Can I clean closet mold myself or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page

My kids have been coughing for a couple of weeks and I just found a patch of black spots in the corner of our master bedroom closet, behind some shoe boxes. It's been so humid lately that our windows are foggy in the mornings. Is this something I can clean myself with vinegar or bleach, or do I absolutely need to call a professional mold inspection company to check the walls?
Posted by Hong Wang
Asked on April 10, 2026 7:46 am
Based on your description, this situation requires professional assessment. The persistent coughing in children and the discovery of a hidden mold colony, coupled with the current high humidity and condensation on windows, are significant red flags.

In Dubai's climate, constant air conditioning creates ideal conditions for mold when combined with high ambient humidity. The mold you see is likely just the surface manifestation of a larger problem. The colony may have penetrated the drywall or the closet's backing, and the moisture source feeding it needs to be identified and resolved.

While small, superficial patches on non-porous surfaces can sometimes be addressed with a bleach solution, this is not recommended here. DIY cleaning with vinegar or bleach on porous materials like drywall or wood is often ineffective. It only addresses the visible discoloration, not the root structure (hyphae) embedded within the material. Furthermore, improper cleaning can aerosolize spores, potentially worsening your family's exposure and respiratory symptoms.

UAE regulations, particularly in Dubai, emphasize the importance of professional remediation to ensure the health and safety of building occupants. A certified inspector will conduct a thorough assessment, including moisture mapping and air quality testing, to determine the full extent of the contamination and identify the moisture intrusion source.

For the health of your family and to ensure the problem is resolved correctly, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Please contact our certified team at Saniservice for a comprehensive assessment. Call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 3:33 pm