Is musty smell from dust storm harmful?« Back to Previous Page

After the recent dust storm, I noticed a persistent musty smell in my bedroom, especially when the windows are closed. The AC seems to be circulating more dust than usual too. My son has been complaining of coughing fits almost every night, which is really worrying me. How urgent should I address this issue to prevent any respiratory problems?
Posted by Hannah King
Asked on December 30, 2025 1:01 am
0
The musty smell from dust storms can indeed be concerning, especially when it comes to indoor air quality. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, we've seen an increase of such smells during periods of high dust activity due to regional weather patterns and seasonal changes.

In your case, you have a persistent musty odour coupled with an increase in dust circulation by your AC system, which is causing coughing fits for your son. This situation needs attention as it can contribute to respiratory issues, especially for children who are more susceptible to airborne irritants.

The UAE does not have specific regulations targeting musty smells directly, but the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has stringent guidelines on indoor air quality which indirectly cover these issues. It's important to ensure that your home environment is as clean and healthy as possible during such times.

I would highly recommend you contact a professional environmental inspection company like Saniservice for an assessment. They can provide a thorough check of your home’s air quality, identifying the source of the musty smell and dust levels. This will help in formulating a targeted cleaning and remediation plan to improve indoor air quality and protect your family's health.

Until then, you can take some immediate steps:
• Increase ventilation by opening windows when possible, even during the storm.
• Use HEPA filters in your AC system or consider adding one if not already installed.
• Regularly clean surfaces where dust may accumulate like window sills, furniture, and floors using microfiber cloths which trap more dust than regular ones.
• Dust and vacuum regularly, focusing on areas with higher accumulation of dust.

Call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a professional inspection if the situation doesn’t improve. Remember, early action can prevent bigger problems down the line and ensure your family's comfort and health during such periods.

Stay alert to changes in indoor air quality and take proactive measures to keep your home safe and healthy!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 31, 2025 8:20 am