How to remove and prevent mold in a humid bathroom?« Back to Previous Page

My ensuite bathroom in my Jumeirah Village Circle apartment has had this musty smell for weeks, and I finally found black spots growing in the grout between the wall tiles. It's the bathroom my two young kids use, so they shower almost every night. I run the exhaust fan, but the humidity just doesn't seem to go away. What's the most effective way to kill the existing mold and what can I do to prevent it from coming back for good?
Posted by Marie Russo
Asked on May 23, 2026 7:25 pm
The most effective way to kill existing mold is to first address the moisture source. For surface mold on grout, a paste of baking soda and water or a diluted vinegar solution scrubbed onto the area can be effective. For persistent growth, a hydrogen peroxide-based cleaner is often more reliable than bleach, which only removes surface discoloration.

Prevention is critical in Dubai's climate. Your exhaust fan must run for at least 30 minutes after every shower to remove the humid air. Check its effectiveness by holding a tissue to the vent; if it doesn't hold, the fan may be underpowered or the duct blocked. Wiping down wet tiles and the shower screen with a squeegee after use removes the immediate moisture mold needs to grow.

In many JVC apartments, the underlying issue is poor ventilation combined with AC systems that may not be managing humidity effectively. If the musty smell persists after cleaning and the mold returns quickly, there could be a hidden moisture problem behind the tiles. For recurring issues, especially with young children using the space, a professional inspection can identify the root cause, such as a leaking pipe or insufficient ventilation, which DIY cleaning cannot solve.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on May 25, 2026 2:39 pm