Mold in closet: clean myself or call a professional?« Back to Previous Page

Small, isolated spots in a closet are often a surface issue from high humidity and poor air circulation, which is common in Dubai. You can attempt to clean it yourself.

For a small area (under one square foot), use distilled white vinegar, not bleach. Bleach only removes surface colour and doesn't address the moisture source or kill the roots. Spray undiluted vinegar, let it sit for an hour, then scrub with a brush and wipe clean. Ensure the area is completely dry afterwards.

The real priority is identifying the moisture source. In a closet, it's typically condensation from an adjacent cold wall (like an external wall with an AC unit outside) or lack of airflow. Move stored items away from the wall, leave the closet door open regularly, and consider a small desiccant dehumidifier inside.

Call a professional for an inspection if the spots return quickly after cleaning, if the affected area is larger than a square foot, if you notice a musty odour, or if the drywall feels soft or damp, indicating possible moisture within the wall itself. A professional assessment with moisture meters can determine if there's a hidden leak or condensation issue that needs addressing to prevent structural damage. In many older Dubai buildings, this type of condensation-related mold is a frequent finding.