Should I tackle basement mold myself?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had a few weeks ago, I noticed an awful musty smell coming from the basement. It's quite damp down there and it looks like there’s a layer of fine dust that has settled on everything. I’m not sure if I can tackle this myself or if I need to call in professionals. Could someone with experience share their advice?
Posted by Brittany Robinson
Asked on February 2, 2026 12:59 am
0
Cleaning smart ain't a walk in the park, especially when talkin' 'bout basements where moisture issues can be rife. In Dubai and the UAE, we've seen first-hand how an unexpected dust storm like the one you mentioned can lead to serious environmental concerns, especially when it comes to mold growth.

First things first, if you're smokin' that musty smell from your basement, it's time for a professional inspection. Mold ain't no joke; in the UAE, there are specific regulations that mandate proper handling and removal of mold, which can be tricky without the right expertise. I'd recommend callin' 800-MOLDS or emailin' hello@saniservice.com so they can come out an assess the situation.

Now, if you do decide to take on this task yourself, here's what ya gotta know:

1. Start by ventilatin' and dryin' the space as much as possible. Open windows (if it's not too humid outside), use dehumidifiers or fans to draw moisture away from the walls and floor.

2. Wear protective gear such as gloves, a mask, and goggles before startin'. You want to avoid inhalin' spores that can cause health issues.

3. Clean surfaces with a mix of water and bleach at a ratio o' one part bleach to 10 parts water (always wear a mask when usin' bleach). Scrub away the dirt an' dust, then rinse thoroughly.

4. For tougher areas like corners or behind furniture, you might need to use a wet vac or a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner to remove any settled spores that could be in the carpet or floor tiles.

5. After cleanin', it's crucial to ensure proper ventilation and humidity control to prevent mold from growin' back. Consider installin' dehumidifiers or air conditioners, especially during humid months like August here in Dubai.

Remember, while DIY solutions are handy, they might not always be sufficient, especialy when the situation is more severe. Gettin' a professional inspection and remediation service can save you time, money, an' potential health issues down the line. So don't hesitate to reach out if you're feelin' overwhelmed or unsure.

Hope this helps!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 6, 2026 9:22 am