Could hotel cleaning affect our air quality?« Back to Previous Page

Since moving into our new apartment on the fourth floor of a high-rise building in Dubai last year, we’ve always noticed a faint but persistent odor coming from the hotel across the street. It’s especially noticeable after rain or when they clean rooms during the night. Lately, my son has started coughing more than usual and I’m starting to wonder if it might be due to something from that hotel seeping over. Has anyone else experienced this? Could it really be the cleaning chemicals or dust from their work affecting our air quality?
Posted by Lauren Scott
Asked on December 22, 2025 4:46 am
0
Could Hotel Cleaning Affect Our Air Quality?

Absolutely! The hotel situated across your apartment might indeed be the source of that persistent odor and even your son's increased coughing. In Dubai, we're familiar with the challenges posed by such situations, especially considering the high-rise living environment.

In the UAE, the air quality can be greatly impacted by factors like nearby industrial activities, construction, or in this case, the daily operations of a hotel. Hotels operate 24/7 and cleaning takes place late at night when residents might not notice. The use of strong chemicals for deep cleaning tasks can lead to odors that linger and potentially affect indoor air quality.

Here’s what you need to know: hotels typically use a variety of cleaning agents, some of which are known to emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs can contribute to poor indoor air quality, causing discomfort or even health issues for residents living nearby. Furthermore, the dust and particles generated from such activities can travel through ventilation systems or open windows, especially during rainy weather when outdoor conditions might allow these pollutants to disperse more easily.

If you're experiencing symptoms like coughing or other respiratory issues since moving into your apartment, it's crucial to take action. You could start by checking if the hotel is adhering to local regulations such as those set out in UAE’s Building and Construction Regulations (FZ-5) which cover indoor air quality standards for commercial spaces.

For a more definitive assessment of the situation, I recommend contacting an expert for professional inspection. Local services like Saniservice can conduct thorough testing to identify any pollutants or sources that might be affecting your living environment. They provide comprehensive solutions and are well-equipped with expertise in such matters.

In the meantime, here are some tips:
• Ensure your home is properly ventilated; keep windows open during cleaner weather.
• Use air purifiers equipped with HEPA filters to help remove particles from the air.
• Consider installing a dehumidifier if you notice increased moisture levels which can support mold growth.

Should you decide to proceed, do not hesitate to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for more information and guidance. Remember, your health and comfort are paramount, so taking proactive steps is key!

Hope this helps and wish you the best in improving your living conditions!
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 23, 2025 3:12 pm