Returning from a holiday should be the end of a relaxing and joyous time, a moment filled with the comfort of coming back to your own space. However, for one Australian family from the Sunshine Coast, their post-vacation homecoming was anything but comforting. Upon entering their garage, they were greeted by a sight that left them horrified: their car, which had been left behind, was now completely engulfed in mould.

The family's vehicle had become a breeding ground for bacteria, with mould spreading voraciously across the interior, claiming the seats, steering wheel, middle console, floors, and doors as its domain. The mother, clearly distressed, took to social media to share photos of the mould-infested car, seeking advice on how to remedy the situation. Her post was met with sympathy and shared dismay from fellow Aussies, some of whom had faced similar battles and feared the car might be beyond saving.


'That's a huge write-off,' commented one person, echoing the sentiments of many who viewed the images. Another added, 'Even if you managed to get that clean, I still don’t think I would be able to trust that it is safe.' It was a sentiment that resonated with others who had experienced the same issue, with some revealing that their insurance companies had deemed their mould-ridden cars a total loss.


But is there hope for a car that has been taken hostage by mould? According to mould removal expert Anthony Johnson from Green Mould Solutions, the answer is not a simple yes or no. With eight years of experience under his belt, Johnson explained that a closed-in car can indeed become the perfect incubator for mould, especially if there's a small opening that allows moisture to seep in. The resulting humidity creates an ideal environment for mould to flourish and spread with alarming speed.


Johnson warned that it only takes about 48 hours for mould to overrun a car interior. However, he also offered a glimmer of hope, stating that with the right approach, mould removal is possible. But it's not a job for the untrained DIYer; it requires professional intervention, using the correct cleaning solutions and equipment to eradicate the mould completely.

The process of removing mould safely is intricate and involves a specialised surface solution and the use of an Ozone Machine to eliminate airborne mould spores. 'The key is to kill the mould from the surface,' Johnson emphasized. Treating the various materials within the car's interior, such as plastic, metal, and leather fabric, is crucial to prevent the mould from returning and spreading anew.

Johnson also highlighted the importance of dealing with mould professionally, not just in cars but in homes and workplaces too. Mould spores, often invisible to the naked eye, can pose significant health risks, making it imperative to have a professional who can identify and remove the build-up effectively.


For those looking to prevent mould, Johnson's advice is straightforward: maintain a dry, clean, and well-ventilated environment. Simple steps like regularly airing out your car, checking for leaks, and using moisture-absorbing products can go a long way in keeping mould at bay.
This family's unfortunate experience serves as a cautionary tale for all of us. Mould can strike when least expected, turning even a beloved car into a health hazard. If you've encountered a similar issue or have tips on preventing mould, we invite you to share your story with us. Your insights could help others avoid the shock and dismay that comes with such a discovery. And remember, if you're ever in doubt, it's always best to consult with a professional to ensure your environment is safe and mould-free.