Can I remove musty smell from clothes myself?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a bit, and now all our winter clothes and shoes stored in there have this horrible damp, musty smell. We tried airing everything out on the balcony, but the smell just won't go away, and I'm worried about mold. Is this something I can fix with a DIY solution, or do I need to call a professional cleaning company to handle it?
Posted by Dong Choi
Asked on March 15, 2026 10:21 pm
Based on my experience here in Dubai, that musty smell is a major red flag for microbial growth, likely mold, due to the AC condensate leak creating a perfect high-humidity environment. While you can attempt some DIY methods, the root cause must be addressed first.

The AC leak must be repaired by a certified HVAC technician to prevent recurrence. For the clothes, washing with a mold-killing additive like Benefect Decon 30 or EC3 Laundry Additive is more effective than regular detergents. Soaking in a solution of white vinegar or baking soda can help for milder cases, but be cautious with delicate fabrics. Sun drying on your balcony can help, but our high humidity often limits its effectiveness; using a dehumidifier in a closed room while drying is better.

However, if the smell persists after washing, it indicates deep-seated mold hyphae within the fibers. At this point, professional hygienization is strongly recommended. We use industrial-grade HEPA-filtered washers, ozone, and hydroxyl generators to彻底消除 odors and microbial contamination without damaging the materials. DIY efforts often just mask the smell temporarily, and storing contaminated clothes can spread spores to other areas.

Given the potential health risks from mold exposure and the specific challenges of our climate, a professional assessment is wise. We can test the items to confirm the contamination level. For a proper inspection and quote, you can call us at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 18, 2026 8:20 pm