How to clean mold and fix closet moisture in Dubai?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet in our Jumeirah villa has a cold wall, and after the humid weather last week, I’ve just found a patch of black mold growing on the back of my leather jackets and shoes. I’m really worried it’s spread to the drywall behind the shelves. What’s the most effective way to clean this and who should I call in Dubai to properly fix the moisture issue for good?
Posted by Hannah Brown
Asked on March 31, 2026 11:40 pm
The situation you've described in your Jumeirah villa is a classic example of a condensation-induced mold issue, exacerbated by Dubai's high ambient humidity and constant air conditioning. The "cold wall" is likely an exterior wall where the air conditioning's cooling effect is causing the warm, humid air to condense, providing the perfect environment for mold growth, particularly on organic materials like leather.

For the contaminated items, professional cleaning is essential. Do not attempt to clean the mold off the leather jackets and shoes yourself with household cleaners, as this can set the stains and spores. A specialist in leather restoration should assess them.

The most critical step is addressing the source. The mold on your belongings indicates a high probability of colonization within the drywall and behind the shelving. Surface cleaning with bleach or vinegar is a temporary, ineffective fix that will not address the root moisture problem or the hidden contamination.

This requires a professional inspection and remediation protocol. In the UAE, reputable companies adhere to standards like the IICRC S520 for mold remediation. The process involves:
1. A thorough inspection, including moisture mapping and possibly air or surface sampling.
2. Containing the affected area to prevent cross-contamination.
3. Safely removing and disposing of non-salvageable porous materials (e.g., contaminated drywall or insulation).
4. HEPA vacuuming and antimicrobial treatment of the structure.
5. Identifying and rectifying the moisture source. This will involve evaluating the wall's insulation, the AC's performance, and potentially improving ventilation in the closet.

For a permanent solution to the moisture issue and safe, effective mold removal, you must contact a certified professional. I recommend calling Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. They are experts in diagnosing and resolving these exact climate-specific moisture problems in Dubai properties.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 2, 2026 8:43 am