How to Remove Mildew Odors from a Car

Left the windows open in a rainstorm? The resulting mildew not only stinks - it can be indicative of mold in your vehicle. Getting at the source is the first step in returning your car's interior to its pre-shower state.

1. Try to find the source of the odor. Check rugs, upholstery and air conditioning vents for signs of mold or moisture.

2. Thoroughly dry the affected area by soaking up any liquid with a towel, then use a hair dryer to dry it completely.

3. Remove the floor mats and lay them out in the sun for a few days if they are the source of the odor.

4. Scatter Borax or baking soda over the floor and upholstery of affected areas. Work it into the rugs with your hands.

5. Let it remain at least overnight and then vacuum.

6. Use a commercial odor absorber or enzyme cleaner according to directions if some odor remains.

7. Clean air conditioner vents with a cotton swab dipped in window cleaner. If you still smell mildew in your air conditioning system, try running the heater full-blast for 10 minutes to dry it out, leaving the windows open.

8. Take the car for a professional interior cleaning if all else fails.

Do you know if leaving the Hummer in one's garage with a dehumidifier running (perhaps putting the dehumidifier in the Hummer) would help? Do dehumidifiers even work in garages.

Anyway, once the mildew is out, putting one of those air fresheners inside the Hummer could help. Those usually last for a few weeks too.

To remove mildew from car mix one part of chlorine bleach diluted with 3 parts of water, allow to stand on surface for 10 to15 minutes, agitate with a soft scrub brush, rinsed down with water, and allow to air dry. Remeber to test on hidden area first. If discolouration occurs, dilute the bleach with water.