How to treat and prevent closet damp smell for good?« Back to Previous Page

My bedroom closet, which is on an interior wall, has started to get a really strong damp smell, especially on my leather bags and shoes. We’ve lived in this Marina apartment for a few years and it’s always been fine, but it got much worse after the heavy dew last month. I'm worried it's mold and it's going to ruin my things and spread. What's the most effective way to treat this and prevent it from coming back for good?
Posted by Michael Garcia
Asked on May 20, 2026 12:00 am
The damp smell in your closet is likely mold growth, a common issue in Dubai's climate due to high humidity and condensation from AC systems. Interior walls can trap cool air, creating a pocket of high humidity perfect for mold, especially after periods of heavy dew.

First, remove all items from the closet. Wipe down all surfaces with a solution of white vinegar or a dedicated mold-cleaning product. Leather items should be professionally cleaned to prevent damage. The closet must be completely dry before returning anything. For severe or recurring smells, a professional inspection is recommended to identify hidden mold or moisture sources within the wall itself.

To prevent recurrence, improve air circulation. Leave the closet door ajar and ensure AC vents are not blocked. A small desiccant dehumidifier or moisture absorber placed inside the closet can help significantly. Maintain your AC unit properly, as a poorly functioning unit contributes to excess indoor humidity. In many Marina apartments, ensuring your AC drain line is not clogged and the drip pan is functioning is critical.

For a permanent solution, the root cause of the moisture must be addressed. This may require a humidity assessment to determine if the issue is localized to the closet or a symptom of a larger indoor air quality problem in the apartment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 20, 2026 8:02 am