How to remove mold from leather and prevent humidity?« Back to Previous Page
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My bedroom closet in our Jumeirah apartment has started getting these black spots on the leather bags and shoes I stored in there. It’s been super humid the last few weeks and I’m worried it’s mold. What’s the best way to clean this off my leather items and what can I do to stop the humidity from building up in the closet again?
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Black spots on leather in a humid Jumeirah closet are almost certainly mold. First, move the affected items to a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent further growth and stop spores from spreading.
For cleaning, use a solution of 50/50 water and 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Dab it onto a soft, white cloth and gently wipe the mold off the leather. Never soak the leather. After wiping, let the items air dry completely away from direct sunlight, which can damage the material. For valuable items, a professional leather cleaner is the safest option to avoid discoloration or damage. To prevent recurrence, you must address the closet's humidity. In Dubai's climate, this is often due to condensation from the AC unit's cold air meeting the warm, stagnant air inside the closet. Ensure the closet is not overpacked, as this restricts airflow. Leave the closet door ajar for a few hours each day to allow conditioned air from the room to circulate and dehumidify the space. A small renewable desiccant like silica gel packs can help absorb excess moisture inside the closed space. If the problem persists, the issue may be more systemic. The closet could be a cold spot in the room, leading to constant condensation, or there may be a hidden leak. A professional inspection can identify the root cause, such as an AC supply vent issue or inadequate room sealing, which is a common finding in apartments here. They can use moisture meters to pinpoint the problem and recommend targeted solutions. |
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