How to clean mold from bags and stop it returning?« Back to Previous Page

Start by moving the affected items away from the damp area to prevent further contamination. For leather bags and shoes, wipe the mold off with a soft cloth slightly dampened with a solution of equal parts water and 70% isopropyl alcohol; test on an inconspicuous area first. For fabric items, a gentle brushing outdoors to remove spores followed by a specialized fabric cleaner is best. Never use bleach, as it can damage materials and doesn't prevent regrowth.

The root cause is the AC leak and the resulting high humidity in that enclosed space. Simply cleaning the items won't stop the mold from returning. You must first repair the AC unit's drip pan or drain line to stop the moisture source. Then, the closet and any surrounding building materials affected by the water leak need to be professionally assessed and dried. In Dubai's climate, where indoor humidity can spike, this enclosed space became a perfect breeding ground.

To prevent recurrence after the leak is fixed, improve air circulation in the closet. Leave the door ajar occasionally and consider a small, portable desiccant dehumidifier for that area. For severe or recurring mold, a professional inspection is recommended to check for hidden growth within the walls or AC system itself, which is common here after a leak.