11 ways to keep your car moisture-free

A clean, fresh, and dry interior mean a pleasant and comfortable ride. A dry car is also less likely to develop an odor. On the other hand, the presence of moisture in the cabin can make it prone to developing mildew and musty smells, and it can also damage components. This is why it's important to keep the cabin moisture-free. Here are some tips from Philkotse.com to help you achieve this.

1. Use a desiccant and a dehumidifier

Desiccant and dehumidifiers are used to check the buildup of moisture in a very economical way. Make sure you get short-standing dehumidifiers that easily fit under the seats and will not topple over. The combination of moisture collected with the granules inside creates a slick liquid.  Once all the granules have dissolved, you need to replace them.

If you don’t have any of the devices mentioned above, you can also use uncooked rice or charcoal.

Desiccant and dehumidifiers are devices used for minimizing the buildup of moisture in a very economical way

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2. Use the car heater

When you are driving all day in the rain, there's a high chance that excess moisture has already built-up in your vehicle and air-conditioning vents. Once you arrive home, switch the setting of the thermostat to maximum heat then blast your blowers -- as you leave the windows slightly open to allow the vapor to escape.

Leave it for about 15 minutes and you will see a drier interior. Additionally, remember to unclip anything mounted to the AC vents like air fresheners. This can also help prevent the musty smell of the air-conditioner every time you turn it on.

Switch the setting of the thermostat to maximum heat then blast your blowers

>>> Also check: 3 DIY tips to deal with moldy smells inside the car vents.

3. Invest in good-quality floor mats

It’s essential to maintain the tip-top condition of your car carpeting. This is to prevent expensive carpet replacement, corrosion buildup beneath, and growth of mold and bacteria that are harmful to your health and the health of your passengers.

You can opt for a set of precision-fitting deep-dish floor mats which is a great option in keeping your carpet dry and it will also keep the atmosphere of the cabin fresh. You can find different options for floor mats in the market that will suit your budget.

You can opt for a set of precision-fitting deep dish floor mats

4. Do not leave any wet items inside the car

Do not leave anything wet like soaked umbrellas, raincoats, footwear or clothes in your car -- even in the trunk. Make sure that these items have a designated container or area, and never procrastinate on cleaning the cabin after each trip or every end of the day for that matter.

Do not leave anything wet in your car -- even in the trunk

5. Check the cabin filter

If you neglect the cabin filter of your car, it can get really dirty and can be the source of foul odor. The combination of dirt in the cabin filter’s cavities and increased moisture forms a breeding ground for bacteria. Always check and replace the cabin filter as often as needed.

6. Use deodorizing or disinfectant sprays

These days, we already have lots of options for cabin care. Another option you have is to use a deodorizing or disinfectant spray. If you have been driving in the rain for weeks already, give your air-conditioning system and interior a treat with a deodorizing or disinfectant spray.

All you have to do is to switch the AC to high with closed circulation. Place the spray on the floor preferably in the last row with the front seat moved forward. Engage the spray nozzle until it locks open. Wait for 15 minutes or until it runs out of the spray. When done, open the windows and doors for a few minutes for ventilation. Then you’re good to go.

You can find these products in automotive sections at major hardware stores.

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Use a deodorizing or disinfectant spray

7. Procure fabric protectants

When you’re done detailing your interior, treat the carpeting and upholstery with a good fabric protectant. Be generous when applying fabric protectants because it will give your carpet and fabric a repellent barrier -- keeping them from absorbing unwanted moisture.

>>> Grab your attention: Tips & Tricks to get rid of bad smell in your car.

8. Keep a container of baking soda in your vehicle

If you’re on a tight budget, you can use baking soda to absorb moisture. Fill a small container with baking soda and place it on one of the floors of your vehicle for continuous absorption of moisture. Check it every other day. If the baking soda gets damp, replace it.

9. Check for leaks throughout the vehicle

To do this, you can ask a friend or buddy to stay inside the vehicle while you’re spraying it using a hose. Ask him/her to check if there are any water leaks through the door sills, sunroof, moonroof, windows, and even the floors. If there are leaks, bring your vehicle to a repair shop and have them plugged up as soon as possible.

The presence of moisture in the cabin is super annoying

10. Immediately dry out any presence of moisture

Swiftly dry out moisture. If the dampness is too much, blot it to absorb as much moisture as you can. Then vacuum the carpets and leave the doors and windows open overnight (it is only applicable if you have a safe and secure parking space or garage).

Sprinkle baking soda to the affected area. It is better to address the moisture as soon as possible to avoid the need for deeper cleaning.

11. Clean the vehicle every two weeks

To prevent any moisture or mold and mildew build-up in the car interior, it’s important that you keep your vehicle clean, outside and, most especially, inside. Start by removing all trash as it might become the source of bad odors in the cabin. Wipe down all hard surfaces of the car’s interior.

Vacuum the seats and mats. Address any dirt or stains in the car upholstery using upholstery cleaner, then vacuum it again. For leather car seats, you can clean them using saddle soap.

>>> Tips for you: 6 Ways to Maintain Your Car Interior’s Cleanliness.

It’s important that you keep your vehicle clean, outside and, most especially, inside

Tip: You can use a wet/dry vacuum on all types of car interiors. If you worry about the scratches it might leave on the leather surfaces, and then employ only light pressure on the vacuum attachment when using it.