Is stale smell linked to kids' coughs?« Back to Previous Page

Since we moved into our new flat a few months ago, I’ve noticed an odd, stale smell lingering in the living room, especially during warmer days. My kids have been complaining of coughing fits more frequently lately, which has me really worried about indoor air quality here. Is there anything I can do to improve the air in my home or figure out what might be causing these issues?
Posted by Joseph Martinez
Asked on January 8, 2026 3:38 am
0
The stale smell and kids' coughs could be linked. In the UAE, particularly Dubai, indoor air quality can sometimes be affected by various factors like humidity levels, lack of proper ventilation, or presence of contaminants from building materials used during construction.

Firstly, it's important to understand that a stale odor can stem from poor air circulation in your flat. This is especially common in new buildings where the air hasn't had time to fully circulate and any residues from paint, glue, or other building materials might still be present. These chemicals, known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can off-gas and contribute to that stale smell.

Regarding kids coughing, it’s not uncommon for respiratory issues in children to increase when they're exposed to poor indoor air quality. The symptoms you've noticed could also indicate other potential irritants like dust mites, pet dander, mold growth, or even allergens from plants or cleaning products used within the flat.

To address these concerns, I’d recommend a few steps:

1. Increase Ventilation: Open windows whenever possible to allow fresh air into your living room. Using an exhaust fan can help too if there's no direct window access.
2. Humidity Control: Ensure you have a dehumidifier in the flat as high humidity levels can promote mold growth, which might be contributing to the stale smell and causing coughs.
3. Regular Cleaning: Dust and vacuum your home regularly using HEPA filters to trap tiny particles that might irritate your kids' respiratory system.
4. Monitor Air Quality: Consider purchasing an air quality monitor if you're concerned about the levels of pollutants in your flat.

If these steps don’t resolve the issues, it may be wise to call for a professional inspection. In Dubai and UAE, many companies specialize in indoor air quality assessments. You can reach out to Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email them at hello@saniservice.com for expert advice tailored to your specific situation.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is crucial for health and comfort, especially in a place like Dubai where the climate can be challenging.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 10, 2026 5:04 am