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

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking for a while, and now I’ve found a patch of black mold on the back wall and on some of my shoes. We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed it, but my throat has been feeling scratchy in the mornings. Is this something I can clean with bleach myself, or do I need to call a professional company to handle it?
Posted by Nancy Miller
Asked on March 22, 2026 11:33 am
Based on the description of a long-term AC leak and the presence of black mold, I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself with bleach. The scratchy throat you're experiencing is a common symptom of exposure to mold spores, indicating the issue is already affecting your health. In the UAE's humid climate, AC units are a primary source of condensation and mold growth, especially when leaks occur.

Bleach is ineffective on porous materials like drywall and shoe leather. It only bleaches the surface mold while leaving the root structure intact, allowing it to regrow quickly. More critically, improper cleaning disperses a high concentration of spores into the air, significantly increasing your exposure and potentially contaminating other areas of your home.

For a situation involving persistent water damage, visible mold growth, and health symptoms, professional remediation is not just recommended—it is essential. Our protocol involves first conducting a comprehensive inspection and air quality testing to identify all contamination, including hidden mold within the wall cavity. Remediation then includes containing the area with physical barriers and negative air pressure to prevent cross-contamination, safely removing and disposing of porous, non-salvageable materials (like the affected drywall), and using specialized, EPA-approved antimicrobials to eliminate the mold at its root.

For your health and to ensure the problem is resolved permanently, please contact our certified team for an inspection. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 24, 2026 12:34 pm