Safely remove mold from closet with kids at home?« Back to Previous Page

Mold in a humid Dubai closet is common, especially with a suspected water leak. For a small patch (under 1 square meter), you can address it yourself carefully, but the health of your children makes safety the top priority.

First, isolate the area. Keep the closet door closed and seal the bottom gap with tape and plastic sheeting if possible. Ensure the room is well-ventilated by opening a window. You and any assisting adult must wear an N95 mask, gloves, and safety goggles. Do not let children or anyone with respiratory issues near the area during cleaning.

Mix a solution of one part distilled white vinegar to four parts water in a spray bottle. Avoid bleach, as it only removes the surface colour and can release harmful fumes in a confined space, especially when mixed with other cleaners. Vinegar is effective at killing many common household mold types. Spray the affected area thoroughly, let it sit for an hour, then scrub with a stiff-bristled brush. Wipe all residues away with damp cloths and dispose of all cleaning materials in a sealed bag.

Crucially, you must identify and fix the source of the moisture. The small leak in the ensuite bathroom must be repaired; otherwise, the mold will return quickly. Use a dehumidifier or run your AC continuously on dry mode to maintain humidity levels below 60%, which is critical in our climate to prevent regrowth.

Given the musty smell and your children's coughing, the mold may have released spores into the air. DIY cleaning addresses visible growth but not potential airborne contamination or hidden mold within the wall if the leak is persistent. For a situation involving family health and a potential leak, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can use moisture meters to find hidden dampness and air testing to confirm the environment is safe, providing you with documented results for peace of mind.