🚨 The Truth About Moldy Upholstery and Carpets: Why “Cleaning” Isn’t Enough
- Jon @ TDS TheDetailshop
- Jul 17
- 1 min read
When summer rains lead to leaks or water intrusion, it’s common to discover a musty smell or visible mold on vehicle seats, carpets, and upholstery.


But don’t be fooled by businesses claiming they can simply “clean” the mold away.
👉 Here’s what the CDC says:
"Porous materials, such as carpets and upholstery, cannot be completely cleaned once mold has grown on them and should be removed and replaced."
(Source: CDC.gov — Mold Cleanup Guidelines)
Why is this important?
Most cleaning methods only address the mold on the surface. What you can’t see—and what basic cleaning can’t reach—is the mold growing deep inside the foam cushions, carpet fibers, and underpadding.
Even if it looks clean after treatment, mold can continue to thrive underneath, posing a risk to your health and contributing to persistent odors and allergens.
At TDS The Detail Shop, we take this seriously.
We provide honest, informed advice—helping you understand when a surface can be safely cleaned and when replacement is the only real solution.
If your car has suffered water damage or mold issues, reach out today for an honest evaluation:
📱 Text: 269-267-0778
🌐 Book online: tdsdetailshop.com/book-online
✉️ Message us: m.me/tdsthedetailshop
Protect your health, your vehicle, and your family by making informed decisions—not falling for shortcuts.
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