How to Deal with Musty Smell in a Car That Hasn't Been Driven for a Long Time?
3 Answers
Place several bags of bamboo charcoal in the car to absorb moisture and eliminate odors. On a sunny day, drive the car into the sun and open all doors and windows to air it out for one or two hours. Turn the car's air conditioning to the maximum heat setting and cycle through all air outlet modes for about 20 minutes.
I've encountered the issue of musty smell in the car after prolonged parking many times. Ventilation is the most crucial first step. I usually open all car doors and windows completely, park in a well-ventilated area, and let the air circulate for over half an hour. Next, inspect the interior - carpets and seats are most prone to moisture absorption and mold growth. I use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust, then scrub surfaces with soapy water. If there are visible mold spots, spray some mold remover or disinfectant to ensure complete elimination of mold spores. The AC system is another hotspot - it often emits odors upon startup. I recommend running the AC for about ten minutes to dehumidify, or directly using AC system sanitizer sprayed into the air vents. To prevent recurrence, place bamboo charcoal bags or silica gel desiccants, avoid parking in humid environments, and take regular short drives to maintain dryness. Health comes first, and these small actions are time-saving and effortless.
DIY deodorizing is the most cost-effective method. I often use baking soda and vinegar for this. First, sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the car carpets, let it sit for half an hour to absorb moisture and kill bacteria, then vacuum it up. For surface stains, wipe them with diluted white vinegar—simple yet effective. The air conditioning vents can harbor mold, so I buy a bottle of mold-removal spray and spray it inside, then turn on the fan for a few minutes to disperse the odor. When parking, leave a small gap in the window for ventilation or place a box of desiccant under the seat. Regularly washing the car inside and out can prevent musty smells. These steps cost just a few dollars but work incredibly well. Once it becomes a habit, it's no hassle at all.
