Car owners and passengers should prioritize their comfort, health, and safety. Generally, the vehicle’s hygiene is the main contributor to the occupants’ convenience. However, mold and mildew are major culprits that cause foul odors, discomfort, and respiratory allergies to occupants of the vehicle. Mold growth in your car can be due to many factors. In most situations, mold growth is due to humid conditions and leaving vehicles closed for long.
While some mold species pose no danger apart from unsightly aesthetics and foul smell, other types, specifically black mold, are lethal. Unfortunately, differentiating these types is difficult, and you should generally consider removing any mold growth. Below are some solutions that can remove mold growth from your car.
- White Vinegar
White vinegar is a popular solution with several applications in home settings. Cleaning your vehicle with white vinegar removes mold and reduces the chances of regrowth. However, using vinegar in its natural solution isn’t recommended. To use vinegar, mix it with tap water in a ratio of 8:2 (8 parts of vinegar vs. 2 parts of water).
Follow the following steps;
- You can use a spray bottle or a damp cloth to apply the mixture to areas with mold growth.
- Spray or dampen the area until it gets soaked
- Allow it to soak for fifteen or more minutes
- Remove the residue using a wet-dry vacuum and dispose any collected spores properly.
- Leave the car doors open to allow fresh air into the car. This dilutes the pungent vinegar smell. Use an air freshener if the smell persists.
- Clove Oils
Clove oils are another inexpensive option used to remove mold from automobiles. You can easily purchase clove oil from local pharmacies or online retail stores. However, make sure that you read user directions before using. Some users have reported developing skin allergies from this solution.
Apart from safety handling, you should keenly dilute the solution. Make sure that the mixture is 1% concentrated. To achieve this, a fourth teaspoon of clove oil should be mixed with one liter of water. You should apply the water-clove oil mixture over the area with mold growth and allow it to dry. The longer you leave the solution in the affected area, the better the result.
- Non-Iodized Salt
The process of removing mold using non-iodized salt closely resembles that of white vinegar. However, unlike vinegar, where you can use a spray bottle to create the solution, a bucket works better for this option. Follow the following steps;
- Fill a bucket with water and pour non-iodized salt. Mix the two until the solution appears uniform.
- Apply the mixture over the area with mold growth and at least one- foot around this area. You can use spray bottles or brush for application.
- Leave it to dry. Drying can occur faster if the area is exposed to sunlight.
- Open your doors or windows to ensure good ventilation.
- Salt crystals will start forming after some time. Use a vacuum cleaner to brush off the crystals and residue.
Conclusion
Mold growth in your car occurs if various favorable conditions are present. For instance, if there is liquid on surfaces or the floor, wooden items, a humid environment, damp clothes, or vehicle damage caused by flooding/water damage, you should expect mold, mildew, and other fungus growth.
That said, you should adopt several measures to prevent mold from reappearing. Effective measures include using a dehumidifier, ensuring that doors and windows are shut properly, and avoiding eating or drinking from your car. Generally, ensure that your vehicle is clean and dry all the time.
