How to Clean Mold Out of a Car Seat

Mold is a fungus that thrives in areas with the right environmental requirements: moisture, darkness and warmth. Besides being unsightly and smelling rancid, mold has been linked to a number of different health and respiratory problems. This is especially concerning for children, as mold may wreak more havoc upon their younger immune systems than upon that of an adult. Mold on a car seat is a serious problem and should be handled immediately.

Things You'll Need

• Soft to medium bristle brush
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Spray bottle
• Soft clean cloth

Instructions

1. Remove the car seat from the car. Mold can spread very easily and it doesn't do much good to put the clean car seat back into a moldy car.

2. Use a soft to medium bristle brush to scrape away as much of the mold as possible.

3. Mix a solution of hydrogen peroxide and water in equal parts in a spray bottle.

4. Spray enough solution onto the area to saturate it and allow it to soak for 5 to 10 minutes.

5. Use a soft clean damp cloth dipped in warm soapy water to scrub the stain clean and use a clean damp cloth soaked in clean warm water to "rinse" the area.

6. Allow the car seat to air dry, outside, in the sunshine. Sunlight is great for killing mold spores.

Tips & Warnings

• Store the car seat in a cool dry place when not in use to prevent mold in the future. Test an indiscreet area of the car with the solution for colorfastness. Vinegar and color-safe bleach are good alternatives to hydrogen peroxide.

• Ventilate the area well when dealing with mold, and be sure to wear gloves and a mask.

References

• Exploring the Role of Mold in Asthma
• CDC Health Topic: Mold