soda treatment
- Sprinkle baking soda on the moldy patches.
- Allow it to sit for 20 minutes and vacuum fully.
- For difficult areas, mix with vinegar to increase cleaning power.
Clove oil solution
- Combine ¼ teaspoon clove oil with 1 litre water.
- Apply in the afflicted areas and allow it to dry thoroughly.
- Wipe with a new cloth.
Step 4 - After cleaning care
- Using a wet/dry vacuum, remove any leftover moisture.
- Keep doors and windows open for proper drying.
- Consider using a dehumidifier to eliminate extra moisture.
- Inspect treated areas after 24-48 hours for any evidence of residual mold.
Prevention is always preferable to treatment. Some methods to avoid mold in cars are:
- Immediately mop up any spillage.
- Regularly check for leaks around windows and doors.
- Use moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers to dry your car and park in well-ventilated places.
- Keeping windows closed during rainy weather
Conclusion
If mold reappears or the infestation becomes serious, do not hesitate to seek expert assistance. Professional vehicle detailers use specialised equipment and materials to address challenging mold problems. They may also apply preventative treatments to prevent further mold development, keeping your vehicle in good condition for years.
Some comprehensive car insurance plans may cover mold damage caused by risks such as storm-related water damage or an unexpected accident. A robust policy provides financial coverage in the event of accidents, theft, third-party damage, and more.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.