Best Practices for Drying Out a Wet Car

Water inside a car can cause more than just discomfort—it can lead to mold, mildew, and even damage to the vehicle’s interior. Whether you’re dealing with a spilled drink, a leaky window, or a soaked interior after a rainstorm, here are some best practices for drying out a wet car efficiently

Note: Many times when a vehicle gets wetter than from a simple spill, water gets under the carpet.  In this case,  the carpet trim must be removed and the carpet pulled back to dry out the carpet padding.  If the trapped moisture under the carpet is not removed the carpet padding can become moldy and very smelly.

Remove Excess Water Immediately

Start by removing as much water as possible. Use:

• Towels: Absorb visible puddles and damp areas.
• Wet/Dry Vacuum: Extract water from carpets, seats, and hard-to-reach areas.

The quicker you act, the less chance water has to seep into the car’s deeper layers.

Take Out Wet Items

Remove floor mats, seat covers, and any other items that have absorbed water. Lay them out in the sun or in a well-ventilated area to dry. If they’re heavily soaked, consider using a pressure washer or cleaning solution before drying to prevent odors.

Circulate Air Inside the Car

Proper airflow is essential to remove moisture:

• Open the Windows and Doors: If weather permits, let fresh air circulate.
• Use Fans: Place one or more fans inside the car to speed up the drying process.

Use a Dehumidifier or Desiccants

For persistent dampness, use a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing products such as silica gel packs. These can help remove residual moisture from the air and surfaces.

Turn on the Heat

On colder days, you can use your car’s heater to warm up the interior, which can help evaporate water. Combine this with running the air conditioner to dehumidify the air.

Shampoo and Clean Damp Areas

If water has soaked into the carpets or upholstery, clean these areas with a mild carpet cleaner or upholstery shampoo. This helps prevent mold and removes odors.

Inspect for Mold and Odors

After drying, check for any lingering damp smells or visible mold. If found:

• Hydrogen Peroxide or Mold Cleaner: Use a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water or a commercial mold cleaner to treat affected areas.
• Use Odor Eliminators: Charcoal bags, or specialized car odor removers can help neutralize the odor

Prevent Future Water Intrusion

Identify the source of the water and fix it to prevent recurrence. Common culprits include:

• Faulty weather stripping
• Clogged sunroof drains
• Leaky windows or doors

Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent future water-related issues.

Conclusion

Drying out a wet car requires quick action and the right tools. By following these steps, you can restore your car’s interior and prevent long-term damage. Remember, addressing the source of the problem is just as important as drying the car itself to avoid future headaches.