How to treat and prevent closet damp smell in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

First, remove all items from the closet and wipe down the affected leather goods with a diluted vinegar or specialized leather cleaner to halt the mould growth. For the wall itself, a solution of diluted white vinegar or a dedicated mould remover can be used on the spots. Dry everything thoroughly before returning items.

The damp smell and spots are almost certainly due to condensation forming on that outer wall, a common issue in Jumeirah apartments. This happens when the humid outdoor air meets the cooler wall surface cooled by your air conditioning. The recent humid spell exacerbated this.

To prevent recurrence, you must address the moisture source. Improve air circulation inside the closet by leaving the door ajar periodically or using a small battery-operated dehumidifier or moisture absorber like silica gel packs. Ensure your AC is serviced and draining correctly, as a faulty unit can elevate indoor humidity. For that specific wall, check for any cracks in the external sealant that might be allowing moisture ingress; this is a frequent issue after Dubai's summer heat.

If the smell persists after cleaning or the spots reappear quickly, the mould may have penetrated the wall material itself. In such cases, a professional inspection with moisture meters and thermal imaging can identify the exact condensation points or hidden leaks. Lab testing of a swab can confirm the mould type, which is important for ensuring the correct remediation method is used, especially since some species common in the region can be more persistent.