Can I remove black mold myself or need a pro?« Back to Previous Page

The AC in my bedroom closet has been leaking a bit, and now I’ve spotted a patch of black mold on the back wall and on a few of my shoes. It’s been getting worse over the last couple of weeks since the humidity shot up. Is this something I can tackle myself with a vinegar spray from the supermarket, or do I need to call in a professional cleaning company?
Posted by Timothy Lewis
Asked on April 6, 2026 9:45 am
Based on the symptoms you've described—black mold growth due to an AC leak in a closet, affecting porous materials like shoes—this is a situation that strongly warrants a professional assessment. In Dubai's high-humidity climate, AC units are a primary source of condensation and subsequent mold growth if not properly maintained.

While a small, surface-level patch on a non-porous wall might be addressed with a dedicated fungicide, your case has complicating factors. The mold has infiltrated porous materials (your shoes), indicating a deeper contamination. DIY solutions like vinegar or supermarket sprays are often ineffective against resilient mold species, such as Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), and only address surface discoloration, not the root cause or hidden hyphae. More critically, the source is an active water intrusion from the AC unit. Without professionally identifying and rectifying this moisture source, any cleaning is temporary and the mold will return, often more aggressively.

Furthermore, improper DIY remediation can aerosolize spores, spreading the contamination to other areas of your bedroom and potentially causing health issues. For a situation involving HVAC systems and personal belongings, a certified inspection is essential to determine the full extent of the contamination, identify the mold species, and implement a safe, effective remediation protocol that includes moisture control, containment, and proper disposal.

For a definitive solution and to ensure your indoor air quality is safe, I recommend contacting our team at Saniservice for a comprehensive inspection. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. We can diagnose the AC leak, assess the contamination, and provide a certified remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 9, 2026 3:43 am