How to clean and prevent mold in humid AC home?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots behind the wardrobe are a classic sign of condensation mould, which is extremely common in Dubai villas during humid periods. The constant AC creates cold surfaces, and when humid air contacts them, it creates the damp environment mould needs to grow.

For cleaning, first address the immediate health concern: keep the kids out of the room, open windows if outdoor humidity is low (early morning or evening), and use an exhaust fan to ventilate. To remove the mould, wear an N95 mask and gloves. For non-porous surfaces like painted walls, scrub with a diluted detergent solution. Avoid bleach; it only removes the colour and can worsen indoor air quality without killing the root structure. For porous materials like drywall or the back of the wardrobe, cleaning is often insufficient, and replacement may be necessary to fully resolve the issue.

Preventing its return requires controlling humidity and eliminating condensation. First, ensure your AC unit is correctly sized and functioning efficiently; an overworked unit cools surfaces too much, leading to more condensation. Set your AC temperature no lower than 22-23°C to reduce the extreme temperature differential. Most importantly, use a dehumidifier in that room, especially during sleep hours, to keep relative humidity below 60%. Improve air circulation behind large furniture by moving it slightly away from the wall.

Given the persistent coughs and the visible growth, a professional inspection is highly recommended. They can identify the specific mould type through lab analysis and use moisture meters to find hidden dampness you can't see. This is crucial for ensuring the cleaning is effective and the remediation plan addresses the root cause, not just the visible symptoms.