How to remove and prevent mold in external wall wardrobe?« Back to Previous Page

Your situation is a classic example of condensation mould, common in Dubai's high humidity. The external wall is likely cooler than the indoor air, causing moisture to condense inside the closed, unventilated wardrobe, creating a perfect environment for mould on organic materials like leather.

First, remove all affected items. For leather goods, wipe them down with a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% distilled water, then allow them to dry completely away from the closet. For the wardrobe itself, scrub the interior surfaces with a diluted detergent solution. Avoid bleach, as it only removes the colour and not the underlying mould structure. Thoroughly dry everything with a fan before returning items.

Prevention is key, as the root cause is the temperature differential and trapped humidity. Increase air circulation inside the wardrobe. Leave the doors slightly ajar for a few hours each day or install louvered doors. Use a renewable desiccant like silica gel inside the closet, ensuring you reactivate the crystals monthly as per the product instructions. For a more permanent solution, consider having a technician check if your AC's dehumidification function is operating correctly; sometimes constant running without proper cycling can contribute to the problem.

If the mould is extensive, has penetrated the drywall, or returns quickly after cleaning, the issue may be more serious. A professional inspection with moisture meters can determine if there's a hidden leak or significant insulation failure within the wall cavity, which is a common issue with built-in units on external walls in the UAE. They can provide a remediation plan based on lab analysis to identify the mould type and its potential health risks.