What are the consequences of severe water ingress in car carpets?

[BarrettLee]

Severe water ingress in car carpets can lead to the following hazards: 1. Sponge deterioration: If the carpet is dried but a persistent musty smell remains in the car, it indicates that the floor mat underneath, including the sponge material, has also become damp and moldy. This requires professional repair services to remove the seats and lift the floor mat for thorough cleaning to eliminate the odor. 2. Bacterial growth: Even after drying, the car may retain residual odors or foster harmful bacteria. Water entering the car often carries dirty water like sewage, which is highly contaminated with bacteria. 3. Disinfection: After cleaning and drying the carpet, it is advisable to use specialized disinfectants or alcohol for interior sanitization to prevent health risks from bacteria. If odors persist after treatment, consider spraying deodorizers or placing citrus fruits like oranges or pineapples in the car to gradually neutralize the smell with their natural fragrance.