Could mold in clothes cause my kids' cough?« Back to Previous Page

Yes, mold on clothes can absolutely be the cause of your children's persistent coughs and sore throats. The dampness you've noticed is a key indicator. In Dubai's climate, with high humidity and year-round AC use creating temperature differentials, wardrobes on exterior walls are common sites for condensation and mold growth. The black and green fuzzy spots are likely actively releasing spores into the air, which are then inhaled.

The most common reaction to inhaling these spores is precisely what you're describing: upper respiratory irritation, chronic coughing, and a sore throat. Children are often more susceptible to these effects. The first step is to remove the source. Bag the moldy clothes immediately and take them out of the home to be professionally cleaned or discarded. Thoroughly clean the wardrobe with a vinegar solution and improve air circulation in that room; a dehumidifier can be very effective.

Given the symptoms have persisted for a month and you have visible growth, a professional inspection is strongly recommended. They can identify the extent of the issue, often hidden behind units or in walls, and perform air quality testing to confirm the spore types and concentrations. This is crucial for determining the right remediation approach to properly resolve the environment causing your children's symptoms.