How to treat moldy leather and fix a damp closet?« Back to Previous Page

Our master bedroom closet in our Marina apartment is against an exterior wall, and I’ve just found a patch of black mold on my leather bags and shoes stored inside. The humid weather lately has been awful, and even with the AC running, that corner feels damp and cold. What’s the best way to treat the items and what can I do to permanently fix the moisture issue in that closet to stop this from happening again?
Posted by Jing Liu
Asked on April 27, 2026 7:40 am
Treat the moldy leather items by gently wiping them with a soft cloth dampened with a 50/50 solution of water and isopropyl alcohol. Do this in a well-ventilated area and allow them to air dry completely away from direct sunlight, which can damage the leather. For valuable items, a professional leather restorer is the safest option to prevent permanent damage.

The dampness in your Marina closet is a classic case of thermal bridging and condensation, very common here due to the extreme humidity and constant AC cooling. The cold exterior wall cools the closet's interior air, causing moisture to condense on your bags and shoes. Simply cleaning the mold won't stop it from returning.

To fix this, you need to increase air circulation and reduce the temperature differential. First, declutter the closet to allow air to move freely. Leave the closet door open for several hours each day. If possible, have a technician adjust your AC vents to ensure some conditioned air is directed into that space. For a more permanent solution, consider having a professional install a small, low-energy ductless fan inside the closet to constantly circulate air and prevent stagnant, damp conditions.

Since the mold is on personal items and the problem is persistent, a professional inspection can identify the exact humidity level and any hidden condensation points. They can provide data-driven solutions tailored to your apartment's layout, which is the only way to achieve a permanent fix in Dubai's climate.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 29, 2026 11:20 pm