How to remove persistent mold from shower grout in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah Village Circle apartment for two years and just noticed black speckles growing along the grout in our master bathroom shower. It’s gotten worse over the last month, probably because of the humidity, and no matter how much I scrub with bleach, it comes right back. I'm worried it's behind the tiles. Should I just call a professional cleaning company like ServiceMarket, or is this something I can handle myself? What’s the average cost in Dubai to properly remove mold from a shower area?
Posted by Sophie Kaminski
Asked on May 5, 2026 6:57 pm
Persistent mold in shower grout is extremely common in Dubai due to the high ambient humidity and condensation from temperature changes between the air-conditioned home and the hot bathroom. Bleach only removes surface discoloration; it doesn't kill the root structure penetrating the porous grout.

For a recurring problem, start by improving ventilation. Run the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and ensure it is actually moving air (hold a tissue to the vent to check). Wiping down wet walls and squeegeeing glass after use can measurably reduce the moisture mold needs to grow. For cleaning, a dedicated grout brush and a paste of baking soda and vinegar or a commercial hydrogen peroxide-based mold cleaner can be more effective than bleach on non-porous surfaces.

If the mold returns within a week or you suspect it's behind the tiles (a soft, spongy feel or loose tiles are signs), professional assessment is needed. In many cases, the grout has failed and needs to be professionally removed and replaced to fully address a deep infestation. The cost for proper remediation varies significantly based on the shower's size and the extent of the work required, from surface cleaning to full regrouting and sealing. For an accurate assessment and quote, a certified mold inspector can identify the species and penetration depth.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 6, 2026 9:39 pm