How to Deal with Musty Smell After Water Leaks into the Car?
2 Answers
Use a high-power waterproof vacuum cleaner to suck up as much water as possible, then open all car doors and expose the vehicle to direct sunlight until the carpets are completely dry. You can also remove all the seats, wash them thoroughly in a bathroom, and then dry them in the sun. This helps prevent odors that might develop from sun exposure inside the car. During these steps, using a hairdryer to blow air can accelerate air circulation, promoting faster evaporation of moisture and drying out the interior.
After my car got flooded, there was a strong musty smell. It happened when heavy rain seeped through the door gaps, and the accumulated water wasn’t dealt with in time, leading to mold growth. I spent several days cleaning it—first parking the car under direct sunlight with all windows open for ventilation, then using a fan to blow air onto the carpets to speed up drying. The musty odor mainly comes from mold breeding in the damp interior, so I used household white vinegar or professional mold remover to scrub the seats and carpets, spraying it on and letting it sit before wiping it clean with a damp cloth. After thorough drying, I placed some charcoal bags inside to absorb moisture and prevent mold from returning. Usually, I check the door seals when parking to prevent rainwater from entering. After a flood, act quickly—delaying can allow mold to spread, damaging parts and possibly causing health issues like allergies or respiratory discomfort, which would then require expensive repairs. The key to prevention is keeping the car interior dry and well-ventilated, and checking that drainage holes are clear before the rainy season.
