How to stop moisture in closet damaging leather items?« Back to Previous Page

Ground-floor apartments in older Jumeirah buildings are particularly susceptible to moisture intrusion from outside walls, especially during the high-humidity months. The black spots are almost certainly mold feeding on the organic materials in your leather goods due to this persistent dampness.

First, immediately remove all affected items from the closet. Wipe down leather with a dry, soft cloth and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated, air-conditioned room—do not place them in direct sunlight as this can damage the leather. For the closet itself, thoroughly clean all surfaces with a solution of white vinegar or a dedicated mold-cleaning product to remove the visible growth.

To stop the moisture long-term, you must address the source. The most effective DIY approach is to improve air circulation. Leave the closet doors open and use a small portable dehumidifier or a fan inside it to keep air moving. Ensure your apartment's AC is running consistently, as it acts as a whole-home dehumidifier. Check for any obvious cracks or gaps in the wall where outside moisture could be seeping in and seal them with appropriate caulking.

However, if the problem is structural moisture penetration from the outside, which is common in our climate, these measures may only be a temporary fix. For a permanent solution, a professional inspection is recommended to identify the exact moisture source—whether it's capillary rise from the ground, a leaking pipe within the wall, or insufficient external waterproofing. They can then advise on the necessary remediation, which could involve internal sealing or addressing the building's exterior envelope. In many cases, resolving this requires working with your building management.