Ahgh. Mold.

July 24, 2008 9:27 PM

How do I remove mold and milk residue from the fabric interior on the seat of my car?

This is gross. A not-quite-finished bottle of milk which I seem to have discarded into a seat (and promptly forgot about) split open somehow in my car in this summer's heat. Now there is just a lot of mold growing in the spot where it leaked. What can I do to get rid of the mold and the milk residue?

(Also--would driving my currently moldy car be a major health risk?)

posted by Alligator to Grab Bag (2 answers total)

According to this page:

To remove mold, mildew and their odor from upholstered auto seats, products with peroxide and detergents will restore the car interior. This both removes the stain and deactivates the odor. Simply spray a citrus cleaner product on the soiled area. Wait about five minutes for it to penetrate. Using a clean white absorbent cloth, blot the area, pressing down firmly without rubbing for 30 seconds. Repeat this blotting process until the area is dry. If the stain or odor persists, repeat the process. As an alternative, you could create a cleaning mixture by combining 1/4 teaspoon of color safe bleach and 1/4 cup of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. With a clean cloth, gently rub the stain until it is gone. Rinse the area with clear, warm water and dry thoroughly.

I don't think it's likely that this would be a hazardous mold, but you should clean it as soon as you can so any staining to your upholstery is minimised.
posted by The Monkey at 10:24 PM on July 24, 2008

thanks Alligator and The Monkey I just pulled an old sippy cup (were talking 2 weeks + maybe) with milk out of my car and some must have leaked out. I'll be shopping for products with peroxide and detergents right after work!
posted by doorsfan at 10:28 AM on July 25, 2008