What Causes Car Carpeting to Stay Damp or Smell Musty
- Maddox Mossler
- Dec 23, 2025
- 1 min read

A musty smelling car is almost always caused by moisture trapped in the carpet and padding.
Spills, wet shoes, and humidity soak into carpet fibers and foam underneath. Even when the surface feels dry, moisture can remain trapped below.
Improper cleaning makes the problem worse. Over wetting carpets without proper extraction leaves water behind, creating the perfect environment for mold and bacteria.
Florida humidity slows evaporation. In Ormond Beach, moisture lingers much longer than in drier climates.
Clogged drain channels and minor leaks can also contribute, allowing water to collect unnoticed under carpeting.
Professional interior detailing removes moisture from deep within the carpet and ensures proper drying. Without this step, odors return quickly.
If your car smells musty, air fresheners will not fix it. Moisture removal is the only solution. If you are interested in a detail, you can book one today here.



