Is poor indoor air quality making my kids sick?« Back to Previous Page

Since it rained heavily last month, I noticed a strange moldy smell lingering in the corner of our living room. My kids have been complaining of persistent coughs and runny noses, especially after being inside the house with the windows closed for extended periods. Could this be related to the indoor air quality, and if so, what steps can we take to improve it?
Posted by Laura Sanchez
Asked on December 31, 2025 6:12 pm
0
Indoor air quality can indeed play a significant role in the health of your family, especially for kids. The moldy smell and respiratory symptoms like coughing and runny noses that your children are experiencing could very well be linked to poor indoor air quality. In the UAE context, it’s not uncommon to see fluctuations in humidity levels due to weather changes and air conditioning systems, which can lead to moisture buildup and mold growth.

Firstly, you should definitely take these symptoms seriously as they can be indicative of respiratory issues like allergies or asthma. The heavy rainfall last month could have contributed significantly to the increased humidity indoors, creating an ideal environment for mold to grow. Mold spores can irritate the airways and trigger allergic reactions, especially in children.

It's recommended that you conduct a professional inspection by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. These experts will be able to assess your home for mold growth, identify moisture sources, and provide recommendations on how to address the issue.

In the meantime, you can take some immediate steps to improve indoor air quality:

1. Ventilation: Ensure that your house is well-ventilated. Open windows when possible, especially after rainfall, to allow fresh air in and reduce humidity levels.
2. Air Purifiers: Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter. This can help remove allergens, dust, and mold spores from the air.
3. Dehumidification: Use dehumidifiers, particularly in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms or basements. Aim for indoor humidity levels below 60%.
4. Regular Cleaning: Clean surfaces regularly to prevent mold growth. Pay special attention to corners where moisture might accumulate.
5. Check Leaks: Inspect your home for any leaks and fix them promptly. Water leakage can lead to excess moisture, fostering a breeding ground for molds.

Remember, while these steps can help improve indoor air quality, they are not substitutes for professional inspection and remediation. Addressing the root cause of mold growth is crucial to ensuring long-term health benefits for your family.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 2, 2026 5:01 pm