Can I clean moldy clothes myself or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

Small black spots on clothes are often mildew, a surface mold common in Dubai's humid climate. You can clean this yourself if the fabric is sturdy and the growth is light.

First, take the affected clothes outside to brush off the loose spores. For washable fabrics like cotton sweaters, a hot wash with detergent can be effective. Adding white vinegar to the rinse cycle can help. For delicate items, sun-drying for several hours can kill surface mold—the UV rays are a natural disinfectant.

However, this only treats the symptom. The damp smell from your AC indicates high humidity levels inside the closet, likely from condensation or a poorly draining AC unit. This environment will cause mold to return. Wipe down the closet interior with a diluted vinegar solution and ensure your AC's condensate drain line is not blocked.

If the mold has deeply penetrated the material, left a persistent musty smell after cleaning, or if you experience respiratory irritation, the items may not be salvageable. For extensive contamination affecting many items or if the problem recurs despite your efforts, a professional inspection is warranted to identify and address the moisture source.