Can I clean this recurring mold or need a professional?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in our bedroom has been leaking a bit and now we’ve found a patch of black spots spreading on the wall behind the wardrobe. I tried wiping it with vinegar but it came back worse a week later. Is this something I can tackle myself with a stronger cleaner, or do I need to call a professional mold inspector to check inside the walls?
Posted by Dong Zhou
Asked on March 19, 2026 1:11 am
Based on your description, this is a classic and serious case of hidden mold growth, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity and constant AC use. The recurring black spots are a significant red flag. The leak from your AC unit has almost certainly saturated the wall cavity and the area behind the wardrobe, creating a perfect, dark, and moist environment for mold to thrive. The fact that it returned worse after a DIY vinegar treatment is a clear indicator that the moisture source is active and the root colony is deep within the building materials.

Vinegar or stronger surface cleaners are completely insufficient here. They only remove the superficial, visible spores (the "fruit" of the mold) while leaving the established hyphae (the "roots") intact within the gypsum board or concrete. Disturbing it improperly can aerosolize a high concentration of spores, worsening your indoor air quality and potentially causing health issues.

In the UAE, addressing the root cause is mandatory. Dubai Municipality regulations emphasize the importance of professional remediation to ensure occupant health and prevent structural damage. This situation requires a certified mold inspection. Our process involves using moisture meters and borescopes to assess the extent of water damage inside the wall, followed by air and surface sampling to identify the specific mold species and concentration levels. This data is crucial to developing a safe and effective remediation protocol, which will include isolating the area, removing contaminated porous materials like drywall, and using industrial-grade HEPA filtration to clean the air.

For a problem of this nature, with a known ongoing moisture source and recurrent growth, a professional assessment is not just recommended; it is essential. I strongly advise you to cease DIY efforts and contact our team for a comprehensive inspection.

Call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a diagnostic assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 21, 2026 11:34 am