How to safely clean mold behind wardrobe myself?« Back to Previous Page

Alright, so you've found mold behind the wardrobe in Mirdif. Given the recent high humidity and that major storm we had, that's a classic scenario here in Dubai for mold growth on exterior walls. As a certified mold inspector here in the UAE, I strongly advise caution with a DIY approach, especially with kids experiencing respiratory issues. That cough could be a direct reaction.

First, safety is paramount. Do NOT just wipe it with bleach or a common household cleaner. This can agitate the spores, releasing them into the air and potentially making the situation worse. You need proper personal protective equipment (PPE): at a minimum, an N95 respirator mask, nitrile gloves, and safety goggles. Seal off the room from the rest of the villa – close the door and put a towel at the base.

For cleaning, your best bet is a solution of distilled white vinegar and water (1:1 ratio) or a proprietary mold removal product from a hardware store. Scrub the area thoroughly with a stiff brush. However, and this is a big however, this only addresses the surface mold you can see. The real concern is moisture penetration in the wall itself, which is extremely common with our construction methods and climate. If the wall is still damp, the mold will 100% return.

The coughing is a major red flag. This indicates a potential airborne spore issue that cleaning the visible patch won't solve. DIY methods are a temporary fix at best. For a permanent solution and to ensure your family's health, you need a professional inspection. We use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to find the exact source of the moisture within the wall structure and assess the full extent of the contamination.

Honestly, with the symptoms present, I'd recommend calling in a pro to get it done right. You can reach our team for a consultation at 800-MOLDS or hello@saniservice.com. We can at least give you proper guidance over the phone based on your specific situation.