How can I prevent dampness and mustiness in my closet?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rains last month, I noticed a persistent dampness in my bedroom closet, which is right next to the laundry area. The shelves are full of clothes and shoes, but despite regular cleaning, the musty smell persists even after airing out everything. What steps can I take to ensure this doesn't happen again or how should I properly clean and dehumidify the space?
Posted by Petra Kaminski
Asked on December 27, 2025 11:14 pm
0
Cleaning up after the heavy rains last month sounds like it's been quite an ordeal. The persistent dampness and musty smell in your closet next to the laundry area can be frustrating, especially considering you've already cleaned everything regularly. Here are some steps that might help you address this issue and prevent future occurrences:

Firstly, it’s crucial to understand that in Dubai/UAE, like many places with humid climates, moisture management is key. The high humidity levels during certain times of the year can contribute significantly to dampness issues. So, let's start by ensuring proper ventilation. Open windows or use exhaust fans when doing laundry or showering to remove excess moisture from the air.

Next up, it’s important to assess and possibly improve your closet's drainage system if there is any. In UAE, properties are often designed with specific areas for water runoff during heavy rains. However, occasionally, these systems can be overwhelmed or become clogged over time. Consider calling a professional plumber to inspect your home’s plumbing and drainage, as this might be contributing to the dampness.

Another important step is to dry out any wet items immediately. If you notice that clothes are getting damp in the closet, take them out and air them outside when possible. This helps reduce moisture accumulation inside the closet. For shoes and other items that can’t easily be aired outdoors, use silica gel packets or desiccant bags which absorb excess humidity.

Dehumidifiers are also a great tool to keep around high-humidity areas like laundry rooms and closets. They’re particularly useful in UAE’s climate where humidity levels can fluctuate unpredictably. Ensure the dehumidifier is placed in an open area of your closet for optimal performance, making sure not to block any airflow.

Regular cleaning and inspection are also key. Vacuuming and dusting regularly helps remove mold spores and other allergens. Inspect shelves and walls for any signs of water damage or leaks which might be contributing to the dampness.

In serious cases where moisture issues persist despite these steps, it's recommended you call in a professional environmental inspection team such as Saniservice, who can provide a thorough assessment and offer specific remediation solutions if needed. You can reach out to them at 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information.

With these measures in place, your closet should be better protected against dampness and mustiness in the future. Remember, maintaining good indoor environmental quality is not only about comfort but also about health and safety.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 30, 2025 12:04 pm