How to Clean Mould Off Car Seats & Interior?

Key Takeaways

• Mould in your car creates both visible discolouration and a distinctive musty odour that requires immediate attention.
• White vinegar mixed with water is an effective natural solution for treating most mould issues on car interiors.
• Proper ventilation and moisture control are essential for preventing mould from returning after cleaning.
• Stubborn mould spots may require baking soda paste or clove oil treatments for complete removal.
• At Ordiniq, our Handheld Wired Vacuum Cleaner is specifically designed to extract moisture and mould spores from fabric surfaces, stopping them from coming back while keeping your vehicle interior healthy and clean.

Immediate Mould Detection and Response

Health Risks Linked to Mould

Mould isn't just an eyesore; it's a health hazard. Prolonged exposure to mould can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems. The risk is higher for those with asthma or weakened immune systems. Getting rid of mould quickly keeps your car clean and protects your health as well.

Signs of Mould Presence

Look for discolouration on fabric and a musty odour that lingers inside your car. These signs indicate that mould is present and action is needed.

Importance of Timely Action

Time is of the essence when dealing with mould. The longer it stays, the deeper it embeds itself into the fabric, making it harder to remove. When mould lingers it can lead to irreversible damage to your car's interior. 

Preparation Essentials

Having the right gear and supplies to clean mould off car seats makes cleaning easier and more effective. 

Protective Gear Needed

Wear rubber gloves and a mask to prevent inhalation of spores. Mould spores can be harmful, so protecting yourself is a priority.

Gather Required Supplies

Here's what you'll need:

• White vinegar
• Spray bottle
• Clean cloths
• Baking soda
• Clove oil (optional)

Step-by-Step Mould Cleaning Process

Initial Vacuuming and Clearing

Start by removing all items from your car. Vacuum the seats and carpets to remove loose mould spores and debris. Pay special attention to seams and crevices where mould can hide. This initial step helps prevent further spread and prepares the area for deeper cleaning.

Vacuuming the car first is the best way to remove mould build-up and prevent spreading. 

Using White Vinegar

White vinegar’s acidic nature helps break down mould particles and eliminate spores effectively. Here's how you can use it:

• Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Spray the solution generously on the affected areas, focusing on visible mould spots.
• Allow it to sit for at least 15 minutes to penetrate and kill the mould.
• Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth, ensuring you remove all the residue.

White vinegar has natural properties that make it a great choice for cleaning without harsh chemicals.

Applying Baking Soda for Stubborn Spots

Baking soda is another household staple that works wonders on stubborn mould spots. It acts as a mild abrasive, helping to scrub away mould without damaging the fabric.

To use baking soda:

• Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water.
• Apply the paste to the mouldy area and let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
• Gently scrub the area with a soft brush or cloth.
• Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

This method is particularly effective for deep-seated mould that vinegar alone might not tackle because it is gentle on fabrics while being tough on mould.

Benefits of Clove Oil

Clove oil is an optional but potent addition to your mould-fighting arsenal. Because of its antifungal properties, clove oil can help prevent mould from returning.

To use clove oil:

• Add a few drops of clove oil to your vinegar solution.
• Apply as previously described, ensuring the solution reaches all affected areas.
• Leave it to dry naturally for the best results.

Besides its mould-fighting capabilities, clove oil leaves a pleasant aroma, enhancing your car's interior environment.

Final Steps and Prevention Tips

Thorough Inspection Post-Cleaning

Check under seats, in the boot, and any other hidden areas. If you find any remaining spots, repeat the cleaning process as necessary. Use fans or leave the windows open to allow air circulation. Mould thrives in moisture, so keeping your car dry is key to prevention.

Prevent Future Mould Growth

• Regularly vacuum your car to remove dirt and moisture.
• Use moisture absorbers or silica gel packs to keep the interior dry.
• Fix any leaks or sources of moisture immediately.
• Keep windows slightly open when parked in safe areas to allow ventilation.

Why Ordiniq is Your Ultimate Solution for Mould Problems

We know that deep extraction is critical for eliminating mould at its source. Our Handheld Wired Vacuum Cleaner was specifically designed to tackle this challenge with its powerful suction and specialised attachments.

Our vacuum’s HEPA filtration system captures 99.97% of microscopic mould spores, pulling them from deep within your upholstery where standard vacuums can't reach. The targeted crevice tool extracts spores from seams and tight spots where mould commonly develops, while the upholstery brush gently lifts embedded particles without damaging delicate fabrics.

Unlike standard car vacs, our model features a sophisticated multi-stage filtration system that prevents recirculating harmful allergens back into your car. 

Looking for other car products? Check out our AutoPump to keep your tyres filled on the go, or our Tyre Repair Kit so you won’t be stuck with a flat again.

The extended 5-metre cable lets you thoroughly clean your entire vehicle without constantly shifting power sources, ensuring no mould-prone area goes untreated.

Join over 10,000 drivers who trust Ordiniq's proven solutions for a healthier, cleaner car interior. Contact us today to get your Handheld Wired Vacuum Cleaner!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should I clean my car to prevent mould growth? 

Regular vacuuming every 1–2 weeks and thorough interior cleaning monthly, especially during wet seasons, will help prevent mould development.

Can I use bleach to clean mould from my car seats? 

Bleach is not recommended for car upholstery as it can damage fabrics and discolour materials. White vinegar is safer and equally effective.

Why does mould keep returning even after cleaning? 

Persistent mould typically indicates an ongoing moisture source such as a leak, poor ventilation, or regularly wet items being left in the vehicle.

Is professional cleaning worth the cost for mould removal? 

Professional cleaning is worthwhile for extensive mould problems, valuable vehicles, or if you have respiratory conditions that make DIY cleaning risky.

How does Ordiniq help with mould prevention in vehicles? 

Our Handheld Wired Vacuum Cleaner features powerful suction specifically designed to remove microscopic mould spores from upholstery. The HEPA filtration system captures allergens that standard vacuums miss, while the specialised attachments reach deep into fabrics where mould originates.