Should I worry about musty smell in closet?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the closet in my bedroom. It’s been there ever since, even after drying everything out and airing it out multiple times. The smell is particularly strong when we open windows, but persists even with the doors closed. Have you experienced anything like this before, or should I talk to my landlord about it?
Posted by Hong Yamaguchi
Asked on March 8, 2026 11:41 am
The musty odor coming from your closet could be due to several factors including mold growth, dampness, and even some pest infestations. This situation is particularly common in areas like the UAE where we experience varying climatic conditions throughout the year. In Dubai, humidity levels can fluctuate significantly, especially after rain or during monsoon seasons.

The persistence of this smell even after drying out the area suggests that the underlying issue might be more than just a simple moisture problem. Mold thrives in damp environments and can produce characteristic musty odors as it breaks down organic matter. Given your location in Dubai, where humidity levels can sometimes reach uncomfortable highs, the possibility of mold growth is not negligible.

In such cases, it's advisable to conduct a thorough inspection by professionals who are familiar with local environmental conditions and regulations. The UAE has specific guidelines regarding indoor air quality (IAQ) that might be relevant here. For instance, the UAE Building Code requires regular inspections to ensure compliance with standards like those set by EN 13788 for IAQ.

To proceed, I recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection company. You can call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for assistance. They will be able to conduct detailed tests and provide a comprehensive report on the condition of your closet area. If necessary, they may also suggest remediation steps that could include cleaning processes, dehumidification systems installation, or even structural changes.

In the meantime, continue airing out the affected area by opening windows regularly. Use fans if possible to enhance air circulation. However, avoid using chemical sprays as these might exacerbate the problem and affect indoor air quality further.

If you decide to go ahead with a professional inspection, ensure that the service provider is accredited by relevant organizations such as the Dubai Municipality or similar local authorities in Abu Dhabi.

Always remember that addressing musty odors early can prevent more serious issues like structural damage from mold growth or health problems due to exposure to allergens and toxins produced by molds.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on March 9, 2026 5:54 pm