Could old clothes be harboring mold?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell coming from the closet in our guest room. The area is rarely used but I keep it clean and tidy. My partner has been experiencing headaches and my daughter has had persistent coughing since we moved some old clothes into that space two weeks ago. Could this be related to mold or dust?
Posted by Mansoor Al-Mansour
Asked on January 27, 2026 11:00 am
0
Could old clothes be harboring mold? Absolutely. Mold loves dark, damp places – and your guest room closet could fit the bill. Especially considering it's rarely used and you've noticed a musty smell since the rain last month.

In dubai/UAE, we see similar issues as humidity levels can be high during our rainy season. Mold thrives in warm, humid environments like closets or storage areas that are not well-ventilated. When old clothes are stored in such conditions, they provide an ideal substrate for mold growth.

The symptoms your partner is experiencing – headaches – and your daughter's persistent coughing since moving some of those old clothes could indeed be related to exposure to mold spores. Mold can produce allergens and irritants that may lead to respiratory issues like coughs, especially in children or people with pre-existing health conditions.

To address this issue, I strongly recommend a professional inspection by calling 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or emailing hello@saniservice.com. They can conduct a thorough assessment of your closet and surrounding areas to determine if mold is present and how it can be safely removed.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take:
1. Wear protective gear such as gloves and a mask when handling old clothes.
2. Open windows or use an air purifier to improve ventilation in the area.
3. Ensure good airflow by not storing too many items in tight spaces.
4. Dry out any moisture spots with a dehumidifier.

Remember, mold can be tricky to eliminate completely without proper expertise and equipment. So, don’t hesitate to seek professional help right away.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 30, 2026 4:47 pm