How to remove mold from leather and prevent closet humidity?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet in our Jumeirah villa has developed small black spots on the leather bags and shoes I stored in there. It’s been super humid the last few weeks and I think the lack of air circulation is to blame. What’s the most effective way to clean the affected items and what kind of dehumidifier or moisture absorber would you recommend for a closed space like that to stop it from happening again?
Posted by Omar Al-Farsi
Asked on April 19, 2026 9:10 am
Start by isolating the affected leather items from the rest of your closet to prevent cross-contamination. For cleaning, use a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% distilled water. Dab it gently onto the mould spots with a soft, clean cloth—never soak the leather. Allow it to air dry completely away from direct sunlight, which can damage the material. For valuable items, consulting a professional leather restoration service is the safest course to avoid permanent damage.

The root cause is the humid, stagnant air, a common issue in sealed closets here, especially during Dubai's summer. A small, electric desiccant dehumidifier is the most effective solution for an enclosed space like a closet, as they perform well in the typical UAE AC-cooled temperatures. Alternatively, silica gel-based moisture absorber pods can help, but they require frequent replacement in our high-humidity climate and are less powerful.

To prevent recurrence, improve air circulation. Leave the closet doors ajar periodically and ensure your room's AC is servicing the space adequately; sometimes a slight adjustment of the vents can make a significant difference. If the mould growth is extensive or you detect a persistent musty smell, a professional inspection can identify hidden moisture sources and assess the air quality. For closets backing onto bathrooms or external walls, condensation can be an ongoing issue that requires targeted solutions.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 19, 2026 5:17 pm