Expert: Bob - 1/9/2009

Question
Several weeks ago a gallon of milk opened in the cargo area of my 2008 Sienna. I took it to a detailer who shampooed and sprayed with microban. It was extremely cold out and I think the milk froze between the carpet and the body in the padding. It now REEKS and no one will guarantee that more shampooing will eliminate the smell. One recommended replacing the padding. Is there any way for me to get to the padding myself and dry it out? I don't see any visible way of getting it out from under the interior plastic trim.

Answer
HI,

The detailer you took it to did not do you a favor. The pad should be replaced because it acts as a sponge. It would be a great waste of time and your money trying to clean it properly or dry it out. This will not kill the bacteria if a gallon of milk was spilled.

There has been to much time between the original spill and what has been done to try to clean it. My rule of thumb is to get to a spill within 48 hours.

How to remove the panels is a question I can't answer. I would ask you to address that part of the question to one of the body shop experts.

I hope this helps.
Bob