Mould or Mildew inside of your car?
Mould is a common problem that affects various areas of our lives, including our cars. If you’ve noticed a musty smell or visible signs of mould in your vehicle, it’s important to take action immediately. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mould inside your vehicle, including how to find it, why it’s dangerous, the causes, how to prevent it, and tips for removing it from your car’s interior.
Finding Mould in Your Car
Mould can grow anywhere in your vehicle, but it’s most commonly found in areas that are prone to moisture, such as the upholstery, carpets, seat belts, air conditioning system and the boot area. Some of the signs of mould in your car include a musty smell, visible mould growth on the surfaces, and can cause allergic reactions like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes.
Why is Mould Dangerous?
Mould can be dangerous for both your car and your health. It can cause damage to the interior of the car, additionally, mould can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory problems, particularly in individuals with pre-existing health conditions such as asthma. Toxic black mould can also cause fatigue, vomiting, nose and lung bleeds, nausea and headaches.
Causes of Mould Inside a Vehicle
Mould requires moisture to grow, so the most common causes of mould inside a vehicle are water leaks or condensation. Here are some other common reasons that can enable mould growth in a car.
- Spilt liquids that are not cleaned up correctly
- Windows left slightly open for periods of time
- Storage of a wooden item over a long period that catches fungus
- Humid environment
- A car parked in a damp/wet storage area
- Wet or damp clothes stored in the vehicle
- Damage due to flooding
Preventing Mould Growth in Your Vehicle
Preventing mould growth in your vehicle starts with good maintenance habits. Here are some tips for preventing mould from growing in your car:
- Regularly clean and vacuum your vehicle’s interior to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can contribute to moisture buildup.
- Use a dehumidifier in your car to keep the air dry and prevent moisture from accumulating.
- Avoid leaving wet or damp items in your car for an extended period.
- Fix any leaks or water damage promptly to prevent moisture from accumulating in your car.
- Open your car windows or use the air conditioning to promote air circulation and prevent humidity buildup.
- Ensure windows and doors are shut properly.
- If possible do not eat or drink inside of the car, this will prevent liquid spills and ensure no food crumbs have fallen onto the floor or seats.
- Keep you car clean and dry.
Removing Mould from Your Vehicle’s Interior
If you’ve discovered mould in your car, it’s essential to take action immediately to prevent further growth and spread. Here are some tips for removing mould from your car’s interior:
- Wear gloves, a mask, and protective eyewear to avoid inhaling mould spores.
- Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose mould spores and debris from the affected areas.
- Use a professional mould cleaner on the affected areas thoroughly, do not use bleach as this will damage the cars Interior.
- Allow your car’s interior to dry completely before closing the doors and windows.
- Dispose of any contaminated materials, such as seat covers or carpets, that cannot be effectively cleaned.
- Try and keep the car interior warm as possible.
In conclusion, mould is a problem that affects many areas of our lives, including our vehicles. It’s essential to prevent mould from growing in your car and address any growth promptly to prevent further damage and health hazards. By following the tips in this post, you can keep your car safe and mould-free.
JG Valeting offer a mould removal and sanitisation valet. Please get in contact straight away if you require this service.
