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

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from my bedroom closet. Even with the AC running non-stop, it doesn't seem to help much. The humidity feels really high, especially in the evenings when it’s cooler outside. Do you think this is something I can handle myself or should I call in a professional?
Posted by Joseph Harris
Asked on March 1, 2026 5:08 pm
High humidity can indeed cause a musty smell, especially in environments like your bedroom closet. The presence of moisture provides the ideal conditions for mold and mildew to thrive, particularly in areas where there's little air circulation such as enclosed closets. In Dubai, UAE, high humidity levels are not uncommon due to geographical factors and climatic conditions.

Molds and mildews produce spores that can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which contribute to the musty smell. This odor is a tell-tale sign of moisture problems in your home. The persistent nature of this smell despite running the air conditioning suggests that there might be an underlying issue with humidity levels or water intrusion.

In Dubai, it’s crucial to maintain indoor relative humidity between 30% and 50%, which can help prevent mold growth. However, the high evening temperatures combined with cooler outside conditions may exacerbate moisture issues within your home. Employing dehumidifiers could be beneficial; they reduce air moisture content by extracting excess water vapor, lowering the RH level effectively.

However, considering the severity of the situation and its persistence, it would be wise to consult a professional service provider for an inspection. Saniservice (call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com) offers comprehensive mold and moisture assessments which can identify not only current problems but also potential sources of future issues.

Remember that addressing high humidity is more than just a matter of smell; it’s about ensuring the structural integrity and healthiness of your home. Regular maintenance checks, especially after rainfall or during particularly humid periods, are key to preventing such issues. By taking proactive steps now, you can avoid more extensive damage down the line.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 2, 2026 6:41 pm