Should I clean black mold myself or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a bit and now there's a small patch of black mold on the back wall. It's been humid for the last couple of weeks and it seems to be slowly spreading. I'm worried about it but also not sure if it's a big enough job to call a professional. Should I just try to clean this myself with bleach or do I need to get a proper mold removal company in?
Posted by Linda Davis
Asked on March 28, 2026 12:42 am
Based on the description of your situation—an AC leak leading to a growing patch of black mold in your bedroom closet—I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself. This is a scenario we frequently encounter in Dubai due to our high humidity and constant AC use, which creates ideal conditions for mold proliferation.

Black mold, particularly from a persistent water source like an AC leak, is a significant health risk and indicates a deeper issue. Using bleach is a common misconception; it is a surface-level disinfectant that does not kill the mold roots (hyphae) and can actually aggravate the problem by releasing more spores into the air. The moisture from the bleach can also feed the underlying mold, causing it to return stronger.

In the UAE, professional remediation is not just recommended, it is often mandated by building management and aligns with strict health and safety standards. A certified professional will first conduct a thorough inspection to identify the exact species and the full extent of the contamination, which is often far greater than what is visible. The process involves containing the area to prevent cross-contamination, using industrial-grade HEPA filtration to purify the air, and applying specialized antimicrobial agents to eliminate the colony at its root. Crucially, they will also identify and rectify the source of the moisture, which in your case is the AC leak, to prevent immediate recurrence.

For a situation involving an AC unit and visible growth, a professional assessment is essential. I recommend you contact our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection and remediation plan. You can reach us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or via email at hello@saniservice.com. Addressing this correctly now will protect your health and your property.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 30, 2026 5:04 pm