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How do I get rid of mold from car seats?

I accidentally left my car’s windows open during a huge rainstorm and my interior smells terrible. I aired it out and dried most of the areas, but I also noticed some mold on my passenger car seat. How do I get rid of it?

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Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Mold doesn’t just smell bad. It’s also catastrophic to your health if you continuously breathe it in. So, eradicating it from your car is important and an issue you need to address sooner rather than later.
Before you begin, make sure to take safety precautions by putting on personal protective equipment, including:
  • Latex or rubber gloves
  • A mask or respirator
  • Eyewear
Once you’re geared up, you’re ready to begin. Follow these steps to eradicate the mold:
  • Use a toothbrush or another soft-bristled brush on the affected area to loosen the spores.
  • Vacuum the seats and carpets to remove any of the spores.
  • Fill a spray bottle with one part vinegar to one part water.
  • Spray the affected area and let it soak for 15 minutes.
  • Vacuum the affected area.
  • Sprinkle borax or another type of fungicide on the seat.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes.
  • Vacuum again.
  • Dampen a towel and wipe the area to alleviate the vinegar smell.
And that should do it. You may also want to turn on your air conditioner. If you notice the same musty aroma, replace the cabin air filter, which is usually in or around your glove box.
Although
car insurance
doesn’t cover mold or damage when you leave your windows down during a rainstorm, it can protect you from other natural disasters in the future.
That’s why you should compare car insurance quotes regularly with
Jerry
. Sign up in just minutes to compare quotes from dozens of insurers to get the best rate on comprehensive insurance, which can protect you from the elements.
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