How to Deal with Moldy Smell Caused by Water in the Car
3 Answers
The first reaction when detecting an unpleasant odor is to ventilate the car. If the smell is strong, open all the windows before driving each time. If possible, open all the car doors (without disturbing others) and clean the interior while doing so. Use effective absorbents like bamboo charcoal, activated carbon, or scented sachets, which can be purchased at supermarkets. Remember to replace them after a certain period.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and the musty smell from water inside the car is particularly common, mainly due to poor door sealing or clogged sunroof drainage holes, which allow rainwater to seep in and cause mold growth. The key to dealing with it is to quickly identify the leak and thoroughly dry the car: park it in the sun for ventilation and use a large fan to blow air under the carpets and seats for several hours. Then clean the interior—I recommend using a car-specific mold remover spray and scrubbing the stained areas with a brush, or making a DIY cleaner with white vinegar and baking soda, which is both cost-effective and eco-friendly. If the smell persists, be sure to check and replace the cabin air filter to prevent bacteria from spreading and causing allergic reactions. I usually keep a few packs of activated charcoal in the car to absorb moisture and prevent mold, and I regularly inspect the seals to avoid recurring water accumulation. Remember, the musty smell doesn’t just affect your mood—it can also harm your health, so prompt action is essential.
I just bought a new car and encountered a moldy smell inside after heavy rain. Dealing with it is actually not difficult. The first step is to quickly dry the interior: park in a well-ventilated area, roll down the windows, or turn on the fan circulation mode for a few hours to speed up air flow. For cleaning, I've tried using car deodorizing spray bought from the supermarket, directly spraying it on the seats and carpets, then wiping with a dry cloth—it works well. Alternatively, a DIY solution of lemon juice mixed with water in a spray bottle can remove odors naturally and safely. Don’t forget to check the source of the water ingress. If it’s due to accumulated water in the AC system, you can replace the cabin air filter yourself. For long-term prevention, placing silica gel desiccants in corners helps absorb moisture—avoid using heavy chemical products to protect the interior. After dealing with this issue a few times, my experience is that early detection and action save both money and hassle.
