Can I remove closet mold myself or need a pro?« Back to Previous Page

My walk-in closet in our villa in Al Barsha has developed a really strong, musty smell that’s starting to get on all our clothes. It's been getting worse over the last few weeks, and I finally moved everything out to find a small patch of what looks like mold in the corner near the outside wall. I’ve tried cleaning it with bleach, but the smell just won’t go away. Is this something I can handle myself with a dehumidifier and some product from ACE, or should I just call a professional cleaning company to deal with it properly, and what would that kind of service typically cost?
Posted by John Wilson
Asked on April 9, 2026 4:25 pm
0
Based on your description, this is a classic case of mold growth exacerbated by the Dubai climate. The high humidity, combined with year-round AC usage that can create cold spots on exterior walls (a phenomenon known as thermal bridging), provides the perfect environment for mold. The persistent musty smell is a significant indicator that this is not just a surface issue; mold roots (hyphae) have likely penetrated the porous building materials.

While using bleach might seem effective, it only bleaches the visible surface growth and does not kill the root structure. It can also add excessive moisture, potentially worsening the problem. For a small, isolated patch, a thorough DIY cleaning with a dedicated EPA-approved fungicide from a store like ACE, coupled with a high-capacity dehumidifier to maintain humidity below 50%, could be attempted. However, your situation—with a strong, pervasive odor and growth on an exterior wall—strongly suggests a more serious moisture issue, possibly from a minor leak or condensation within the wall cavity.

We always recommend a professional inspection for cases like this. A certified expert will use thermal imaging and moisture meters to identify the hidden source of moisture, which is critical to preventing recurrence. Simply cleaning without fixing the root cause is a temporary solution. For a standard walk-in closet remediation that includes source identification, containment, professional-grade antimicrobial treatment, and odor neutralization, you could expect costs to start from approximately AED 1,500 to AED 3,000, depending on the extent of the damage.

To address this properly and safeguard your health and property, I advise contacting a specialist. Saniservice offers free consultations and can provide a precise diagnosis and quote. You can reach them at 800-66537 or hello@saniservice.com.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 12, 2026 10:40 am