Seven ways to prevent car mould

Car owners have been told to deep clean their vehicles every three weeks to prevent vehicles from being infested with mould.

Motoring experts at LeaseCar.uk are advising drivers to use staple household products like baking soda and white vinegar to stop mould growing inside their vehicles.

Most drivers have started to experience window condensation as temperatures have begun to dip.

If the condensation isn’t dealt with correctly, it can cause humidity levels to rise which welcomes the growth of nasty black mould.

The mould can start on window ledges which can spread across the car ceiling and eventually onto the seats.

The experts are advising Brits to spend 30 minutes every few weeks giving their cars a deep clean to prevent an outbreak and to aim to keep the inside temperature at an optimum 20ºC.

Tim Alcock, from LeaseCar.uk said: “Most of us see window condensation as a normal occurrence, but we don’t realise the potential it has to leave a car covered in mould if left to fester.

“That’s why we’re urging drivers to take the matter seriously to prevent an outbreak from happening and if any early signs of mould are spotted, to spend the time deep cleaning them.

“Giving the car a deep clean every few weeks for half an hour should suffice to solve the problem. Baking soda, white vinegar and keeping the vehicle temperature at an optimum temperature of 20ºC are all effective ways to fix the issue.”

How to stop mould growth in vehicles: 

1. Baking soda

Sprinkling baking soda on the seats and along the window frame will help absorb the excess moisture caused by condensation.

2. Let the breeze in

Opening windows to let fresh air in will help to naturally reduce the humidity in the car to prevent mould from forming.

3. Keep the indoor temperature at 20ºC

The ideal temperature to have the car interior at is around 20ºC. Monitor the fan and heating to make sure it stays at the optimum temperature to prevent creating an environment which welcomes mould growth.

4. White vinegar

A mixture of distilled water and three-quarters white vinegar will help to quell any starting signs of mould growth. It may take an hour or two for the substance to work. Make sure to wipe it off afterwards with a clean cloth.

5. Vacuum the seats

Grab a hoover to suck up any loose mould spores that may be lurking in the seats. It’s also worth vacuuming the ceiling to make sure it’s not lingering within the material.

6. Use tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an effective way to kill mould as it works as a natural antifungal substance. Pour a few drops onto a microfibre cloth and wipe down the entire interior.

7. Repeat the deep clean process every three weeks

 Keep on top of the deep clean process to prevent the mould from growing back as window condensation will occur throughout winter. A 30-minute deep clean should do the trick to keep the mould at bay.