How to Remove Mildew From the Carpet in a Car

Clean out the mildew in your car to be healthier.

Mildew left in your car can leave a strong odor. The longer the mildew is trapped inside the car and doesn't get cleaned or aired out, the more dangerous it can become. Being exposed to untreated mildew can cause flu-like symptoms and feelings of nausea. By getting the mildew out of your car carpets, you will have a safer and cleaner vehicle.

Things You'll Need

• Sponge
• Dry detergent
• Damp cloth
• Vacuum with attachments
• Fungus spray

Instructions

1. Vacuum your car's carpet at a local car wash, or with a home vacuum with attachments. This will remove all the loose mildew or dirt that will make the mildew worse.

2. Rub dry detergent into the carpet with a moist sponge. Make sure to rub with the scrubbing side of the sponge, and clean all of the carpet in the vehicle.

3. Wipe off the carpet with a wet cloth. Try to get all of the detergent out of the carpet using the cloth.

4. Open the doors of the vehicle and allow the carpet to air-dry. It is best to position your vehicle so that the sun can shine onto the carpet. The sun can kill any mildew residue that wasn't removed or may be lingering in the air. Allow the carpet to completely dry, or the mildew may come back.

5. Spray fungus-removing spray onto the carpet to ensure a refreshing and clean scent and to prevent the mildew from coming back.

References

• MSUE: Removing Mildew
• FCS: Mildew Prevention and Removal
• Carpet Cleaning Tips: Mold and Mildew Removal