All of us are aware of the problems mold can create in our homes but what most people do not know is that this fungus can grow in your car as well, and their presence in your car is as dangerous as is in your home.
Molds are a fungus that grows almost anywhere and then spreads rapidly. Not only can you identify it by its discoloration, but its distinct odor also suggests its existence. If mold has grown in your car already then the small area certainly is going to be smelly. A question that surely must have emerged in your mind is how dangerous is the presence of mold in car.
How mold grows in the car and how dangerous is it?
Mold originates from humidity and moisture can well occur in a car, particularly if you have left your sunroof open in rainy days or there are any cracked windows, or if you have accidentally spilled liquid in your car. Just a little moisture is enough for mold to develop and it can grow further in just a few days.
It’s possible you might have inherited the problem or it could be due to a manufacturing defect. Locate the VIN Number and look up the VIN report online to learn about recalls, water damages and insurance claims.
As mold develops in your car, it can pave the way to various health issues. It can cause skin and respiratory irritation, asthma, lung infections, and many other problems. Some of the symptoms that can be experienced include wheezing, nasal congestion, skin and eye irritation, shortness of breath, and fever. This is why it is very important to get rid of the mold completely and the below-given tips can help you deal with this problem.
Start preparing
Before we learn the various ways to remove mold, first you need to get your car ready. If possible, move your car to an area where it can get enough sunlight. Now, open all the windows and doors and let it stay that way for about 15 minutes to eliminate as much mold spores as is possible.
You need to prepare yourself as well by wearing gloves, safety goggles, boots, an overall, and a particle mask. Now that both you and your car are ready you can follow the methods suggested below.
Get rid of large mold clusters
Use an old toothbrush and break up any big mold clusters that you find. With gentle and short strokes remove the clusters but try not to spread the spores any further. After brushing, eliminate loose mold spores using a wet-dry vacuum. Even after careful brushing, you will still find some spores left and to remove them you need to follow the below-given procedures, or use a related product.
Use white vinegar
You can use white vinegar to kill mold and prevent it from growing again. What is great is that this method is safe for all types of car seats.
You need to take distilled white vinegar, a clean cloth, a spray bottle, and a little tap water. Take two parts of water and eight parts of vinegar and mix it. Put this solution in a spray bottle and spray it directly on the mold-affected area and the area nearby. Let it stay that way for about 15 minutes and then using a wet-dry vacuum suck up any mold left. After vacuuming, let the car stay out for at least 15 minutes.
Use oil of cloves
Oil of cloves, together with killing molds, can also prevent the spores from growing by killing them as well. Oil of cloves is easily available, cheap, and is an expectorant, antiseptic, stimulant, and analgesic.
You just need a little oil of cloves and remember to dilute it properly. Using too much can irritate the skin of babies and young kids. To make the solution you need 1/4 teaspoon oil of cloves, a clean spray bottle, clean cloth, an old toothbrush, and 1-liter tap water. You can use white vinegar and baking soda for better results.
Use a little oil of clove, white vinegar, and baking soda to create a paste. With the help of an old toothbrush apply this paste everywhere in the interiors of your car and allow it dry for about 15 minutes, and wipe it off.
Use salt
In this case, you need non-iodized salt and water. Take a bucket of water, add the salt, mix it well, and pour the mixture in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto the mold covered areas and the surrounding area as well. Allow it to dry for a few minutes. If the area receives proper air circulation and direct sunlight the results will even be better. After you notice salt crusts have formed, use a vacuum or brush to remove them.
To Conclude –
Never ignore the problem of mold in car. You can follow any of these three methods as soon as you notice the infestation. If, however, these remedies for mold in car remediation do not help you much you need to seek professional help without delay. Alternatively, if you are tired of dealing with mold in the car you might be better off selling it to a company like JunkThatCar.com. This company will purchase the car and take the problems off your hands.
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