Black mold in closet: clean myself or call maintenance?« Back to Previous Page

Black fuzzy spots in a closet after heavy fog are a classic sign of condensation-related mold growth, common in Dubai's climate. The damp feeling in the room confirms high humidity is trapped there, likely against a cold exterior wall.

For a small, surface-level area you can see, you can clean it yourself. Wear a mask and gloves. Use a diluted vinegar or detergent solution, scrub the visible mold off the surface, and ensure the area is thoroughly dried. Discard any heavily affected porous items like cardboard boxes. However, if the mold has penetrated porous materials like drywall or is behind the clothes and walls, cleaning the surface is ineffective and can disturb spores.

Given the description of it spreading and the persistent dampness, the mold is likely more extensive behind the wall. This requires professional assessment. Building maintenance should be your first call; they are responsible for the building envelope and structural issues. They can identify if the problem is a leak or insufficient insulation causing condensation. For a definitive identification of the mold type and a remediation plan, a specialist inspection with air and surface sampling is recommended. They use lab analysis to determine the species and the proper protocol, which is crucial for hidden mold. The goal is to find and fix the moisture source, not just wipe the visible spots.