Can high humidity cause clothes to smell musty?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in my bedroom closet. The humidity levels seem to spike every time there’s moisture outside, even though my air conditioning is on full blast. Is there anything specific I can do to prevent this from happening again and keep my clothes from smelling damp?
Posted by Youssef Al-Ahmad
Asked on January 17, 2026 8:55 am
Yes, high humidity can definitively cause clothes to develop that musty smell. This phenomenon is quite common in regions like Dubai where the climate often fluctuates between dry and humid conditions, especially after heavy rain events.

In your case, the persistent mustiness in your bedroom closet could be due to increased moisture levels affecting the environment, even with air conditioning running at full capacity. High humidity provides an ideal condition for microorganisms such as mold and bacteria to thrive. These organisms can grow on fabrics, leading to a buildup of unpleasant odors.

To address this issue effectively, several steps should be taken:

1. Dehumidification: Utilize dehumidifiers in your home, particularly during rainy periods or when humidity levels are exceptionally high. This is crucial for reducing moisture content and preventing microbial growth on fabrics.

2. Proper Ventilation: Ensure that your closet has proper ventilation to allow excess moisture to escape. Open windows if possible, but make sure it’s a short duration to avoid letting in too much outdoor humidity.

3. Closet Management: Organize your clothes so they have adequate airflow around them. Avoid stacking items too tightly and ensure there are no obstructions that prevent air from circulating freely.

4. Cleaning Practices: Regularly clean and dry any wet or damp areas in your closet, especially after washing clothes. Ensure all clothing is thoroughly dried before storing to minimize the chance of mold growth.

5. Professional Inspection: Given the specific conditions in Dubai, it might be beneficial to consult with a professional environmental inspection company. They can provide a thorough assessment of the humidity levels and offer tailored solutions based on local regulations (such as those outlined by the General Authority for Standards and Quality in the UAE).

For immediate relief and more personalized advice, you may consider contacting Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com. They can provide expert guidance to help alleviate your concerns and ensure a healthier living environment.

Remember, while these steps are effective, they might not fully resolve the issue if humidity levels remain persistently high. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures are key in maintaining indoor air quality, especially in regions prone to fluctuating weather conditions like Dubai.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 18, 2026 6:19 pm