How to remove closet mold and stop wall moisture?« Back to Previous Page

My bedroom closet on the outside wall has this awful black speckled mold growing on the back of my shoes and leather bags. I noticed it a couple of weeks ago when the humidity really spiked, and even though I run the AC constantly, the musty smell in that corner won't go away. What's the best way to not only clean this up but to stop the moisture from coming through the wall in the first place?
Posted by Emily King
Asked on March 31, 2026 6:35 pm
The issue you're describing is a classic symptom of a condensation and moisture problem, exacerbated by Dubai's high ambient humidity and the constant cooling from your AC unit. The black speckled mold is likely Stachybotrys or Aspergillus, both of which thrive in the persistent dampness created when warm, humid air meets a cold surface—in this case, your exterior wall.

To clean the affected items, first isolate them to prevent spore spread. For non-porous materials like leather, use a solution of detergent and warm water, or a specialized leather cleaner. For porous materials like some shoes, professional cleaning or disposal may be necessary, as spores can penetrate deeply.

However, cleaning alone is a temporary fix. The core issue is the moisture migration through the exterior wall and the resulting condensation. Simply running the AC is not a dehumidification strategy; it cools the air but can create more condensation on cold walls. The wall itself requires investigation. The problem could stem from inadequate insulation (a common issue where building codes may not require it on all exteriors), a compromised vapor barrier, or even a minor leak in the building envelope.

A professional inspection is critical. We use thermal imaging cameras to identify cold spots (thermal bridges) and precise moisture meters to quantify the dampness within the wall cavity. The permanent solution may involve injecting insulation, applying an interior vapor barrier coating, or improving ventilation in that specific area. All remediation work must comply with Dubai Municipality's health and safety regulations for environmental hazards.

For a thorough assessment and a permanent solution to the moisture intrusion, I strongly recommend you contact our team at Saniservice. Call us at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule a comprehensive inspection.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 3, 2026 6:32 pm