Is a musty smell in my closet urgent?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a musty smell in my bedroom closet, even though it’s not used very often. The humidity seems to be much higher than usual, and I’ve been coughing quite a bit lately too. How urgent is this issue, and what can we do to address it quickly?
Posted by Emily Scott
Asked on December 11, 2025 7:44 am
The presence of a musty smell in your closet is indicative of an elevated humidity level, which can indeed be concerning. In the UAE, particularly in regions like Dubai, high humidity levels are relatively uncommon and could suggest underlying issues that need to be addressed promptly.

High relative humidity (RH) above 70% for extended periods can create conditions conducive to mold growth, even in areas of your home not often used or visible. Mold spores thrive in such environments and can lead to various health concerns, including respiratory issues like coughing which you’ve been experiencing.

In the UAE context, it's crucial to understand that humidity levels can fluctuate significantly due to climatic conditions as well as building characteristics. The high RH can be attributed to factors like recent rainfall affecting your home’s environment or even local construction practices that may not have adequate moisture management systems in place.

Given these circumstances, it is advisable to undertake a professional environmental inspection to confirm the presence of mold and assess the extent of any water damage issues. This is especially important as per UAE building regulations which mandate regular inspections for maintaining indoor air quality and ensuring occupant health.

You should consider calling 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com at your earliest convenience. A certified professional can help in assessing the situation, recommend appropriate remediation steps, and provide guidance on long-term solutions to prevent recurrence of such issues.

In the meantime, here are some practical actions you can take:
1. Increase ventilation: Open windows when possible or use exhaust fans to reduce moisture.
2. Use dehumidifiers: These can be particularly effective in damp areas like closets.
3. Check for leaks: Inspect your plumbing and roof for any signs of water intrusion that could be contributing to the high humidity.

Remember, addressing these issues early on is key to maintaining a healthy indoor environment in Dubai’s climate.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 12, 2025 9:00 am