Dealing with mold in your car carpet is never fun. The smell sticks, the stains spread, and it feels like no matter how much you scrub, it just keeps coming back.
At Soapy Shark Car Wash, we hear this all the time from drivers who just want a fresh, clean interior again. The good news is that you do not need to live with it, or spend a fortune to fix it. With the right approach, you can get mold out of your car carpet quickly and keep it from returning.
In this guide, we will walk you through ten simple, effective methods that actually work, so you can breathe easy every time you get behind the wheel.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to get Mold Out of Car Carpet
Here are the ten simple steps to completely remove mold in car carpet:
Step 1: Dry Out the Area
To keep your carpet clean, start by removing any moisture. Blot spills, use fans, or turn on the air conditioning. Park in the sun with the windows slightly open to help reduce dampness and prevent mold. This step gets your carpet ready for cleaning.
Step 2: Vacuum and Clean Thoroughly
Vacuum your carpet thoroughly to get rid of dirt, debris, and loose mold spores. Focus on hidden areas like under the seats and along door edges. A vacuum with a HEPA filter is best because it captures tiny spores and keeps your car interior cleaner for longer.
See our detailed guide on how to wash car carpet.
Step 3: Sprinkle Baking Soda
Baking soda helps remove moisture and leftover residue that mold needs to expand. Sprinkle it on the area and let it sit for about 15 minutes before vacuuming it up.
Step 4: Apply White Vinegar Spray
Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and water. Lightly spray the areas with mold. The vinegar helps break down the mold spores. After applying, let the area dry completely.
Step 5: Treat with Hydrogen Peroxide
Mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide with five parts water. Spray the mixture onto the affected areas lightly and let it sit for a few hours. Test a small area to ensure it doesn’t discolor the carpet.
Step 6: Clean with Car Carpet Shampoo
Use a car carpet shampoo such as 3D Upholstery & Carpet Shampoo. Follow the instructions and scrub with a soft brush. Leave the doors open or park in the sun to dry completely. This helps remove mold particles.
If you want to get mold out of a car carpet using a shampoo, this short visual illustrates step-by-step methods for professional-quality removal.
Step 7: Let Sunlight and Fresh Air Come
After you clean your carpet, make sure it dries completely. Open the windows or use a fan to help air circulate and let sunlight into the room. This step helps prevent mold from growing due to leftover moisture.
Step 8: Invest in Dehumidifier
If your car is damp, use a small portable dehumidifier overnight. It will remove extra moisture and help protect the interior.
Step 9: Place Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal absorbs excess moisture, helping to prevent mold from forming in corners and under seats.
Step 10: Consult a Professional
If mold keeps coming back, professional cleaners can help. They use tools like pressure washers, safe chemicals for cars, and ozone generators (like the Avura Micro3) get mold and mildew out of car carpet and interior.
How to Prevent Mold from Coming Back
Removing mold is just one part of the job. These methods will help stop it from coming back in your car. Here’s how to do it:
-
Improve Ventilation
Check the vents and ensure air is circulating. After cleaning, run the A/C or heater to dry the air and prevent damp spots.
-
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean surfaces once a week and vacuum carpets regularly. Use Total Interior Cleaner & Protectant to remove dirt and add a protective layer against moisture.
-
Inspect for Water Leaks
Check the windows, sunroofs, doors, and seals for water leaks. Even small leaks can let moisture build up and lead to mold growth. Fix any leaks as early as possible.
-
Control Moisture in Carpets and Upholstery
Remove the wet floor carpets immediately and dry up spills quickly. Use a small fan or dehumidifier if it’s still damp.
-
Use Protective Products
Use cleaners like Nonsense All-Purpose Cleaner and Lightning Fast Stain Extractor to remove grime where mold can grow. Keeping these things in your detailing kit prevents mold outbreaks.
Once you’ve removed the mold and cleaned your carpet, it’s important to maintain a fresh interior. For general fresh-car smell tips, see our guide to keep your car smelling good all the time.
To Conclude
Mold does not stand a chance if you stay on top of it with the right steps. Tackle the problem fast, keep the carpets dry, and your car will thank you with that fresh, clean feel every driver loves!
For the best care and protection for your car, visit Soapy Shark Car Wash today. We will take care of the complex tasks, so your car will be clean, free of mold, and ready for every drive.