How to permanently remove mold from AC closet and prevent it?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom closet has been leaking on and off for a couple of months, and now I’ve found a patch of black mold on the back wall and on some of our shoes. We had maintenance fix the leak, but I’m worried the mold will just come back. What’s the best way to clean this myself to make sure it’s completely gone and how can I stop the humidity from causing it again?
Posted by Archana Mishra
Asked on March 25, 2026 3:30 pm
The mold growth you've described is a classic symptom of a chronic moisture issue, in this case, the AC condensate leak. While the leak is fixed, the mold has established itself, and improper cleaning will only spread spores and lead to rapid regrowth, especially given Dubai's high ambient humidity which promotes condensation.

For a small, contained area like a closet, you can attempt a careful cleanup. However, I must stress that this is only for surface-level contamination on non-porous materials. You will need personal protective equipment: an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles. For the wall, use a HEPA-filtered vacuum to capture loose spores, then scrub with a solution of detergent and water. Follow this with a disinfectant like diluted bleach (1 cup per gallon of water) or a specialized EPA-approved fungicide. The shoes, if non-porous, can be cleaned similarly; if porous like leather or fabric, they may need to be professionally cleaned or discarded.

Crucially, this addresses the symptom, not the cause. The underlying problem is the persistent humidity and potential residual moisture within the wall cavity or AC unit itself. The leak may have soaked the insulation or drywall, creating a hidden reservoir of moisture that will cause the mold to return. In the UAE, where AC systems run year-round, proper drainage and insulation of condensation lines are paramount to prevent recurrence.

For a permanent solution and to ensure the hidden mold is eradicated, a professional inspection is strongly advised. We use thermal imaging cameras to detect residual moisture and air sampling to identify spore types and concentrations. Our certified remediation teams at Saniservice are trained in Dubai Municipality guidelines for safe and effective mold removal, ensuring it is contained and removed, not just superficially cleaned. For a definitive assessment and to prevent future health risks, please call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 27, 2026 2:00 pm