How to stop mold in closet and clean affected items?« Back to Previous Page
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My bedroom closet on the inside wall has started getting these black speckles on the leather bags and shoes I stored there, and it’s definitely mold. We’ve lived in this Jumeirah villa for two years and never had this issue until after the heavy rains in March. What’s the best way to clean my affected items and, more importantly, how can I stop the dampness from coming through that wall for good?
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The black speckles on leather are a classic sign of a surface mould issue, likely triggered by the post-rain humidity we had. First, address the items: take them outside and use a soft brush to remove the dry mould. Wipe leather down with a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water, then condition them afterwards to prevent drying. For fabric items, professional cleaning is often the safest bet to prevent spores from spreading.
The core issue is dampness in that wall. In Jumeirah villas, this is frequently due to water intrusion from the driving rain, often seeping through cracks in the external render or around window frames. It can also be exacerbated by the constant high humidity and the temperature differential between a cold, air-conditioned room and a warm exterior wall, leading to condensation inside the closet. Stopping it requires finding the moisture source. A professional inspection using a moisture meter and thermal imaging camera is the most effective way to pinpoint the exact entry point, whether it's a leak or condensation. For a permanent fix, the external wall may need to be inspected for cracks and re-sealed or waterproofed. Internally, improving air circulation around the closet is crucial; leave doors ajar and ensure your AC vents aren't blocked. A small desiccant dehumidifier inside the closet can help manage ambient humidity levels. Simply cleaning the mould will not stop it from returning if the underlying dampness isn't resolved. |
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