Black spots in closet after humidity: clean or call management?« Back to Previous Page
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We’ve lived here for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black, speckled spots appearing in the corner of our master bedroom closet. It’s on the wall that faces the outside, and it’s been worse since the recent humidity. What’s the best way to clean this myself, or is this a job where I absolutely need to call the building management?
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That's likely surface mould feeding on dust and organic material in the humid air, a very common issue here. The external wall is likely slightly cooler than the room's air, causing condensation to form when your AC cycles off, especially during humid periods. This creates a perfect damp environment for mould.
For a small area (under one square meter), you can clean it yourself. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area with a microfiber cloth and a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach mixture (one part bleach to four parts water). Let it sit for 15 minutes, then wipe dry. Ensure the area is completely dry afterwards; a fan can help. Discard the cloth immediately. However, if the mould returns quickly, the spotting is extensive, or you notice a persistent musty smell, the moisture source may be more serious, like a small leak in the building envelope or rising damp. In this case, involving building management is necessary. Dubai's strata laws often hold them responsible for investigating and repairing structural issues leading to dampness. They should address the root cause—the moisture intrusion—before any cleaning is permanently effective. A professional inspection can confirm if the mould is only superficial or has penetrated the wall material, which requires different remediation techniques. |
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