Can I remove mold from leather jackets myself or need professional?« Back to Previous Page

Our family villa in Mirdif has been feeling so humid lately. I just pulled our winter clothes out of the master bedroom closet and found a bunch of them, especially some leather jackets, covered in black and green fuzzy spots. We had that minor leak near the window during the heavy rains in March, and I guess the moisture never fully left. What's the most effective way to get rid of this mold for good and can I handle it myself with products from ACE Hardware, or do I need to call a professional company?
Posted by Nancy Brown
Asked on April 22, 2026 11:25 am
Leather is porous, so mold removal is difficult and risks permanent damage. For minor, surface-level fuzz, you can attempt a DIY clean. First, take the jackets outside to avoid spreading spores indoors. Gently brush off the mold with a soft, dry brush. Then, wipe the area with a cloth lightly dampened with a solution of equal parts water and isopropyl alcohol (70%), testing on an inconspicuous area first. Allow it to air dry completely away from direct sunlight, which can crack leather.

However, given the description of "black and green fuzzy spots" and the root cause being a past leak, this is likely a deeper issue. The mold on the jackets is a symptom of elevated humidity and possible mold growth within the closet and wall cavity itself, especially after the March rains. The persistent Dubai humidity will cause it to return unless the source moisture is addressed.

For the villa's health, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can use moisture meters to find hidden dampness in the walls and assess the closet's condition. Treating only the visible mold on surfaces without resolving the hidden moisture source is a temporary fix. A proper remediation process for the affected room, including the closet interior, is often needed to prevent recurrence and protect your belongings long-term.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 24, 2026 6:24 am