Can Mold Growth Occur in Your Vehicle?

Most people are aware of the dangers that mold growth presents in the home, but very few think of how that mold can also grow and wreak havoc in cars, too. Every time you open your vehicle’s doors and windows, the food and dust particles in your car circulate, and with a bit of lingering moisture from the rain or snow added, mold growth can begin. Below is some more information from a mold consulting service in Aspen, CO.

How does mold grow in a car?

All mold needs to begin growing is moisture and warmth in an enclosed environment. When it comes to your car, there are several different ways that this moisture can be introduced to its interior. Perhaps you left your windows down the night before and rain got into your car, or excess moisture remained after you washed and detailed your car’s interior. If the conditions are ideal, mold could start growing in a car that has been sitting unattended in as little as a day.

Your car’s air conditioner is also a major breeding ground for the potential growth of mold. When warm outside air that is typically full of bacteria and dirt makes its way into your vents, this humid air mixes with the moisture that is generated every time your air conditioner runs, and creates the perfect environment for mold to grow and multiply.

If you are driving your car everyday, it is possible that you might notice an odor or some other indicator that something isn’t right relatively quickly. If your car sits for a period of time, though—for example, a warm-weather car that sits all winter—potential mold growth could go unchecked and you could be in for a big surprise the next time you open the doors in the spring.

How can you get rid of mold?

The very first step of mold remediation in your car is to find the source of the moisture, so that it can be repaired and eliminated. You will then need to have your car cleaned thoroughly, and remove anything that was contaminated in the process. If the contamination was extensive, you might have to replace the carpeting, seat cushions or any other upholstery that was overtaken by the mold attack.

While you can certainly try to tackle this on your own, it is a good idea to seek out a professional that has access to heavy-duty equipment and proper techniques for mold remediation in Aspen, CO so that you can be sure that your problem is gone for good.

If you are commuting to and from work everyday and are being exposed to mold unknowingly, it could create health problems for you and your passengers. That is why, if you suspect that there might be mold growth in your car, you should contact the team at HealthSafe Inspections Inc. right away. For more than 10 years we have inspected and tested for contaminants such as mold, bacteria and more so that individuals can remain safe and get the help they need before it is too late. Give us a call today to schedule your consultation.

Categorised in: Mold

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