Can I clean up this mold myself?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell emanating from the lower corners of my bedroom closet. It's gotten worse every day, and now there’s visible mold growing on the wall behind the closet door. My family has been complaining about coughing and runny noses, which makes me think it might be related to this mold issue. Do you think I can handle cleaning this up myself or should I call a professional?
Posted by Camille Wojcik
Asked on December 24, 2025 1:13 am
Absolutely, handling mold issues can be quite complex and depends heavily on the severity of the situation. In Dubai/UAE, it's crucial to know that regulations require professional intervention for extensive or widespread mold problems, but minor cases might indeed allow for DIY cleanup.

First off, you've noticed a musty smell and visible mold growth in your bedroom closet area, which has led to respiratory issues among family members. This is a clear sign of a mold problem that needs immediate attention. The fact that the issue is worsening over time suggests it's beyond just surface-level contamination; likely, deeper moisture issues are at play.

Before diving into any cleanup work, ensure you have proper personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, respirators, and goggles. Mold can produce spores that can irritate your respiratory system, so adequate protection is essential to prevent further health issues.

Given the scenario in Dubai, it's important to assess if the mold growth covers more than 10% of a surface or if it’s present on materials like drywall or wood, which may require professional remediation. In your case, since you’ve noticed visible growth and worsening conditions, it would be prudent to contact a certified environmental inspection and remediation company.

Professional services are recommended for several reasons:
• They have the necessary training and equipment to safely handle mold.
• They can identify underlying moisture issues that could lead to reoccurring mold problems.
• They provide peace of mind knowing your health isn’t compromised by airborne spores.

However, if you decide to tackle it yourself, here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and wear PPE.
2. Remove all affected materials (if not too extensive) or clean surfaces with a mixture of water and detergent followed by thorough drying.
3. Address the source of moisture—this might involve calling in a plumber or HVAC specialist.
4. After cleaning, apply a mold-resistant coating to prevent future growth.

Remember, if you experience any health issues after beginning the cleanup, it’s best to seek medical advice promptly.

Lastly, keep an eye on your family's condition and if symptoms persist despite clean-up efforts, do not hesitate to call for professional assistance at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com. This ensures you’re addressing both the immediate problem and preventing long-term health risks.

Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 25, 2025 5:10 am