Black mold behind wardrobe causing coughs: DIY or professional?« Back to Previous Page

The black spots you found behind the wardrobe, combined with the persistent coughs, strongly suggest a mould issue. Given Dubai's high humidity, especially post-summer, and the year-round reliance on AC, this is a common problem in villas here. The constant dehumidifier running is a clear sign your indoor humidity levels are too high.

For a small patch (under one square foot), a DIY approach with a detergent solution can be attempted. However, vinegar and bleach are not recommended; bleach only bleaches the surface and doesn't kill the roots, while vinegar's effectiveness is limited. The real concern is what you can't see. Mould spreads microscopic spores, and the visible spot is often just the tip of the iceberg, likely growing deep into the plasterboard or behind the skirting.

With children experiencing respiratory symptoms, the priority is identifying the type of mould and the full extent of the contamination. A professional inspection is strongly advised. They use moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden moisture sources and can take samples for lab analysis to identify the species, which determines the appropriate remediation protocol. In many cases, the wall material must be carefully removed and replaced to fully resolve the issue. The goal is to fix the moisture problem first—often poor exterior sealing or internal condensation—then safely remove the contaminated materials to stop the spores affecting your indoor air.