Mold in bathroom: DIY clean or call a pro?« Back to Previous Page

We've lived in our Jumeirah apartment for 2 years and just noticed black spots growing along the grout in our windowless master bathroom. The AC seems to run constantly but the room never feels completely dry, and there's a persistent damp smell. For a problem like this in a standard-sized bathroom, should I just try a bleach clean myself, or is it better to call in a professional—and what’s the typical cost for that here?
Posted by Reem Al-Nahyan
Asked on April 27, 2026 2:05 pm
Bathroom mold in Dubai is often due to the high humidity and constant AC use creating condensation, especially in windowless rooms. For a small area confined to the grout lines, a DIY clean can be a good first step.

Use a dedicated fungicidal cleaner, not just bleach. Bleach only removes surface color and is ineffective on porous surfaces like grout. Scrub thoroughly and ensure the room is ventilated afterward. The key is not just cleaning but fixing the moisture source. Run the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and wipe down wet surfaces.

If the mold returns quickly, the smell persists, or you see it spreading to drywall or ceilings, a professional assessment is recommended. This indicates a deeper issue, like moisture trapped within the walls or a problem with the AC drain pan or condensate removal. Professionals use moisture meters and borescopes to find hidden dampness. The cost for remediation here varies significantly; it's a fraction of the price for a simple grout treatment and sealing compared to the cost for addressing a more serious hidden leak, which would require a full assessment to quote accurately.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 30, 2026 9:15 am