How can I reduce high humidity and prevent mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains we experienced last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell in my bedroom closet. The humidity level has been consistently high since then, even with the AC running at maximum capacity. My clothes are starting to develop mildew spots, and I'm worried about it affecting my health too. How can I effectively lower the humidity in this area of my home?
Posted by Sabine Weber
Asked on December 22, 2025 7:23 pm
High humidity levels can indeed lead to uncomfortable living conditions and pose health risks, particularly in the warm and humid climate of Dubai. The persistent musty smell you're experiencing along with the appearance of mildew spots on your clothes is a clear sign that the humidity level in your bedroom closet has escalated beyond comfortable thresholds.

Firstly, it's crucial to understand that maintaining an optimal relative humidity (RH) level within your home is essential for both comfort and health. In Dubai, the ideal range would be between 30-50%. However, given the recent heavy rains, your indoor RH might have soared into uncomfortable levels, often exceeding 60%.

To effectively address this issue, a multi-faceted approach should be considered:

1. Enhance Ventilation: Increase air circulation by opening windows when weather permits and using fans or exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is generated. This helps to reduce the RH in your home.

2. Use Dehumidifiers: For areas like your bedroom closet, portable dehumidifiers can be a very effective solution. Look for models with high-capacity settings that can effectively remove excess moisture from the air. Regularly empty and clean these units as per manufacturer instructions to ensure they continue to function optimally.

3. Air Conditioning Maintenance: While you mentioned running your AC at maximum capacity, it’s important to ensure that your system is functioning efficiently. Check for any blockages in filters or ducts which could reduce its effectiveness. Professional maintenance of your AC unit can also help improve performance and efficiency.

4. Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings where moisture might infiltrate your home. This can prevent additional water ingress from external sources and maintain better control over internal humidity levels.

5. Monitor RH Levels: Utilize a hygrometer to regularly check the RH in different parts of your home. This will help you understand which areas require more attention and whether current measures are effective.

6. Professional Inspection: Given the severity of the situation, it might be wise to seek professional advice. Contacting a certified environmental inspection company such as Saniservice (800-MOLDS or 800-66537) can provide you with expert guidance tailored to your specific home and its unique challenges.

In conclusion, by implementing these strategies, you should see significant improvements in reducing humidity levels within your home. However, if the problem persists despite your efforts, professional intervention is highly recommended to ensure that any underlying issues are addressed effectively.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 25, 2025 4:53 pm