How to clean black mold and check for wall moisture?« Back to Previous Page

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, especially on a leather bag and some shoes. It's on the wall that faces the outside, and I'm worried the recent humidity made it worse. What's the most effective way to clean this and who should I call to check for moisture in the wall itself?
Posted by Nancy Walker
Asked on April 5, 2026 12:40 pm
For a small surface area, clean with a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 4 parts water) while wearing an N95 mask and gloves. Scrub the area, let it dry completely, and monitor for regrowth. However, the presence on leather and shoes, plus its location on an exterior wall, strongly suggests a hidden moisture issue that simple cleaning won't fix.

In Dubai's climate, exterior walls are prone to condensation from the extreme temperature differential between the air-conditioned interior and the hot, humid outside air. This chronic dampness inside the wall cavity is the root cause. The mold you see is likely just the visible portion.

You should call a professional mold inspector to identify the moisture source. They use tools like thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to detect water intrusion within the wall itself without unnecessary demolition. This is a critical step, as the wall may need targeted drying or repairs to prevent the mold from returning.

For remediation, a certified company should handle it if the affected area is larger than one square meter or if the wall cavity is involved. They will contain the area, safely remove contaminated materials, and perform anti-microbial treatment. Always request a post-remediation verification test from an independent lab to confirm the spore count has returned to acceptable indoor levels. This documented proof is your assurance the problem is truly resolved.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 5, 2026 2:50 pm