How to Remove Mildew Odors from a Car
Left the windows open in a rainstorm? The resulting mildew not only stinks--it can be indicative of mold in your vehicle. Getting at the source is the first step in returning your car's interior to its pre-shower state.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Baking Soda
- Window Cleaner
- Odor Absorber and/or Enzyme Cleaner
- Cotton Swabs
- Hair Dryer
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1
Try to find the source of the odor. Check rugs, upholstery and air conditioning vents for signs of mold or moisture.
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2
Thoroughly dry the affected area by soaking up any liquid with a towel, then use a hair dryer to dry it completely.
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3
Remove the floor mats and lay them out in the sun for a few days if the weather permits and if they are the source of the odor.
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4
Sprinkle baking soda over the floor and upholstery of affected areas. Work it into the rugs with your hands.
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5
Let it remain at least overnight and then vacuum.
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6
Use a commercial odor absorber or enzyme cleaner according to directions if some odor remains.
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7
Clean air conditioner vents with a cotton swab dipped in window cleaner. If you still smell mildew in your air conditioning system, try running the heater full-blast for 10 minutes to dry it out, leaving the windows open.
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8
Take the car for a professional interior cleaning if all else fails.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Charcoal briquettes help absorb moisture and odors. Put them under the seats and let them remain until odor is gone.
On warm days, leave the car windows open to let the car air out.
Floor mats are easily replaceable and it may be easier to replace them than to remove the mildew odor.
If the mildew smell remains in your air conditioning vents, try an odor- or mildew-eliminating spray (like Lysol) or a spray product especially made for air conditioning systems.
Be careful that the hair dryer doesn't overheat or come in contact with anything in the car that is not heat-resistant.
If moisture has penetrated into seat pads, you may have to replace them in order to eradicate the smell.
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Comments
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Damn leaky car... damn wet weather... good advice though!
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sergio702
Sep 27, 2007
Auto shops and auto detailers use ozone generators to remove odors from cars. I work for a smoke and odor remediation company and we use them to get rid of all kinds of odors and even mold. -
sergio702
Sep 27, 2007
Auto shops and auto detailers use ozone generators to remove odors from cars. I work for a smoke and odor remediation company and we use them to get rid of all kinds of odors and even mold.
