Is musty smell in hallway harmful to children?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy rain last month, I noticed a persistent musty smell coming from the hallway leading to my children's bedrooms. The problem seems to be worse during the night when it’s cooler. It's really concerning because they've been coughing more frequently lately and I’m worried about their health. How urgent is this issue and what should I do about cleaning the area?
Posted by Megan Moore
Asked on January 16, 2026 1:37 pm
0
The musty smell in your hallway could indeed be indicative of a moisture-related issue which might pose potential risks to the health of your children. The UAE, including Dubai, has strict regulations regarding indoor air quality and mold growth due to its climate. According to the Abu Dhabi Environment Agency (ADEA) and Dubai Municipality, dampness and mold can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems.

The musty smell is commonly associated with mold or mildew growth, especially in areas where there's been water damage from rain leaks or high humidity. This issue seems worse at night when the air cools down, suggesting that moisture might be trapped in certain parts of your home. This can create an environment conducive to mold growth.

Given the symptoms your children are experiencing such as increased coughing, it would be prudent to take immediate action and consider a professional inspection by a certified environmental consultant or hygienist. In Dubai, you could contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (800-66537) for expert evaluation and remediation.

To address the issue yourself before calling in professionals:
1. Check for any visible signs of water damage or mold around the hallway and children's bedrooms.
2. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows if weather permits, and use exhaust fans to remove excess moisture from bathrooms and kitchens.
3. Use dehumidifiers to reduce humidity levels, especially during cooler nights.
4. Clean surfaces with a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to kill mold spores.

Remember, while these steps can help mitigate the situation temporarily, they are not a substitute for professional advice. The health of your children should be prioritized, and early intervention could prevent further complications. Please consider calling Saniservice at 800-MOLDS or emailing hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection as soon as possible.

The sooner you address this issue, the better it will be for the health and comfort of your family in Dubai's climate.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 22, 2026 5:32 am