Black mold in shower grout: DIY or professional fix?« Back to Previous Page

Small black spots in shower grout are common in Dubai due to the constant high humidity and condensation. For a surface-level issue covering less than one square foot, a DIY approach is often sufficient.

Use a dedicated grout cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water instead of bleach, as bleach only removes surface colour and can damage porous grout, allowing the mould to regrow from the roots. Scrub thoroughly, then improve ventilation by running the exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and wiping down wet surfaces.

If the mould has penetrated deeply, is widespread, or returns quickly after cleaning, the moisture source is likely behind the tiles. In villas, a weak exhaust fan often points to a blocked duct or an underpowered unit for the room's size. A professional assessment is needed to identify the root cause, which could be hidden leaks or insufficient ventilation. They can perform a moisture meter reading on the walls to check for trapped water. The fix may involve regrouting, resealing, or upgrading the ventilation system, not just surface cleaning. For a proper, lasting solution in such cases, requesting an on-site inspection is the recommended next step.