A DRIVING pro has revealed a 20p hack to banish mould from your car in the damp winter months.
The pro revealed this unlikely pet product acts as a dehumidifier.
Drivers wanting to prevent the mould from forming in the first place should consider this hack, Darren Miller, from the vehicle buying service BigWantsYourCar.com, suggests.
The trick is to place a full sock of cat litter on the car windscreen and allow it to soak up the moisture in the air.
By soaking up the moisture it will prevent mould from forming as once it appears, it can be difficult to get rid of.
Cat litter can be bought from Amazon for as little as £3.19 for a 4L bag.
Add a small scoop to a sock and it could cost you just 20p.
AIR CONDITIONING
Darren also recommends regularly running the air conditioning system to prevent mould.
He explained: “Effective use of your vehicle’s heating and air conditioning systems is a strategic approach to controlling interior moisture levels.
“These systems are not merely for comfort; they are important for maintaining a dry and mould-free environment.”
For those already experiencing minor instances of mould using cleaning cloths can be surprisingly effective.
So long as the driver and/or passengers can face the winter chill outside.
AVOID EATING AND DRINKING
Another hack the driving pro revealed is to minimise eating and drinking in your car.
He said: “Minimising eating and drinking inside vehicles significantly reduces the likelihood of mould.
“Even minor spills and crumbs can create an environment for mould growth.
“This is because organic materials and liquids provide the perfect breeding ground for mould. In the event of spills, immediate cleanup is important.”
WATER DAMAGE
Another issue, repeatedly overlooked is dealing with water damage quickly.
The key problem area is he scuttle panel below the windscreen wipers, Darren explained.
This area is important for water drainage but can often get clogged up with leaves, flower petals, and other debris, causing water to back up, which can then enter the air conditioning and heating systems,” he said.
“Water damage can quickly escalate into a mould problem if not addressed, emphasising the importance of monitoring for leaks and ensuring proper vehicle maintenance.”
The expert listed signs of water damage, including damp carpets, a musty smell, or water stains.
“These can also often be the first sign of a more serious issue, such as a leaky sunroof or door seal, which requires immediate repair to prevent mould,” Darren added.
He advised regular checks and drainage of these areas.
SIGNS AND RISKS OF MOULD
Signs you have mould in your car:
- A persistent musty odur
- Visible mould growth on upholstery, carpets or other interior surfaces
- Increased allergy symptoms
Mould spores can be potentially hazardous, causing or worsening respiratory issues and allergic reactions.
“It’s important to be aware of the dangers that mould can pose to your health and keep an eye out for any signs of it in your vehicle,” said Darren.
“Checking your car regularly for signs of moisture or mould, even in places you can’t easily see, like under the seats or carpets, is key to maintaining a healthy environment inside your car and avoiding expensive cleaning fees.”
