Can I remove stubborn bathroom mold myself or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

My ensuite bathroom in our Jumeirah apartment has this stubborn black mold growing in the grout between the wall tiles, especially behind the toilet where it's a bit damp. It’s been getting worse since the humidity really kicked in a couple of months ago. I tried scrubbing it with bleach spray, but it just comes back after a few days. Is this something I can fix myself with a stronger product, or should I just call a professional cleaning company to handle it?
Posted by Kevin Taylor
Asked on March 30, 2026 4:00 am
Based on the conditions you've described in your Jumeirah apartment, this is a very common issue we encounter in Dubai. The persistent high humidity, especially during the summer months, combined with condensation from year-round air conditioning use, creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, particularly in poorly ventilated areas like bathrooms.

While surface cleaning with bleach can remove the visible stain temporarily, it does not address the root cause or the hyphal roots of the mold, which penetrate deep into the porous grout. This is why the growth returns so quickly. For a small, surface-level patch, a targeted application of a professional-grade, EPA-approved fungicidal cleaner (not a generic supermarket bleach spray) can be attempted, but it requires strict safety precautions including PPE.

However, the location "behind the toilet where it's a bit damp" is a significant red flag. This persistent dampness suggests a potential underlying issue that a simple cleaning cannot fix. The source could be micro-fractures in the grout allowing moisture ingress, a small leak from the toilet's seal or supply line, or moisture wicking from the slab due to the unique construction methods in UAE high-rises. Attempting to clean it repeatedly without identifying and rectifying the moisture source is a futile exercise.

Given the stubborn and recurring nature of the mold, I strongly recommend a professional inspection. Our certified inspectors use moisture meters and borescopes to identify the exact source of the moisture. Remediation then involves not only the safe removal of the contaminated grout but also addressing the dampness problem to ensure it does not return. For a permanent solution, please call our experts at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a comprehensive assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 1, 2026 4:26 pm