Black mold in closet: clean myself or call professional?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks now, and I just found some black spots along the baseboard in the corner of our master bedroom closet. We keep a lot of stuff in there, and I’m worried it’s been damp and we didn’t notice. Is this something I can clean myself with bleach, or do I need to call a professional mold inspection company to check it out properly?
Posted by Susan Williams
Asked on April 5, 2026 8:00 am
Based on the symptoms you've described, particularly the persistent cough in children and the discovery of black spots in a cluttered, potentially damp closet, I strongly advise against attempting to clean this yourself with bleach. In the UAE's climate, indoor mold growth is a significant concern. Our year-round reliance on AC can create pockets of high humidity and condensation, especially in enclosed, poorly ventilated spaces like closets packed with belongings. What you see on the surface is often just the tip of the iceberg; the mold may have penetrated the baseboard, the drywall behind it, or even the subfloor.

Bleach is ineffective on porous materials and can actually aggravate the problem by releasing a high volume of mold spores and harmful bleach fumes into the air, potentially worsening respiratory issues. A professional inspection is crucial here for two primary reasons: First, to conduct air and surface sampling to accurately identify the species of mold (e.g., whether it is the notorious Stachybotrys, or "black mold," or another allergenic type). Second, to determine the full extent of the contamination hidden from view using tools like moisture meters and borescopes.

In Dubai, remediation must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure the problem is solved at its source, not just cosmetically cleaned. Given the health symptoms present, a proper assessment is not just recommended, it is essential for your family's well-being.

For a comprehensive inspection and certified testing to understand exactly what you're dealing with, please contact our specialists at Saniservice. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a detailed assessment and a remediation plan tailored to the specific conditions of your home.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 7, 2026 2:00 pm