How to permanently stop mold in a Dubai walk-in closet?« Back to Previous Page

We’ve lived in our villa in Al Barsha for two years, but ever since the humidity kicked in a few weeks ago, our walk-in closet on the ground floor has started smelling really damp and I just found a few black spots in the corner behind some shoes. I’m worried it’s going to spread to our clothes. What’s the most effective way to stop this mold from coming back for good?
Posted by Petra Ricci
Asked on May 4, 2026 2:55 pm
Mold in ground-floor Dubai closets is common due to high humidity and condensation from AC units. Permanent prevention requires controlling moisture, not just cleaning the visible spots.

First, address the immediate issue. The black spots behind the shoes indicate a localized moisture problem. Remove all items from the closet. For hard surfaces, a solution of diluted white vinegar can be effective for small areas. However, this only addresses the surface growth.

To stop it from returning, you must find and control the moisture source. In a ground-floor villa closet, common culprits are an external wall with inadequate insulation (leading to condensation) or a nearby AC unit whose cold air supply is causing the warm, humid air to condense inside the closet. Ensure the closet door is left ajar regularly to allow air circulation. A small, standalone dehumidifier placed inside can make a significant difference in pulling excess moisture from the air.

For a permanent solution, a professional inspection is often necessary. They can use thermal imaging to identify hidden cold spots causing condensation and measure the humidity levels within the wall cavity. Remediation may involve improving insulation on the external wall, adjusting the AC ductwork or supply to that room, or installing a more powerful ventilation system.

Without tackling the root cause—the excess moisture—the mold will almost certainly return, especially during the humid summer months.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 5, 2026 7:18 am