Oh No! It Rained Last Night..And You Left Your Windows Down!

What a horrific sight to see the moment you walk out the door to head to work, right?!

Fortunately, we’ve got a few tips compiled from the pros on water damage restoration about how to clean out your wet car!

• Get the excess out. The less water you have in your car, the faster it will dry. Use a wet/dry shop vac to help suck out serious amounts of water (1 inch or more), otherwise, soak up as much as you possibly can with towels, clothes, or whatever absorbent material you have available. Be sure to check all the tight/concealed spaces of your vehicle interior like between and under seats, in the center consoles, under armrests, etc.
• Fans are crucial. Moisture is the enemy because lingering moisture means mold growth. Use fans positioned to blow across the floorboards, on seats – anywhere the moisture is still evident. The more airflow, the better. Turn your cars heater on the highest setting for a while if you’re on the road for a temporary fix. If you have access to a dehumidifier, you’ll have the best chance of removing more moisture.
• Avoid mold. Prevention is key, but sometimes the onset is unstoppable. Use double action products like baking soda that will help to absorb both the moisture and help reduce the odor issue.
• Whatever you do, do not ignore moisture in your vehicle. Serious mold growth is fast and damaging and takes professional removal tools to safely and properly remove.

Essentially, dry your car out by any means possible! Those little pine trees won’t cut it – mold possesses certain health hazards and lets be serious, no one likes to ride in a stinky car.

Oh, and don’t forget to roll those windows up! 🙂