header Car Insurance

How to Stop Mould from Growing in Your Car?

By Juhi Walia
26 October 2022, 11:23 AM

Following are some pointers that can help you determine which method is the best for removing mould from your car. The best way to clean your vehicle is to choose the one that is most suitable for you. Make sure you have a car insurance policy and get the vehicle treated.

To determine if the methods described below produce a reaction, a sample area can be tested before applying them. If you want to ensure that the material won't react adversely with the solution, dab it on the edge of the seat while you clean it.

Mould Removal from Car Seats, Carpets, or Interiors

1) White Vinegar

In addition to removing mould, distilled white vinegar also reduces its chances of returning. White vinegar must be mixed with tap water in a ratio of 8:2 to clean the interiors of your car. Using a spray bottle will make it easier to apply.

You can use a clean cloth instead of a spray bottle if you don't have one. Get a car insurance policy and use the same to get treatment for mould.

After spraying the solution on the affected area or soaking a cloth, allow it to soak for approximately fifteen to twenty minutes.

If you are worried about the vinegar odour, you can use an air freshener afterwards. To remove the spores from the area, use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner. The vinegar smell will disappear once the car's doors are opened and the site is allowed to dry. 

2) Non-iodised Salt

Non-iodised salt can be substituted for vinegar in this method. The only thing you need for this method is a bucket. Put the non-iodised salt in a bucket of water and fill it with water. The application can be accomplished with either a spray bottle or a brush.

It would be best to spray the solution on the affected area approximately a foot away from it. It is essential to let the area dry. Direct sunlight exposure would be ideal. Make sure the ventilation is adequate.

As a result, salt crusts will form more easily. A vacuum cleaner can be used to remove them. 

3) Oil of Cloves

Oil of cloves, another inexpensive option, can be used to remove mould from a car's interior. Pharmacies sell this product quickly. The concentration should be diluted to 1% so as not to cause skin allergies. One litre of water with one-fourth teaspoon of clove oil. Car insurance should be taken to deal with such problems in depth.

As with salt, it can be applied and cleaned similarly. If you keep the solution on the affected area for longer, you will achieve better results. After the first instance, repeat the procedure and let the area dry for a few days.

4) Dish Soap

You can also clean car seats and other areas using the dish soap's froth. Lather the area with water and soap and then wipe it with a clean cloth. Using a scrubber, remove any mould from the site. A towel can be used to dry the area.

5) Baking Soda

Baking soda can also be used instead of dish soap. Use the correct amount - 14 teaspoons in 8 ounces (227.33 ml). The solution should be applied and scrubbed. After completing the task, wipe the area and allow it to dry. 

Cleaning Mould: What Do You need?

The following items can help you remove mould from your car while you clean it:

Material – Select an appropriate method and obtain the material. Baking soda, for instance.

Vacuum Cleaner – A wet/dry vacuum cleaner or a regular vacuum cleaner.

Equipment – Depending on method and availability, spray bottles, bottles, or buckets.

Cloth – Make sure you have two clean clothes. Apply the solution with one hand and wipe the area with the other.

Protective Gear – Make sure you wear gloves and masks to ensure your safety.

When is Mould a Dangerous Condition in a Car?

Mould can cause health problems if allowed to grow. The following section will elaborate on that. Here is a guide to helping you find mould in your car.

Step 1 – Place the vehicle in direct sunlight from its garage or shade.

Step 2 – Close the doors and roll down the windows. Make sure the car gets rid of any foul odours and air. Fresh air should be allowed to enter the house.

Step 3 – Remove everything that is damp or causes dampness in your car. In this case, floor mats are an example.

Step 4 – Check the car for mould everywhere - seatbelts, dashboards, ceilings, trunks, everywhere. Circular patches in different colours can typically be identified as it.

Wrapping Up

You must remove all the moisture from your vehicle once the mould is gone to prevent its recurrence. You can eliminate extra humidity from your car by using a dehumidifier. When the weather is too cold for the dehumidifier to work, you can use fans and blowers if you don't have one. 

Read more -

FAQs

1. Why does mould keep growing in my car?

If your car is left open on a rainy day, or if you spill any liquid on the floor, mould will quickly grow, caused by damp conditions and a warm environment.

2. What kills mould in a car?

You can kill mould inside your car using white vinegar, which is easy to use and chemical-free. By essentially burning the mould, this acid kills it and prevents it from returning. The vinegar must be mixed with water and poured into a spray bottle. Two parts water to eight parts vinegar is a good ratio. Car insurance will help you get your car serviced professionally too.

3. Can you get sick from mould in your car?

Having mould in your vehicle can cause health problems if you are exposed to it for an extended period.

Health risks associated with mould in cars include irritations of the respiratory and skin systems, infections of the lungs, asthma, nasal congestion, wheezing, fevers, and shortness of breath.

4. How long does it take for mould to grow in a car?

When the right conditions are met, mould can grow in a car in about 12 hours. In most cases, you will smell mildew after six to ten hours.  

5, Can I leave the vinegar on the mould overnight?

A spray bottle filled with full-strength white distilled vinegar can be used to clean a small area of mould safely and effectively. After it has sat for an hour, wipe away the mould with a soft cloth.

Car Insurance banner
Car Insurance

Starting at only ₹6 per Day*

Enter your details to buy Car Insurance
By proceeding you agree to Terms & Conditions
Proceed without car number