Found mold behind wardrobe, is professional treatment needed?« Back to Previous Page

My kids’ bedroom in our villa in Al Barsha has had this damp, earthy smell ever since the heavy rains and humidity last month. I just pulled their wooden wardrobe away from the wall and found a patch of black and green fuzzy mold about the size of a dinner plate behind it. My youngest has been sneezing a lot lately, and now I’m worried. Is this something I need to get treated professionally immediately, or can I handle it myself with a vinegar solution this weekend?
Posted by Dong Sasaki
Asked on March 25, 2026 9:06 am
Based on your description, this situation requires immediate professional assessment and remediation. The combination of visible mold growth (especially the size of a dinner plate), the persistent earthy odor, and the correlation with your child's allergic symptoms indicates a significant moisture issue that has been developing for some time.

The dampness behind the wardrobe is a classic symptom of condensation, a prevalent issue in Dubai villas due to the high humidity and the constant use of air conditioning. The wall behind the furniture likely became a cold spot where moisture condensed, creating the perfect environment for mold to proliferate on the organic material of the wood and the wall. A DIY approach with vinegar is strongly discouraged. It may temporarily remove the visible surface growth but will not address the underlying moisture source or the hyphal roots embedded within the porous materials. Inadequate cleaning can aerosolize spores, potentially worsening your child's respiratory symptoms.

Under the Dubai Municipality public health and safety regulations, such extensive fungal growth in a residential property, particularly one affecting occupant health, necessitates a professional hygienization process. This involves a thorough inspection to identify the exact moisture source, precise air and surface sampling to determine the spore count and species, and a comprehensive remediation plan that includes containment, HEPA vacuuming, antimicrobial treatment, and disposal of severely contaminated porous materials like that wardrobe.

For the health of your family and to ensure the problem is resolved correctly, I recommend you contact a certified professional immediately. Please call Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com for a detailed inspection and a compliant remediation plan.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 26, 2026 9:09 pm