Could high humidity cause mold and asthma?« Back to Previous Page

After the rain last month, I noticed a musty smell lingering in my bedroom closet, and it’s been bothering me. My son has also started to cough more frequently, which makes me wonder if our humidity levels are too high or if there's mold growing unnoticed. Could this be related to his asthma, and is there something I can do on my own to clean up the problem, or should we seek professional help?
Posted by Giulia Gonzalez
Asked on January 2, 2026 11:15 pm
0
High humidity can indeed cause mold growth and exacerbate asthma symptoms. In the UAE, particularly in Dubai, high humidity levels after rain events are common. This can lead to an increase in moisture content within your home, providing a perfect breeding ground for molds.

In your case, noticing a musty smell in your bedroom closet is a clear sign that you might be dealing with excess moisture and potential mold growth. Mold spores thrive in environments where humidity levels exceed 60%. Given the recent rain, it's likely that your humidity levels are higher than normal, especially if you're not using dehumidifiers or air conditioners effectively.

For your son, who has asthma, exposure to mold can trigger symptoms such as coughing. Asthma is a chronic condition where the airways in the lungs narrow and swell, making breathing difficult. Mold spores can irritate these airways, leading to exacerbations of asthma symptoms.

To address this issue on your own, you should start by improving ventilation in your home. Open windows when possible, especially after rain events, to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce moisture levels. Using dehumidifiers or air conditioners can also help lower humidity levels significantly.

Inspect areas where mold is likely to grow, such as corners of closets, bathrooms, and around pipes. Clean these areas with a mixture of water and detergent or use a solution specifically designed for mold removal. Always wear gloves and ensure the area is well-ventilated during cleaning.

However, if you find extensive mold growth or if your efforts don't improve the situation, it's advisable to seek professional help. In Dubai, companies like Saniservice can provide comprehensive mold inspection and remediation services. They will assess the extent of the issue, remove any existing mold, and provide recommendations for long-term solutions.

Remember, while you can take steps on your own, a professional’s expertise is invaluable when dealing with persistent or widespread mold problems. For immediate assistance, you can call 800-MOLDS (800-66537) or email hello@saniservice.com to schedule an inspection and treatment.

Taking these actions now can help prevent further damage to your home and ensure a healthier living environment for yourself and especially for your son.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on January 6, 2026 3:17 am