How to fix mold in closet and prevent it?« Back to Previous Page
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Our master bedroom closet, which is on an interior wall, has a persistent damp smell. It's been like this for about a month now, even though it's been crazy hot outside. I just pulled out some winter jackets and found a few of them have small patches of black spots. I run the AC constantly, so I'm confused. What's the best way to deal with this and stop it from coming back?
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This is a classic Dubai issue caused by the interaction of constant AC and high ambient humidity. Your AC cools the air inside the closet, but the interior wall likely lacks proper insulation. When warm, humid air from the rest of the house seeps in, it hits the cold surface and condenses, creating the damp environment mold needs to grow, even during hot weather.
First, address the existing mold. For small patches on hard surfaces, a solution of white vinegar or a diluted bleach cleaner can be effective. For porous materials like drywall or the jackets themselves, professional cleaning or disposal is often necessary to remove the spores entirely. Bag and remove any contaminated items immediately to prevent further spread. To stop it from returning, you need to control moisture and airflow. Increase air circulation in the closet by not overpacking it and leaving a small gap between the wall and your items. Consider installing a battery-operated dehumidifier or moisture absorber like silica gel packs inside. For a permanent fix, a professional inspection can identify if the wall cavity has a more serious condensation issue or requires better insulation. They can also verify the mold type, as some species common in the region are more persistent and require specific remediation protocols. |
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