Headliner Cleaning

50C8DAN
50C8DAN Senior Contributor
edited November -1 in HUDSON
My '50 C8 has been sitting inside for over 40 years, except when we moved it several times. It is getting close to being on the road, but the head liner, which physically in great shape, needs to be cleaned. It is blackish due to I guess mold. What has anyone used to clean a headliner. I am afraid of using any bleach since it may weaken the fabric. So any ideas?



Thanks

Comments

  • Unknown
    Unknown
    Dan,



    Based on recent medical studies, molds are nothing to fool with. Certain strains of which can cause significant illness and, in the case of infants exposed to certain strains, death. If you are indeed dealing with mold, get rid of all suspect materials and clean remaining hard surfaces with chlorine bleach. The remainder of your interior will probably require professional cleaning to get rid of mold spores. Perhaps you should consult a firm engaged in resolving environmental matters. Better to be safe than sick.



    Dave
  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User]
    Maybe that's why wer're all addicted to Hudsons! It has nothing to do with the car it's the addictive smell of mold that makes us all go nuts yeah that it mold!!! Geezz ya learn somthin every day.
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    Joke if you like, but stachybotrys (a strain of black mold) typically grows on cellulose based products in the presence of moisture and, in doing so, is a mycotoxin producer which causes mycotoxicosis. Ever hear of Sick Building Syndrome? Obviously, there is a deep seated moisture problem with the car. With that being said, removing the interior (for the sake of safety) should include eliminating the source(s) of moisture penetration and identifying to what degree, if any, heavy corrosion has set in. A multi-millionaire in TX had a flip attitude regarding mold growth in his home and its toxic effects. Currently, this young husband and father of two is now a full-time resident of a nursing home. Breath deep at your own risk!
  • 50C8DAN
    50C8DAN Senior Contributor
    Thanks for the input but there is no other evidence of mold on or in the upholstery or other interior panels, no mildew on the vinyl or other areas. The floor is solid no rot what so ever. The is zero corrosion in the car other than the rocker panels due to plugged up drains on both sides. The problem is just a darkening of the taupe colored headliner. The car is not musty smelling over any other old car that I have been in or owned. The windows have been down for several years in my garage. I understand the issues with mold toxins but think that this situation is not of any magnitude that would call for wholesale replacement of the interior. I will keep this in mind but will probably try a dilute bleach solution to see what happens.



    Thanks
  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User]
    I would take it to an upholstry guy who does some sort of cleaning. They might be able to tell you what it is and they maybe able to clean it without damage.
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    lli use the shop vac with a brush attachment, it cleans great and even restores orig color, bill albright
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    If what you can see is a concern, what about that which you cannot see? Mold/mildew spores are microscopic and by the time you see growths, you're dealing with millionis of spores. If you don't treat the cause of the problem properly, it will just resurface. Simply vacuuming or using other superfical cleaning methods will net superficial results. Reason being, spores can go dormant for decades if food, water or shelter are not present. Once all of those requisites are again met, they become active. I have no interest or bias regarding this topic, just trying to share what I know out of concern for your well being as well as that of others who may read this.
  • [Deleted User]
    [Deleted User]
    i don't know for sure, but i have been told a solution of 25% hydro-peroxide in water and wet it down good with a spray bottle will kill mold spores and not harm the material. you might want to try it in an out of the way spot just in case.
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    Hydrogen peroxide is an oxygenator which, if left on the material for an extended time, will bleach color out of a headliner just as it whitens skin and lightens dark hair. Why not just try a readily available mildecide?
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    I am a third generation musty smellin Hudson guy. Like a moth to a flame it is one of the things that attracts me to what we do. Even now when I drive my Hornet my Grampa ain't with me but I sure can smell him. Dan's problem sounds a little bit more than aromatherapy. Original is preferred but sometimes replace is the answer.
  • Unknown
    Unknown
    I would make the effort to assure yourself any car is free of mold or other toxins. I am the unfortunate recipient of asthmatic genes and in the past when I found a "new hudson" with remnants of original upholstery or even the "super nice" original 54 Hornet with fully intact original interior... they ALL caused me to have varying breathing problems... To get the car interiors back to a neutral state... I had to do what Bill A suggested... open the doors on a bright sunny day and let them air out and then with a face mask, vacume the heck out of the headliner, seat uphostery and carpets... several cleanings with neutral (no scent) cleaners finished the job and I was able to tolerate the cars....let me be clear....this was not a HUDSON only thing... all old cars effect me the same... asthma and very labored beathing if not careful... not a chicken little story... just a bit of compassion for those who share my congentical jog in tolerating my enviornment. A clear deep breath is a wonderful gift ... one that I cherish.
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