How to permanently treat mold in my bedroom closet?« Back to Previous Page

The black speckles on your leather items are a classic sign of a wall-based mold issue, exacerbated by Dubai's high humidity. In older Deira buildings, this often stems from condensation forming on the cooler exterior walls behind the closet, creating a perfect environment for growth. Simply cleaning the visible mold is a temporary fix.

Start by moving all affected items out of the closet to prevent further contamination. For the wall, a solution of white vinegar or a dedicated mold-cleaning product can be used on non-porous surfaces. However, for porous materials like drywall or plaster, surface cleaning is insufficient as the mold's root system penetrates deeply. The wall may need to be professionally treated or replaced to truly solve the problem.

The permanent solution requires controlling the humidity. Since the closet is on an exterior wall, ensure it is not crammed full; allow air to circulate around the back wall. Leave the closet doors open periodically. A small, portable dehumidifier placed inside the closet can make a significant difference, especially during the more humid months. For your leather goods, wipe them down with a vinegar solution, allow them to dry completely, and store them elsewhere until the wall is resolved.

Given the building's age and the location, a professional inspection is highly recommended. They can use a moisture meter to identify the exact condensation levels within the wall and perform air or swab testing to identify the mold species, which is crucial for determining the correct remediation protocol and ensuring it doesn't return.