Is closet mold urgent or can I use vinegar?« Back to Previous Page

That's an urgent situation, not because of the current size of the spots, but because of the two symptoms combined: visible growth and a musty smell on stored items. In Dubai's climate, interior wall mold often indicates a hidden condensation issue, likely from the AC creating a cold surface on the other side of that wall.

You can attempt a small, contained area yourself. A vinegar solution can kill surface mold on non-porous surfaces, but it's ineffective on porous drywall or wood where roots penetrate. Scrub gently with a microfiber cloth to avoid spreading spores, and ensure the area is completely dry afterwards. However, this only addresses the symptom, not the source of the moisture.

Given the location and the smell, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. The mold you see is likely just the fruiting body; the main colony could be growing within the wall cavity. An expert will use a moisture meter to find the condensation source—often an AC supply line running through the closet or inadequate insulation. Without fixing the root cause, it will return quickly, especially with rising humidity.

For your clothes, the musty smell means spores are present. Wash them with a mold-inhibiting detergent and sun-dry them thoroughly if possible before storing them in airtight containers once you are certain the closet is remediated.