Black mold in closet: DIY cleaning or call building management?« Back to Previous Page

This is likely a condensation issue due to the temperature difference between your air-conditioned bedroom and the outside wall in humid Marina. The wall is acting as a "cold bridge," attracting moisture from the warm, humid air, which then fuels mold growth on organic materials like leather bags and shoes.

For a small area (under one square meter), a DIY approach may suffice. Wear an N95 mask and gloves. Clean hard surfaces with a mixture of detergent and water, or a solution of white vinegar. For porous items like shoes and bags, a thorough wipe with a suitable cleaner is needed. The critical step is addressing the moisture source. Ensure the closet is well-ventilated and not overpacked. A moisture-absorbing product like silica gel can help maintain low humidity inside the closed space.

However, if the mold covers a larger area, has penetrated the drywall, or returns quickly after cleaning, you should involve building management. In Dubai, the responsibility for structural issues like inadequate insulation or leaking external seals typically falls on the property owner. They need to rectify the root cause—the cold bridge—which may require professional insulation solutions to prevent perpetual recurrence. A professional inspection can verify the extent and identify the exact species, which is advised if household members experience respiratory issues.