Spilling liquids and leaving the windows open on rainy days can all cause mold to grow inside your vehicle. Follow this guide to properly remove mold from your car, safely and effectively.
Removing Mold From Your Car Tips
Always start this process by completely cleaning out the inside of your car. Gather any items that may be wet, clean them and make sure there is no mold present. Next, vacuum the interior of the car to rid the space of any unwanted debris.
DO NOT tackle the removal process without the proper safety gear. Wear the following items: overalls, rubber boots, a face mask, rubber gloves and goggles. You will also want to have your car in a sunny area with the windows rolled down.
1. Use White Vinegar
Distilled white vinegar can actually work wonders against mold growth. Because this substance is mildly acidic, vinegar will kill mold spores and greatly reduce their chances of returning. White vinegar can be used on numerous surface types, including vinyl and leather.
Follow these steps:
- Take the vinegar bottle and dilute it with water.
- You can use straight white vinegar to treat exceptionally moldy spots.
- Apply this mixture to the mold patches with a spray bottle or cloth.
- Give the troubled area a light scrub and let the mixture sit for approximately 20 minutes.
- Use a wet-and-dry vacuum cleaner to pick up the dead mold.
2. Non-Iodized Salt
Saltwater will dehydrate mold spores by drawing water out of their membranes. This will effectively starve and kill the spores. However, you can’t do this simply by adding salt alone, it needs to be in a solution.
Follow these steps:
- Vacuum the area first to get rid of the surface mold.
- Mix the salt in a bucket of water.
- Ensure that the solution is concentrated enough before applying it.
- Use a spray bottle or sponge to apply the saltwater on the surface.
- Try to leave your car in direct sunlight, which will allow the surface to dry out.
- This will likely leave a crusty residue.
- Use a vacuum cleaner to scrub off the mold remains.
- You can use water while running the vacuum cleaner.
3. Clove Oil
You may know clove oil for its ability to relieve toothaches and digestive issues, but it can help fight mold, as well. Clove oil will attack mold spores and prevent future growth. You will only need a quarter teaspoon of clove oil to add to a liter of water.
Follow these steps:
- Start by vacuuming the affected area.
- Mix the clove oil to create a solution, then apply a limited amount of the solution to the mold.
- Clean the space once it is completely dry.
4. Add Baking Soda
When it comes to mold and mildew, baking soda is great at fighting growths. Plus, this agent is great as an air freshener.
Follow these steps:
- Sprinkle the baking soda on the moldy spots and let it sit for twenty minutes.
- The baking soda soaks up the excess moisture, leaving behind a powdery residue.
- You can combine the baking soda with white vinegar for stronger results.
5. Finish With Special Cleaning Agents
Of course, you can invest in some specialty cleaning products to rid your car of mold. Just pay close attention to the ingredients, as some of these agents can contain toxic chemicals. Ensure the products are safe for specific surfaces and follow the instructions precisely.
When Should You Call A Professional For Mold Removal?
For over a decade Restoration Services Ltd, located in Phoenix, Arizona, has been a mold remediation contractor. Having started as a general insurance contractor performing remediation of water and flood damage, it was a natural transition to become a certified mold remediation contractor to offer greater value and service to our customers.
Over the past 15+ years we have developed great relationships with a number of highly recognized environmental companies in order to enhance our eco awareness and apply that awareness to our everyday practices. These relationships have been greatly beneficial for both sides as Restoration Services Ltd. has reliable sources for certified testing and the environmental companies have a dependable, knowledgeable mold remediation company as a resource. We are the mold removal and remediation experts you have been looking for.
Conclusion
Properly removing mold from your car may seem difficult, but it is certainly possible. With the right cleaning method and safety gear in place, you should be able to perform this job all by yourself. Turn to the professionals at Restoration Services LTD if the task appears too daunting.
Free Mold Remediation Cost Estimates In Phoenix, Arizona
If you are wondering how much your water damage repair service will cost, Restoration Services LTD provides free water damage cost estimates throughout the entire Phoenix valley of Arizona. Give us a call today or use our contact form to get in touch with us.
CONTACT US TODAY! CALL 602-309-1116 FOR VALLEYWIDE SERVICES, AND CALL 602-867-7771 FOR STATEWIDE SERVICES!
