How to safely remove black mold and check health symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed a patch of black mold in the corner of our master bedroom closet, behind some clothes. It must have been there a while because my husband has had a persistent stuffy nose and headaches for months that we couldn't figure out. What’s the safest and most effective way to clean this ourselves, and should we see a specific type of doctor to check if his symptoms are related?
Posted by Daniel Wright
Asked on April 10, 2026 5:00 pm
For a small patch (under 1 square meter), you can clean it yourself safely. Wear an N95 mask, gloves, and goggles. Mix a solution of one part white vinegar to four parts water or a diluted detergent. Scrub the area thoroughly, then dry it completely with a fan. Never mix bleach with other cleaners, as it can create toxic fumes.

The persistent symptoms you describe are common with prolonged mold exposure. A visit to an allergist or an ENT specialist would be wise; they can perform tests to determine if mold is the specific irritant. Documenting the mold with photos for the doctor can be helpful.

In Dubai's climate, mold grows due to high humidity and condensation, often from AC units creating cold spots on walls. Simply cleaning the visible mold may not be a permanent fix if the underlying moisture source isn't addressed. This is often a hidden leak or poor insulation.

For a situation that has been ongoing and where health is affected, a professional inspection is recommended. They use moisture meters and thermal cameras to find the hidden source of the moisture feeding the mold. Without fixing that, the mold will almost certainly return. A lab test can also identify the specific type of mold, which helps assess the potential risk level and confirms the cleanup was effective.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 13, 2026 12:17 am