How to Get Rid of Mould on a Car?

Mould in cars is one of those things that you don’t really think about until you’re hit with that musty smell or spot those unsightly patches growing on the surfaces of your seats or carpets. Not only does it look and smell bad, but it can also pose serious health risks and damage your car's interior if left unchecked.
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In this blog, we’ll explore why mould inside a car forms, the risks it poses, how to get rid of it and, most importantly, how to prevent it from coming back. Whether you're dealing with a small patch or a full-blown mould invasion, there are steps you can take to restore your car to a clean, fresh state. Read on to find out how!

Why There's Mould on Car?

Mould is a type of fungus that forms in damp and humid conditions. It loves dark, moist spaces, which makes your car an ideal breeding ground if moisture isn’t properly managed. It can develop from something as simple as leaving a damp towel in the back seat, accidentally spilling a drink and not cleaning it up properly or simply our humid Aussie weather.

Addressing mould on the car as you spot it is crucial to prevent it from spreading and causing damage to your car’s interior. Upholstery, carpets and even air conditioning systems can all be affected if mould isn’t dealt with properly. Regular checks and proper ventilation can go a long way in keeping your car mould-free and smelling fresh.

Is Mould Inside a Car Dangerous?

Having mould inside your car isn’t just an eyesore or an annoyance, it can pose serious health risks. Mould releases tiny spores into the air, which can trigger allergies, irritate your respiratory system and cause issues like sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes. For people with asthma or sensitivities, mould exposure can make symptoms even worse and lead to long-term discomfort. Furthermore, that musty smell? It’s not exactly the kind of air freshener anyone wants while driving.
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Aside from the health concerns, mould can also take a toll on your car’s interior. It can cause stains on seats and carpets, weaken fabrics and even damage the air conditioning system. If ignored, it can become harder to remove and the odour still lingers no matter how much air freshener you use.

Reasons for the Growth of Mould on Car

Here are some of the most common reasons why mould might be growing in your car:

Parking in a Damp Garage

If your garage is prone to dampness or leaks, moisture can easily creep into your car, creating a perfect breeding ground for mould.

Parking in Areas with Poor Ventilation

Garages that have poor airflow can trap moisture inside your car. Over time, this dampness creates the perfect conditions for mould to grow and spread.

Leaving Wet Objects Inside the Car for Too Long

Forgotten wet gym clothes, umbrellas or even a damp towel after a beach day can introduce moisture and encourage the growth of mould on cars, especially if they sit there for days.

Flooding or Water Exposure

If your car has been exposed to heavy rain, floods or even a leaking sunroof, trapped water can seep into carpets and seats, the lingering water can seep into carpets and upholstery, providing mould with a lot of moisture to grow on

Accidental Spills on Seat or Floor

Spilt drinks or food might seem harmless but can leave behind damp spots that, if not cleaned up properly, provide the ideal breeding ground that encourages mould growth.

Opening Windows During Rainy Weather

It might feel nice to get some fresh air, but cracking the window open when it’s raining can let moisture sneak into the car’s interior, leading to damp seats and carpets.

High Humidity Levels Inside the Car

Sometimes, even the air itself can cause issues. If the humidity is high, condensation can form inside the car and create damp spots where mould can flourish.

How to Spot Mould Inside Car

Not sure if mould has taken over your car? Keep a lookout for these few telltale signs:

Musty Odour

If your car has a persistent, damp and earthy smell that won’t go away, it’s likely mould.

Discolouration on Interior Surfaces

Keep an eye out for green, black or white spots appearing on seats, carpets or even seatbelts. These patches are a clear sign that mould has settled in.

Allergic Reactions

If you find yourself sneezing, coughing or experiencing itchy eyes every time you’re in the car, mould spores in the air could be the culprit.

Patches of Mould

Sometimes, mould growth is easy to spot. Check corners, under-seats and fabric surfaces for visible clusters of mould.

How to Get Rid of Mould in Your Car

Once you’ve spotted mould, acting fast is key to stopping it from spreading further. Try these effective solutions to get rid of mould in car:

Proper Ventilation

Start by airing out your car. Open the doors and windows to let fresh air circulate and help dry out any lingering moisture.

Remove Contaminated Items

If you have heavily mould-infested mats or fabrics that are beyond saving, it’s best to get rid of them to prevent further mould spread.

Use Vacuum Cleaner with HEPA Filter

A vacuum with a HEPA filter can safely remove mould spores without spreading them into the air.

Clean Using Appropriate Cleaning Materials

Use mould-specific cleaners or a mix of vinegar and water to scrub down affected areas. These solutions help break down mould safely without damaging your car’s interior.

Professional Interior Detailing

If the mould problem is too big to handle, getting professional help is the best option. Experts have the right tools and products to deep-clean your car's interior and ensure it’s mould-free.

Get Rid of Mould in your Car for Good

Cleaning up mould inside car is one thing, but preventing it from coming back is just as important. Follow these steps to keep your car mould-free:

Minimise Moisture

Keep your car dry by checking for leaks, wiping down wet surfaces and avoiding damp items inside.

Roll Up All Windows

Always double-check that your windows are fully closed, especially during wet weather, to prevent rain or moisture from getting in.

Avoid Eating in the Car

Food and drink spills can create a breeding ground for mould, so it’s best to avoid eating in the car whenever possible.

Clean and Disinfect Your Car’s Interior

Make it a habit to regularly clean your car, especially seats, carpets and air vents with disinfectants to stop mould before it even starts.

Prevent the Growth of Mould on Car with Expert Maintenance and Detailing

Dealing with mould on a car can be frustrating, but the good news is, it doesn't have to be a stressful problem. With the right care and a little help from the pros, you can keep your car fresh, clean and mould-free for good! Follow the regular cleaning and smart tips we’ve outlined above to keep mould at bay, but, above all, professional help is the best way to get rid of mould in car thoroughly.
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For professional mini detailing and full detailing services that are highly effective for professional mould removal, you can rely on our team at Fully Slick Mobile Detailing. We don't just clean, we restore your car’s interior to its pristine condition, eliminate mould and unpleasant odours and protect your surfaces from future issues. Our additional services also ensure your car stays fresh and hygienic.

Book your detailing service today and enjoy a cleaner, healthier car that looks and smells as good as new!