How to prevent mold in a rarely used bathroom?« Back to Previous Page

My bathroom in our Jumeirah apartment has had this musty smell for weeks, and I finally found black spots growing along the grout between the wall tiles. It’s the guest bathroom we barely use, so the AC vent in there is always closed and it feels damp all the time. What’s the best long-term solution to stop this mold from coming back, especially with our humid weather? Should I be keeping that AC vent open even when the room isn't in use?
Posted by Hannah Johnson
Asked on May 11, 2026 3:50 am
The closed AC vent is the main issue. In Dubai's climate, bathrooms need constant air circulation to combat high humidity. Even unused rooms require their AC on with the vent open to remove moisture and prevent condensation.

Start by having the existing mold properly identified. While surface cleaning with a vinegar or hydrogen peroxide solution can remove visible growth, the species matters for health risks and remediation approach. For a persistent issue in grout, a professional inspection can determine if moisture has penetrated behind the tiles.

For long-term prevention, keep the bathroom's AC vent permanently open and set the thermostat to a consistent temperature, ideally around 24°C, to maintain dry conditions. Run the exhaust fan during and for at least 30 minutes after any shower. Wipe down all wet surfaces immediately and leave the bathroom door open to encourage airflow. Consider placing a small desiccant dehumidifier in the room if the dampness persists.

These measures manage the humidity that allows mold to thrive. If the mold returns quickly despite these actions, the underlying cause may be a hidden leak or insufficient waterproofing, which requires a professional assessment.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 13, 2026 2:29 pm