How to safely clean mold and prevent it permanently?« Back to Previous Page
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My kids have been coughing at night and I’ve just spotted some black spots on the back of our bedroom closet, which is on the exterior wall of our villa in Arabian Ranches. It’s been so humid lately and I’m worried it's mold. What’s the best way to clean this safely and what can I do to stop it from coming back for good?
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For the visible black spots, use a solution of 70% white vinegar and 30% water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the area, let it sit for an hour, then wipe it clean with a microfiber cloth. Wear an N95 mask and gloves to avoid inhaling spores. Do not use bleach, as it only removes the colour and can push the mould deeper into the porous wall material.
To stop it from returning, you must address the humidity source. In Arabian Ranches villas, the exterior wall is likely a cold bridge where condensation forms from the contrast between the humid outdoor air and your AC-cooled room. This trapped moisture feeds the mould. Move the closet a few inches away from the wall to improve air circulation. Ensure your AC unit is serviced and draining properly, as a clogged drain pan is a common hidden moisture source. For a permanent solution, consider a professional assessment. They can use a thermal imaging camera to identify the exact condensation points and a moisture meter to check the wall's internal dampness level. In many cases, applying a specialised anti-mould coating or improving the wall's insulation is necessary to break the condensation cycle. Given the children's coughing, a lab test to identify the mould species can clarify the health risk and confirm the cleanup was successful. |
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